Virtual MFA Device

Enabling Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) on AWS

Note: Before proceeding, ensure you are logged in to AWS using the root user.

Enable Virtual MFA Device through AWS Management Console

To enhance the security of your AWS account, you can set up Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). This adds an extra layer of protection by requiring a second form of verification in addition to your password. Follow these steps to set up and activate a virtual MFA device:

  1. Sign in to the AWS Management Console.

  2. In the upper right corner of the console, you will see your account name. Click on it and select My Security Credentials.

    My Security Credentials

  3. Expand the Multi-factor authentication (MFA) section and select Assign MFA.

    Assign MFA

  4. In the Select MFA Device interface:

    • Enter a Device Name.
    • Select MFA Device as the Authenticator App.
    • Select Next.

    Select MFA Device

  5. Install a compatible authenticator app on your smartphone. You can find a list of MFA-compatible apps here.

    MFA App List

  6. Install the authenticator extension for Google Chrome. Select Add to Chrome.

    Authenticator Extension

  7. Use the authenticator app to generate an MFA code and enter it for confirmation.

    MFA Code

  8. Perform a QR code scan using the authenticator app.

    QR Code Scan

  9. After scanning the QR code, enter the generated MFA codes into the corresponding fields.

    Enter MFA Codes

  10. Once the codes are entered, select Add MFA to complete the setup.

Add MFA

  1. Complete the additional MFA setup steps as prompted.

Additional MFA Setup

By setting up Multi-Factor Authentication, you add an extra layer of security to your AWS account, helping to protect your valuable resources and data.