What is an authenticator app?

An authenticator app is a mobile application that provides extra security for your online accounts by generating random one-time codes. They are used for accessing online accounts with multi-factor authentication enabled, such as Employer Online.

Authenticator apps are generally considered more secure than receiving a code by SMS or email.1 Microsoft Authenticator and Google Authenticator are examples of popular and free authenticator apps.

Find out how to download an authenticator app.

1. Source: Australian Signals Directorate’s Australian Cybersecurity Centre, Protect yourself: multi-factor authentication, accessed July 2025.

Page last updated 27 October 2025