Using DW Cloud 2FA Backup Codes

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Affected Roles: Owner, Administrator

Related Digital Watchdog VMS Apps: DW Spectrum IPVMS

Software Version: DW Spectrum IPVMS v5.1

Last Edit: November 15, 2024

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Two-Factor Authentication Security

When the Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) security feature is enabled for a DW Cloud account, a list of single-use backup codes is provided. These backup codes are meant to be used in the event of forgetting your DW Cloud password and/or if you do not have access to a mobile authentication application.

This article will outline how to use the 2FA backup codes to access your DW Cloud account when access to your mobile authentication application is not possible.

Using Two-Factor Backup Codes

Part 1 – Generate Backup Codes

When 2FA is first enabled, a list of backup codes is provided. Keep these backup codes stored somewhere safe in case they are needed.

You can request a new list of codes to be created in the DW Cloud Web Portal as needed. To do so:

**NOTE: If you lose your backup codes and cannot log in to your DW Cloud account, you may submit a request form at https://digital-watchdog.com/2FAResetRequest/.

Open your Account Settings and select the Security menu.

In the Backup Codes section, click on “Generate Backup Codes”. A list of new single-use backup codes will then be created.

Part 2 – Using Backup Codes

If you do not have access to a two-factor authentication application, such as Google Authenticator or Microsoft Authenticator, to authorize connections from your mobile device, you can use one of your backup codes for authorization.

Upon entering your email and password for DW Cloud, you will be prompted to enter a Verification Code. If you do not have access to an authenticator application, you can click on “No access to authentication app”.

This option is available for the DW Spectrum Desktop Client, DW Spectrum Mobile application, and DW Cloud Web Portal.