Google Authenticator

Website

support.google.com

$ Details

free

Categories

#Identity And Access Management #Authentication #Multi-factor Authentication #Two Factor Authentication

OAuth2

Website

en.wikipedia.org

$ Details

Categories

#Identity Provider #Identity And Access Management #SSO #Development

Google Authenticator features and specs

• Enhanced Security
  Google Authenticator adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second factor of authentication, reducing the risk of unauthorized access even if your password is compromised.
• Offline Access
  The app does not require an internet connection to generate codes, making it reliable in situations where connectivity is a concern.
• Compatibility
  Google Authenticator is compatible with a wide range of services and accounts, providing a versatile solution for multi-factor authentication (MFA).
• Free of Charge
  The application is free to use, offering robust security features without any financial investment.
• Ease of Use
  Setup and usage are straightforward, making it accessible to users without technical expertise.

Possible disadvantages of Google Authenticator

• Device Dependence
  If you lose your device, gaining access to your accounts can become challenging, particularly if you haven't backed up or used alternative methods.
• No Cloud Sync
  Google Authenticator does not offer a built-in feature for cloud backups, making it difficult to transfer codes to a new device.
• Single Device Limitation
  The app only works on a single device at a time, which can be inconvenient if you manage multiple devices.
• No Biometric Lock
  The app lacks advanced security features such as biometric locks, which are present in some other authenticator apps.
• Limited Recovery Options
  In case of losing access to the app, recovery options rely heavily on the user having access to backup codes, which might not always be accessible.

OAuth2 features and specs

• Delegated Access
  OAuth2 allows users to grant third-party applications limited access to their resources without sharing their credentials.
• Enhanced Security
  By using access tokens with defined scopes and expiration times, OAuth2 reduces the risk of exposing user credentials and allows precise control over resource access.
• Scalability
  OAuth2 is suitable for a wide range of applications, from mobile and web apps to connected devices, allowing seamless integration across platforms.
• User Experience
  OAuth2 enhances user experience by enabling single sign-on (SSO) capabilities, allowing users to authenticate across multiple services with a single set of credentials.

Possible disadvantages of OAuth2

• Complex Implementation
  Implementing OAuth2 can be complex, especially for developers new to the protocol, as it involves understanding various flows, token management, and security considerations.
• Security Challenges
  If not implemented correctly, OAuth2 can introduce security vulnerabilities, such as authorization code interception, token leakage, or improper redirect URI handling.
• Fragmentation
  The OAuth2 specification allows for a lot of flexibility, which can lead to fragmentation and inconsistent implementations across different providers.
• Token Management
  OAuth2 requires careful management of tokens, including their expiration, revocation, and storage, which can add complexity to application development.

How to Use Google Authenticator

More videos:

Understanding How OAuth2 Works