Scan the QR Code

When a user sets up multi-factor authentication in WS_FTP Server, the server generates a unique secret key for that user. This key is then encoded into a QR code. The QR code is then displayed on the setup page for the user to scan with their authenticator app.

When you generate a temporary PIN using the QR code, it is like sharing a secret about your account that only you and WS_FTP Server know. The QR code (or text key) is used to create a temporary PIN for you.

To enable 2FA (two-factor authentication), you must install an an authenticator app on your smartphone or mobile device.

1.

Scan the QR Code
  • Open an authenticator app on a trusted device.
  • Click Add Account > Scan QR code.
  • Point your camera at the QR code displayed in WS_FTP Server. If you cannot use your camera, see Use the Text String Key section below.

2.

Get the One-Time Code

The authenticator app generates a temporary PIN for WS_FTP Server. This PIN is your verification code.

Authenticator apps refresh the temporary PIN every 30 seconds. It is best to use the code immediately.

3.

Enter the Verification Code

Type the verification code into the Enter Verification Code text box and click Verify.

The multi-factor handshake is complete.

You verified your identity to WS_FTP Server by two distinct methods.

Use the Text String Key

If you cannot scan the QR code, you can share the shared secret with the authenticator app as a string of characters.

  1. Click Show key link.

    WS_FTP Server presents the text string key you can use instead of the QR code.

  2. In your authenticator app, click Add Account > Enter a setup key.
  3. Enter the key displayed by WS_FTP Server into the authenticator app.

    The authenticator app generates your temporary PIN. This is your WS_FTP Server Verification Code.