Does Notion offer two-factor authentication?

Yes, Notion does offer two-factor authentication (2FA), providing an essential security layer that protects your account from unauthorized access. This feature requires you to provide two forms of verification when logging in: your password and a time-sensitive code generated by an authenticator app.

To enable 2FA in Notion, navigate to your account settings by clicking on "Settings & members" in your sidebar, then select "My account." Look for the "Login & security" section where you'll find the two-factor authentication option. Notion supports authenticator apps like Google Authenticator, Authy, or 1Password, which generate six-digit codes that refresh every 30 seconds.

The setup process is straightforward. After clicking "Set up 2FA," Notion will display a QR code that you scan with your chosen authenticator app. Once configured, you'll need to enter the generated code along with your password each time you log in from a new device or browser.

Enabling 2FA significantly enhances your account security, especially important given that Notion often stores sensitive business information, personal notes, and collaborative projects. Without 2FA, your account relies solely on password protection, which can be compromised through data breaches, phishing attacks, or weak password practices.

However, there are some considerations to keep in mind. You'll need to have your authenticator app accessible whenever logging in, which can be inconvenient if you frequently switch devices or lose access to your phone. Additionally, if you lose access to your authenticator app without backup codes, account recovery can become complicated.

Notion also provides backup codes when you set up 2FA, which serve as one-time passwords if you can't access your authenticator app. It's crucial to save these codes in a secure location, as they're your safety net for account access.

For teams and workspaces handling sensitive information, enabling 2FA should be considered mandatory rather than optional. Many organizations require 2FA as part of their security policies, and Notion's implementation meets these professional standards.

While the extra step during login might seem inconvenient, the security benefits far outweigh this minor hassle. Given the increasing frequency of cyber attacks and data breaches, two-factor authentication represents a simple yet effective way to protect your valuable Notion content and maintain the integrity of your digital workspace.