Proton launches new free open-source Authenticator with E2E encryption on all platforms
Proton has launched Proton Authenticator, a new open source two-factor authentication app with privacy and security in mind. The app is available today for free across iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, and Linux. Users can generate time-based 2FA codes for signing into a range of services, with all sensitive data protected using end-to-end encryption. These protections extend to both syncing and automatic encrypted backups, which work when users are logged in with a Proton account.
Proton Authenticator works entirely offline, letting users access their codes without an internet connection. Accounts from other apps can be imported or exported at any time. For added device security, it supports local locking with a PIN or biometric authentication, depending on the hardware.
Although Proton already offers Proton Pass as a password manager, the company says it wants to keep its new authenticator app as a standalone option for those who prefer separate tools for managing 2FA. The company highlights its open source model in contrast to competitors that are closed source or include ads and trackers, and points out common gaps like lack of encrypted backups and export options. The app will remain free, as part of Proton’s belief that privacy should be a right, not a premium.
- Authenticator
- Free • Open Source
External links
- Introducing Proton Authenticator: Secure 2FA, your wayProton • Official source
- Proton Pass' Thread on X@ProtonPrivacy on X • Official source
- Proton releases a new app for two-factor authenticationTechCrunch
- Proton launches 2FA app for Windows, iOS, Android, and moreWindows Central
- Proton Introduces an Authenticator AppThurrott.com
Comments
Standalone app is a welcome change
we already had multiple, cross platform, offline and open source apps for this. in fact the 2FA feature was a part of premium account in proton pass up until now. (while alternatives with the the above advantages existed already) so not only proton isn't adding any value by this but it also shows that their slogan is just for advertisement, and they only care about it as a last step when the the product is already finished, in the market and thousands of people are using it.
It's concern that proton is trying to be an everything platform instead of improving their existing services. I would rather choose bitwarden auth or aegis for this.
It's good to have various options available, but personally I wouldn't put all my eggs in one basket/company. Ente for Auth, Proton for email, Bitwarden for passwords. Good news though!
I wouldn't trust Proton. Use Aegis Authenticator instead.
Nice alternative to Ente Auth.
One day, there will be a Linux Proton Drive app, but GTA 6 will probably come out first.