Setting Up Two-Factor Authentication

Why Enable Two-Factor Authentication?

Two-factor authentication (2FA) provides an additional layer of security beyond your password. Even if your password is compromised through a data breach or phishing attack, an attacker cannot access your Server Scout account without the second factor—a unique code generated by your mobile device. Given that your monitoring dashboard contains sensitive information about your server infrastructure, we strongly recommend enabling 2FA for all accounts, especially those with admin privileges.

Prerequisites

Before setting up 2FA, you'll need to install an authenticator app on your mobile device. We recommend any of these TOTP-compatible applications:

• Google Authenticator (iOS/Android)
• Authy (iOS/Android/Desktop)
• Microsoft Authenticator (iOS/Android)
• 1Password (with built-in authenticator)
• Any other TOTP-compatible authenticator app

These apps generate time-based one-time passwords that rotate every 30 seconds, ensuring secure access to your account.

Setting Up 2FA

Follow these steps to enable two-factor authentication on your Server Scout account:

1. Access your account settings

- Log into your Server Scout dashboard at app.serverscout.ie - Click on your profile icon in the top-right corner - Select "Account Settings" from the dropdown menu

1. Enable 2FA

- Navigate to the "Security" section - Click the "Enable Two-Factor Authentication" button - You'll see a QR code displayed on screen

1. Configure your authenticator app

- Open your chosen authenticator app on your mobile device - Tap the "+" or "Add Account" button - Scan the QR code displayed on your Server Scout screen - Your app will automatically add Server Scout and begin generating codes

1. Verify the setup

- Enter the current 6-digit verification code from your authenticator app - Click "Confirm Setup" to complete the process - Your 2FA is now active

Backup Codes

During the setup process, Server Scout will display a set of backup codes. Save these immediately in a secure location such as a password manager or secure note-taking app. These one-time codes are crucial—they're your only way to access your account if you lose your mobile device or cannot access your authenticator app.

Each backup code can only be used once, and you'll receive new codes if you need to regenerate them through your account settings.

Logging In with 2FA

Once 2FA is enabled, your login process will include an additional step:

1. Enter your email address and password as usual
2. Click "Sign In"
3. You'll be prompted for a 6-digit authentication code
4. Open your authenticator app and enter the current code for Server Scout
5. Complete your login

Remember that codes rotate every 30 seconds, so if a code doesn't work, wait for the next one to generate.

Managing 2FA Settings

Regenerating Backup Codes

If you've used several backup codes or want fresh ones for security reasons:

1. Go to Account Settings > Security
2. Click "View Backup Codes"
3. Select "Generate New Codes"
4. Save the new codes securely and destroy the old ones

Disabling 2FA

If you need to disable two-factor authentication:

1. Navigate to Account Settings > Security
2. Click "Disable Two-Factor Authentication"
3. Enter your current password and a 2FA code to verify
4. Confirm the action

Note: We strongly advise against disabling 2FA unless absolutely necessary, particularly for admin accounts that have access to server configurations and monitoring settings.

Best Practices

• Enable 2FA for all team members, especially those with admin privileges
• Keep your backup codes secure and accessible
• Consider using Authy or similar apps that support cloud backup for easier device transitions
• Regularly review your account security settings

If you encounter any issues setting up 2FA, our AI support bot is available 24/7 at app.serverscout.ie and typically responds within a minute with relevant troubleshooting steps.