Official path
More → Settings → Accounts Center → Password and security → Two-factor authentication → Authentication app Before you start
- Use the Instagram mobile app and sign in first.
- Make sure the account is already logged in on the device you will use to configure 2FA.
- Have an authenticator app ready for QR code scanning or key linking.
Setup steps
- 01
Open Accounts Center
From More, open Settings, then See more in Accounts Center, then Password and security.
- 02
Choose the authenticator method
Open Two-factor authentication, select the account, then choose Authentication app.
- 03
Scan the QR code or link with a key
Follow the in-app instructions to scan the QR code or use key linking, then enter the 6-digit code to finish.
- 04
Save backup codes
Open Additional Methods, then Backup Codes, and save the code set before you sign out.
Recovery and backup
Refresh the code set
While logged in, open Accounts Center, then Password and security, then Two-factor authentication, and use Get new codes when needed.
Keep the login session alive
Instagram only lets you view or refresh backup codes when you are already logged in.
Treat trusted-device prompts carefully
Do not trust a device you do not control, especially on shared hardware.
Common problems
Mobile app requirement
Authentication app setup is done in the Instagram Android or iPhone app.
Logged-in prerequisite
You must already be logged in to configure 2FA or refresh backup codes.
First device matters
In multi-device use, the first device must finish setup before the others can follow.