Here are some useful questions to ask before you set up your 2-step login methods.
“Which devices do I want to use to access my account?”
Do you normally log in to your account on your smartphone? Do you use a tablet? Do you use a computer? Or do you need to use all of these? Your security key and passkey options are limited to what’s compatible with your device and browser. If you’re not sure, check the support documentation for the specific method you want to use, or ask the manufacturer’s support department.
It might not be possible to set up a security key or passkey method that works all your devices. If this happens, you’ll need to set up multiple security keys/passkeys or use an authenticator app.
“What devices might I want to use in the future?”
Think about what kinds of devices you might want to use in the future. Are you considering upgrading your smartphone? Are you switching from one operating system to another, such as moving from iPhone to Android?
As we said above, not all security keys will work with all devices. You’ll need to check first.
If you upgrade or change to a new device, you might lose the passkeys you’ve registered with the previous device. You can try to fix this problem by using a passkey option that syncs with your Google or Apple iCloud account. If all else fails, it’s important to have another backup option set up first, such as an authenticator app on a different device.
“What security key/passkey methods can I afford?”
Unfortunately, not all of these options are free. A physical security key (such as YubiKey) must be pre-purchased from a retailer, and they can be expensive. If you’d prefer not to spend that money, there are also other options.
Passkeys are often built in to your existing smartphone, tablet, or computer - they’re included as part of the product. This means they could also be a good option if you’re looking for something affordable.
If neither of these are an option, many authenticator apps (such as Google Authenticator) are available to download free of charge and support many more devices than security keys/passkeys. There are also other paid options that might give you more convenience or flexibility.
“What will I do if I lose/upgrade my device?”
It’s important to consider what might happen if you lose your smartphone, tablet, or computer, or even upgrade to a newer model. If you upgrade or change to a new device, you might lose the passkeys you’ve registered with the previous device. You can try to fix this problem by using a passkey option that syncs with your Google or Apple iCloud account. If all else fails, it’s important to have another backup option set up first, such as an authenticator app on a different device.
“How will I safeguard my physical security key?”
If you’re using a physical security key such as a USB stick or NFC chip, consider how you’ll store it. Some people carry their security key with them on a keychain, while others might keep it somewhere safe at home.
If possible, we recommend both options - a security key you carry with you, and one you keep somewhere safe in case the original is lost. Make sure you set up both security keys with your Tryst.link account!
“Have I decided where to store my emergency recovery code?”
Your emergency recovery code is essential for logging in to your Tryst.link account if you lose access to your security keys/passkeys. Do you have somewhere safe to store this code that you can access in the case of an emergency?
A common approach is to print it or write it in a notebook. Having the code available on paper is a good idea, in case you lose or replace your digital device. Store it with your passport, birth certificate and other sensitive documents.
⚠️ Never share this code with anybody - not even with someone who claims to be a representative of Tryst.link. Being asked to share this code is a common way that hackers and scammers might try to get access to your account.
How to set 2-step login
Now that you’ve figured out which 2-step login methods work best for you, it’s time to set them up on your Tryst.link account. Follow the links below to learn how:
How do I set up an authenticator app for 2-step login?