2FA Showdown: UNLOQ vs Google Authenticator
A short comparison between Google Authenticator and UNLOQ as a 2FA alternative for casual users.
Implementing Two-factor Authentication is a journey that begins with awareness. Realizing that one day, confidential data may fall into the mighty internet black whole with no way to undo it is a pretty strong incentive for making use of technology’s wonders.
In all seriousness, it’s really important that you take advantage of 2FA whenever this is an option. The next step in your journey towards two-factor authentication’s cozy umbrella is scouting for the RIGHT solution. Right for your needs, that is.
Our 2FA Showdown series is looking to bring a bit of light on existing solutions out there so you can take the right decision.
PS: I’ll try to be as unbiased as possible.
Comparing UNLOQ and Google Authenticator
1. Security
UNLOQ
- Time-sensitive one-time passwords (TOTP).
- You can restrict access to the mobile app with a Fingerprint, PIN, or both.
- All user data including backups is AES-256 encrypted and it uses TLS on all communication. Your data is securely saved with trusted providers like Amazon Web Services and Bahnhoff.
- A device deactivation PIN can be set. This will be requested when you make a Device Deactivation request.
Google Authenticator
- Time-sensitive one-time passwords (TOTP).
- Access to the mobile app cannot be restricted.
2. Backup & Restore
UNLOQ
- Tokens are fully backed up in the UNLOQ account and kept encrypted.
- In case of losing, resetting or replacing the phone, all tokens can be restored right back into the app.
Google Authenticator
- GA does not support token backup.
- Restoring the tokens is done manually by re-gaining access to the accounts using the backup codes and then setting 2FA again.
3. User Experience
UNLOQ
- To use the mobile app and all the features, you need to create an account when setting up the mobile app for the first time.
- Adding a new application to the app is done by scanning the QR code you receive.
- Does not support manual entry of a new application.
- Works offline.
- Supports authentication through push notifications and e-mail link (available for websites that implement UNLOQ as their main authentication method).
Google Authenticator
- Doesn’t require you to create an account.
- Adding a new application to the app is done by scanning the QR code you receive.
- GA also offers the possibility to manually add a new application, besides scanning the bar code.
- Works offline.
4. Pricing
UNLOQ
- Free
Google Authenticator
- Free
5. Screenshots
UNLOQ
Google Authenticator
Wrapping up
Regardless of the 2FA app you choose to for increasing the security of your online accounts, you are on the right track simply for deciding to go down this road. Any additional layer of security drastically decreases the chances for your account to be hacked. At the end of the day, it’s just a matter of finding the right app for you.
Support and Feedback
Curious to know more? Get in touch with us on our contact page or at team@unloq.io.
Learn more about us: https://unloq.io/
