> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://developer.z-api.io/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Two-factor authentication

> Add an extra layer of security to the Z-API panel with two-factor authentication

## Two-Factor Security

Implementing an additional authentication step, known as two-factor authentication (2FA), is a vital security layer to protect the Z-API panel against unauthorized access and cyber threats.

***

## Enabling the feature

<Steps>
  <Step title="Access the Z-API Panel">
    Log in to the Z-API panel with your credentials.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Navigate to the Security Page">
    In the Z-API panel, find the "Security" option in the navigation menu.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Set up Two-Factor Authentication">
    Locate the "Two-Factor Authentication" option and click "Set Up Now". A QR code will be generated for synchronization with authenticator apps such as 1Password, Google Authenticator, or Microsoft Authenticator.
  </Step>
</Steps>

***

## How it works

After setting up, follow the flow below to authenticate:

1. Open the authenticator app on your phone.
2. Add the account manually or scan the generated QR code.
3. Link your Z-API account to your device.
4. Each time you log in to the Z-API panel, you will be asked to provide a one-time code generated by the authenticator app.
5. The code regenerates every few seconds and is unique per account.

***

## Benefits of using 2FA

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Additional Protection">
    The password alone is not enough to access the panel. Even if someone discovers your password, they will still need the code generated by the authenticator.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Unauthorized Access Prevention">
    Access requires possession of the linked mobile device, significantly hindering unauthorized access attempts.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Sensitive Data Security">
    Protects confidential information stored in the Z-API panel with an extra verification layer.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Security Standards Compliance">
    Meets industry security requirements and current regulations.
  </Card>
</CardGroup>