Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Last updated: April 21, 2026

Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security to your Switchboard account by requiring a one-time code from your phone in addition to your password when you log in. If someone guesses / hacks your password, they will need one more layer of authentication before being able to access your Switchboard account.

If you don't have one already, you'll need a free authenticator app installed on your phone. Any standard Time-based One-Time Password (TOTP) app works, including:

Setting up 2FA with your Switchboard Account

  1. At log-in, you will be prompted to set up 2FA. If you don't see the prompt, you can go directly to the setup at Account Settings → Security.

  2. Open your authenticator app and scan the QR code displayed on screen.

    • If you can't scan the QR code, click Enter code manually to get a text string you can type into your app instead.

  3. Your authenticator app will generate a 6-digit code. Enter it in the confirmation field and click Verify.

  4. Save your backup codes somewhere secure (like a password manager). These let you access your account if you lose your phone.

2FA is now active on your account. You'll be prompted for a code each time you log in.

Disabling 2FA on Your Account

  1. Go to Account Settings → Security.

  2. Under Two-Factor Authentication, click Disable.

  3. Confirm your password when prompted.

Note: If any organizations you are in requires 2FA, you won't be able to disable it. See below.

Organization-Level 2FA Requirements

Organization admins can require all members to use 2FA. If you belong to an organization with this setting enabled, you'll be prompted to set up 2FA the next time you log in — even if you haven't enabled it on your own account.

If you're an Org Admin and want to require 2FA for your organization:

  1. Go to Organization Settings → Security.

  2. Toggle on Require two-factor authentication.

  3. Members will be prompted to set up 2FA on their next login.

Troubleshooting

My code isn't working. Authenticator apps are time-sensitive. Make sure your phone's date and time are set to automatic/network time. A clock that's even a few minutes off will cause codes to fail.

I lost access to my authenticator app. Use one of the backup codes you saved when you set up 2FA. If you don't have those, contact Switchboard Support to verify your identity and regain access.

I'm being required to set up 2FA but don't want to. If an organization you belong to requires 2FA, it can't be bypassed. Reach out to your Organization Admin if you have questions about the policy.