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Set up Google 2FA

Setting up 2-step verification on your Google account

Follow these steps before the enrollment deadline. Setup takes about 3 minutes.

1

Go to your Google Account security settings

Open a browser and navigate to myaccount.google.com/security — or click your profile photo → Manage your Google Account → Security tab.

 
 
 
myaccount.google.com/security
Account
JS
Home
Personal info
Security
Privacy
How you sign in to Google

2-Step Verification

Off — click to turn on

Password

Last changed 3 months ago

Tip: Make sure you're signed into your district Google account (your email should end in @[district].org or similar), not a personal Gmail account.
2

Click "2-Step Verification" and start setup

You'll see an overview page explaining what 2SV is. Click the blue "Get started" button to begin.

 
 
 
myaccount.google.com/signinoptions/two-step-verification
Protect your account with 2-Step Verification
Add a second step to verify your identity when you sign in, in case your password is stolen.
3

Choose your verification method

Google will suggest the best option based on your devices. Google Prompt (a tap on your phone) is the easiest and most recommended method.

 
 
 
myaccount.google.com — choose second step
Choose your second step

Google prompt Recommended

Get a prompt on your phone to approve sign-ins

Authenticator app

Use the Google Authenticator app for codes

Text message (SMS)

Receive a 6-digit code by text

Tip: If your school uses shared/classroom devices, the Authenticator app or SMS may be more reliable than Google Prompt, since prompts go to a personal phone you carry with you.
4

Approve the Google Prompt on your phone

After selecting Google Prompt, Google sends a test notification to your phone. Tap "Yes, it's me" to confirm your phone is set up correctly.

 
12:34 PM
G
Google · now
Sign-in attempt
Are you trying to sign in to your Google account from Chrome on Mac?
Yes, it's me
No

The notification appears in your phone's notification bar or opens the Google app automatically.

If you don't see it within 30 seconds, check that the Google or Gmail app is installed and notifications are enabled.

5

Turn on 2-Step Verification

After the test prompt succeeds, you'll be returned to the browser. Click "Turn On" to activate 2SV on your account.

 
 
 
myaccount.google.com — confirm setup
Your phone was verified!
You'll now be asked for a second verification step when you sign in.
6

Save your backup codes (important!)

After turning on 2SV, Google will offer backup codes. Download or print these and store them safely — you'll need them if you lose access to your phone.

 
 
 
myaccount.google.com — backup codes
Backup codes
Each code can only be used once. Keep them somewhere safe.
4823 7291
9012 3847
5647 1928
7391 0284
2048 9173
8374 6510
Tip: Store backup codes in a secure location — like a printed copy in a locked desk drawer or a password manager. Do not save them in an unsecured document on your computer.

Need help?
Contact your IT Help Desk at sbarber@shallowaterisd.net or visit Shallowater ISD Incidentiq to submit a ticket.