Troubleshooting
Authenticator won't scan a QR code? Try these checks
Check the QR type, image size and site permissions, or use the setup key instead. A few checks can save repeated scans.
Make sure the QR belongs to the website's authenticator setup, then check image clarity and page permissions. If scanning still fails, enter the setup key from that same page and return a code to finish enrollment.
In this article
Is this an authenticator setup QR code?
Login approval, payments, web links and authenticator enrollment can all use QR codes. A perfectly readable image may still contain a format your tool does not support.
Bulk transfer QRs can also use application-specific formats. Scannability is not a promise of direct import between arbitrary tools; check the exporter's and importer's supported methods.
Enlarge the code and keep its edges visible
Keep the entire code and its surrounding quiet border visible. Avoid obstruction, glare, extreme scaling or partial screenshots. Stabilize distance and lighting before repeatedly switching apps.
On one device, consider image import or page scanning only when the tool supports it. Do not upload an enrollment QR to an online decoder or post it in a troubleshooting group.
Check website access for browser scanning
Open your browser's extension settings and check access to the current site. Browser-internal and other restricted pages may block extensions; try the website's normal settings page instead.
On a computer, use the Authenticator Cloud desktop extension to scan a setup QR code directly. On a phone, add it in the app and set up sharing or Pro sync as needed.
Add the setup key manually instead
Choose the service's manual setup option, verify the account and enter its setup key in the authenticator. An email code, recovery code or current rotating code is not a replacement for that key.
Return a generated code to the original service to finish enrollment. Seeing a new entry in a list alone does not prove the service enabled it. Save recovery material after successful confirmation.
References
See the official guides above for detailed setup instructions.
Add an entry with the Authenticator Cloud desktop extension and keep its code handy for later sign-ins.
