How to turn off Gmail 2FA (2024)

Apart from creating a strong password, the best way to secure your Gmail account and the sensitive data in it is by activating two-factor authentication or 2FA. Although not recommended, there may be times when you need to turn it off temporarily. Here's how to do it through your smartphone, a handy Chromebook, or a laptop.

What happens after turning off Gmail 2FA?

With two-factor authentication deactivated, you only need your email and password to sign in to Gmail on any device. You don't get Google prompts on devices you're currently signed onto. The only way you'll know when someone signs in to your account is through a Google security alert email.

Turning off two-factor authentication for your Gmail account doesn't automatically make it vulnerable to hackers. Your account might remain safe if you're strategic with creating passwords. What if someone learns your password, or you get tricked by phishing? You put your Google account at risk.

Gmail is tied to your Google account, meaning changes to your security settings affect other Google services you use. Anyone who knows your password can access your Google Photos, Calendar, Drive, Docs, and other apps without needing a second authentication method. A Google passkey can help, but it doesn't prevent unauthorized sign-ins when someone knows your password. It's safer to have 2FA as a backup.

Related

How to set up two-factor authentication on your Facebook account

Two-factor authentication, also known as 2FA, helps you make sure that only you can access your account

How to turn off Gmail two-step verification on Android and iOS

Gmail's 2FA is embedded into your Google account security settings, which you can access through any Google app or web browser. Android users can access the Google account settings in over six ways, and iOS users can access it through the Gmail app. Follow the steps below:

1. Open Gmail on your phone.
2. Tap your profile picture or initials in the upper-right corner.
3. Select Manage your Google Account.

   

   

4. Select Security from the ribbon menu under your email.
5. In the How you sign in to Google section, tap 2-Step Verification.
6. Confirm your password or passkey on the next page if required.

   

7. Click Turn off, and tap Turn Off again to confirm your choice.

   

   

How to turn off Gmail 2FA using a computer

Deactivating your Google account's two-step verification on a computer isn't much different from a smartphone. Here's what it takes:

1. Visit myaccount.google.com in your favorite browser and sign in.
2. Click Security in the left navigation pane.

   

3. Select 2-Step Verification under the How you sign in to Google section.
4. Click Turn off 2-Step Verification.

   

5. Select Turn Off again to confirm your choice.

   

Turn on 2FA again to secure your Gmail account

Deactivating 2FA may make logging in to your Gmail account more straightforward, but it isn't risk-free and can make it easier for cybercriminals to gain unauthorized access to your account. It's best to turn off this security feature for only short periods. Turning on two-factor authentication is just as easy, and it will keep your account secure unless you manually turn off this feature again.