How to Enable MFA on a Free Gmail Account
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), also known as 2-Step Verification, adds an extra layer of security to your Gmail account by requiring a second form of identity verification—usually a code sent to your phone—along with your password. Here’s how to enable it:
Go to your Google Account settings:
Visit https://myaccount.google.com/ and sign in if prompted.
Navigate to Security settings:
On the left menu, click “Security.”
Start the 2-Step Verification setup:
Under the “Signing in to Google” section, find “2-Step Verification” and click “Get started.”
Follow the prompts:
Google will guide you through adding a phone number and choosing how you want to receive codes—via text message or phone call.
Verify and turn on:
After confirming your phone number, click “Turn on” to activate MFA.
For even stronger protection, you can switch from SMS codes to an app like Google Authenticator or Authy, which generates codes offline and is harder to intercept.
Why It Matters:
With phishing attacks and credential theft on the rise, enabling MFA is one of the simplest and most effective ways to secure your Gmail account.