Switch from two-step verification to two-factor authentication

Two-factor authentication is an additional layer of security for your Apple ID, designed to ensure that you are the only person who can access your account, even if someone knows your password.

Two-factor authentication is our most advanced and easy-to-use account security, and it requires you to use some of the latest iOS, macOS and iCloud features. If you are using 2-step verification, we will automatically update your account when you log in to iOS 11 or later or macOS High Sierra or later. You can also manually change your two-step verification account to two-factor authentication when following the steps below.

Confirm what function you are using

If you are not sure about setting up two-factor authentication or two-step verification, follow these steps:-

1. Log in to the page of your Apple ID account.

2. In the Security section, look for two-factor authentication or two-step verification, then see if the feature is enabled or disabled.

If two-step verification is enabled, continue with the steps to turn it off, then enable two-factor authentication. If two-factor authentication is enabled, then it is already configured.

Turn off two-step verification

Before you can activate two-factor authentication, you must turn off two-step verification. Follow these steps:

1. Log in to the page of your Apple ID account.

2. In the Security section, click Edit.

3. Click on Deactivate two-step verification. Click again to confirm.

4. Create new security questions and verify your date of birth. You will receive an email confirming that the two-step verification for your Apple ID is disabled.

5. Remember to make sure you're still connected to iCloud. You may be asked for your Apple ID password.

If you log in to your Mac with your Apple ID, you must change your Mac login password before setting up two-factor authentication.

Turn on two-factor authentication

Two-factor authentication is currently available to iCloud users with at least one device that's using iOS 9 or OS X El Capitan or later.

On your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch:

1. Go to Settings > [your name]. If you're using iOS 10.2 or earlier, go to Settings > iCloud and tap your Apple ID.
2. Tap Password & Security. If asked, enter your Apple ID password.
3. Tap Turn On Two-Factor Authentication.

On your Mac:

1. Go to Apple menu > System Preferences.
2. Click iCloud, and then click Account Details. If asked, enter your Apple ID password.
3. Click the Security tab.
4. Click Turn on Two-Factor Authentication.

Remember to make sure that you're still signed in to iCloud on each of your devices. You might be asked for your Apple ID password.