Secure your accounts with TOTPs
Time-based one-time passwords (TOTPs) are temporary codes you can generate using Proton Pass and Proton Authenticator. They're a secure method of two-factor authentication and an effective alternative to traditional passwords that can help you secure your accounts more effectively.

Start using TOTPs with Proton Pass
If you're ready to embrace 2FA and TOTPs, it doesn't have to be complicated: Proton Pass is a password manager with a built-in authenticator available for all paid plans.
- Create TOTPs directly within Proton Pass in seconds.
- Store your codes and passwords in the same end-to-end encrypted vault.
- Start using 2FA across all devices and platforms.
- Protect all of your accounts with ease.

How do TOTPs work?
Whether you're using a password manager with a built-in two-factor authenticator or a dedicated authenticator app, TOTPs work the same way: When you set up 2FA, a secret key is created and shared between your authenticator app and the service you're logging into. Then, every time you log in, the following process happens in just a few seconds.
You log into a service you've set up with 2FA and you're prompted for a code generated by your authenticator app.
You open your authenticator app and generate a unique code for the service you're logging into. The service generates a code matching the secret one it shares with your authenticator.
You return to the service and enter the code. The service checks that the code you've entered is correct, and then you can log in securely.
What are the benefits of TOTPs?
TOTPs create an extra layer of security for your online accounts without complicating the log-in process. They're an excellent alternative to traditional passwords for several reasons:
Easy to use
Logging in with a TOTP is even easier than using a password. There's nothing to memorize, just enter the code and log in.
Easy to protect
Just like your passwords, TOTPs can be safely stored and quickly accessed via your password manager or your authenticator app.
More secure than passwords
Because they're time-sensitive and generated between your device and the service you're using, TOTPs are much harder for cybercriminals to intercept than traditional passwords.
Accessible anywhere
You can use TOTPs on your phone, your tablet, or your laptop, and you can use them on any platform. Backups of your codes can be created for security or to use your TOTPs across multiples devices.
TOTPs vs passwords
Passwords | TOTP | |
|---|---|---|
Security strength? | Depends on the user | Strong by default |
Needs to be memorized? | Yes or recorded | No |
MFA? | No | Yes |
Phishing resistant? | Can be intercepted | Highly |
Time sensitive? | No | Yes |
Generate TOTPs with an authenticator app
If you want a secure, end-to-end encrypted authenticator app, Proton Authenticator is a free app available for iPhone, iPad, iPod, Apple Watch, Mac, Android, Linux and Windows. Import your existing codes and create new ones for any device, whether you're online or offline.
FAQs about time-based one-time passwords (TOTPs)
- Which websites support TOTPs?
- Which devices support TOTPs?
- Can I use a TOTP to log into my Proton Account?
- How do I create TOTPs using Proton Pass?