Proton Authenticator
BeginnerProton Authenticator is a solid Google Authenticator alternative. Proton's standalone 2FA app, free and open source. End-to-end encrypted, available on all platforms.
Information verified on July 22, 2026
Description
Proton Authenticator is a standalone 2FA app launched in July 2025. Unlike the 2FA built into Proton Pass, it stores your TOTP codes in a separate, end-to-end encrypted app. No Proton account needed. Cross-platform (iOS, Android, Windows, Mac, Linux), open source, easy import from Google Authenticator or Aegis. Separating passwords from 2FA codes adds an extra security layer.
Key features
- Encrypted cross-platform sync
- Open source
- TOTP standards compatible
- Secure backup
- Free
- Simple interface
Strengths
- + Integrated with Proton account for seamless sync
- + End-to-end encrypted backups
- + Clean interface consistent with Proton apps
Weaknesses
- − Requires a Proton account
- − Newer product, less community feedback
Recommended for
- Existing Proton users wanting integrated 2FA
- Users wanting encrypted 2FA backup in the cloud
Proton Authenticator vs Google Authenticator: the comparison
| Criterion | Proton Authenticator | Google Authenticator |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free. | Free |
| Targeted ads on your data | No | Yes (Google ad profile) |
| Source code | Proprietary | Proprietary |
| Migration difficulty | Easy (2/5) | — |
Comparison
The logical choice if you already use Proton Pass and want to separate passwords from 2FA codes. Free, cross-platform, no Proton account needed.
This topic is chapter 11 of my book
It answers these questions, among others:
- which accounts do you start with, and at what pace, to stay the course?
- are physical keys worth it, and have your passwords already leaked?
- and why is this the one project everyone wrongly puts off?
Forthcoming 22/10/2026 from Éditions Eyrolles
Frequently asked questions
How much does Proton Authenticator cost?
Free.
How do you switch from Google Authenticator to Proton Authenticator?
Estimated difficulty: Easy (2/5). Manual migration: re-scan QR codes on each service. Allow 30min to migrate all your 2FA. Recommended service list.
Who is Proton Authenticator for?
You want a secure, synced 2FA authenticator to replace Google Authenticator.
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