# Use an authenticator app with LightInventory

> Add an authenticator app as a sign-in method and enter its 6-digit code when you sign in. Each code changes every 30 seconds and works once.

Source: https://www.lightinventory.com/help/account-and-sign-in/authenticator-app · Last updated: 2026-10-30

An authenticator app on your phone shows a 6-digit code for LightInventory that changes every 30 seconds. You can use it as your second sign-in method next to a passkey. Passkeys stay the default, because they resist phishing and codes do not.

> **Note:** LightInventory is in development and not yet generally available. This page describes sign-in as designed. Step-by-step screenshots are added as each screen ships.

## Add an authenticator app

1. Open the **Account** menu and select **Security**.
2. Select **Add an authenticator app** and confirm it's you with a fresh second factor.
3. Scan the QR code with your authenticator app. If you cannot scan it, select **Copy key** and enter the key in the app instead.
4. Enter the 6-digit code the app shows and select **Confirm**.

You can also add the app as your second method in the setup wizard during your first sign-in.

## Sign in with a code

1. Sign in with Google or with your email and password.
2. Select **Use your authenticator app**.
3. Enter the current 6-digit code for LightInventory.

Each code works only once. If a code was already used, wait for the next one. If a code does not work, check that your phone's clock is set automatically, then try the current code.

## How the secret is protected

The app and LightInventory share a secret that creates the codes. We store it encrypted, with an extra layer of encryption from keys held in a key management service, as explained on the [security](/security) page.

## Owners and Admins

Organizations and roles arrive in a later release. When they do, Owners and Admins must use phishing-resistant sign-in by default, so authenticator apps are turned off for those roles unless the Owner changes the setting. See [Passkeys](/help/account-and-sign-in/passkeys).

## Related

- [Recovery codes](/help/account-and-sign-in/recovery-codes)
- [Lost a sign-in method](/help/account-and-sign-in/lost-sign-in-method)