Enable Two-Step Verification for Evernote
Yes, you can enable two-step verification (2FA) for Evernote by turning it on in your account security settings. You’ll need a smartphone with an authenticator app (like Google Authenticator or Authy), and after setup you’ll enter a six-digit code each time you sign in. This guide walks you through the exact steps, what to do if you lose your phone, and how the feature works on free vs. paid plans.
What Two-Step Verification Does
Two-step verification adds a second layer of security beyond your password. Even if someone steals or guesses your password, they still need the temporary code generated on your phone to sign in. Evernote supports two methods for receiving these codes:
- Authenticator app – generates a new six-digit code every 30 seconds (recommended).
- SMS text message – sends a code to your mobile phone each time you sign in.
Evernote also offers a backup code that you can save in a safe place – a one-time use code that lets you sign in if you lose your phone. You can generate additional backup codes from the same security settings page.
How to Enable It (Step-by-Step)
These steps apply to the current Evernote web client and desktop apps. The menu names may vary slightly by version, but the path is consistent.
- Sign in to Evernote.com in a web browser.
- Click your profile icon (top-right corner) and select Settings.
- In the left sidebar, choose Security.
- Find the Two-step verification section and click Enable.
- Choose your method: Authenticator app or SMS.
- If using an authenticator app, scan the QR code with your app and enter the six-digit code it shows.
- If using SMS, enter your phone number and type in the code sent to you.
- Once verified, Evernote will show a backup code. Write it down and store it somewhere safe – you’ll need it if you lose your phone.
- Click Confirm to finish.
After this, the next time you sign in on any device, you’ll be asked for your password and then the code from your authenticator app or text message.
What Happens When You Sign In
Once enabled, every new device or web session will require the second step. Here’s what the flow looks like:
- You enter your email and password.
- Evernote asks for the six-digit code.
- You open your authenticator app (or check your text messages) and enter the code.
- You’re signed in.
On devices you mark as trusted, you may not need to enter a code every time – Evernote will remember that device for 30 days. You can always revoke trusted-device status from the same security settings page.
What If You Lose Your Phone?
If you lose the phone that has your authenticator app, you have a few recovery options:
- Use your backup code – you can sign in once with it, then immediately generate a new one.
- Use a recovery email – Evernote can send a code to your verified email address.
- Contact Evernote support – they can help you regain access after verifying your identity.
If you use an authenticator app, you can also set up the app on a second phone or tablet as a backup – just scan the same QR code during initial setup (or use the app’s transfer feature).
Common Problems and Fixes
Here are the most frequent issues people run into and how to resolve them:
- Code not working – Make sure your phone’s time is set to automatic. Authenticator apps rely on accurate time; if the clock is off, codes will be rejected.
- Lost backup code – Go to Settings > Security and click Generate new backup code. You can do this even if you’re already signed in.
- Can’t receive SMS – Check that your phone number is correct and that you have signal. If SMS isn’t arriving, switch to an authenticator app.
- Locked out – If you can’t provide a code and don’t have a backup code, you’ll need to contact Evernote support. They may ask you to verify your identity with your account email and other details.
Free vs. Paid Plans: What’s Included?
Two-step verification is available on all Evernote plans, including the free Basic plan. There’s no extra cost for enabling it. The only difference is that some older articles may mention SMS verification being limited to paid plans – that was true years ago, but as of the current version, both authenticator app and SMS are available to everyone.
Why Bother? The Real-World Benefit
Evernote stores notes that often contain personal information, passwords, financial details, or work documents. A strong password alone is not enough – data breaches and phishing attacks are common. Two-step verification makes it significantly harder for an attacker to access your account, even if they have your password. It’s one of the most effective security measures you can enable, and it takes less than five minutes to set up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use two-step verification with the Evernote desktop app?
Yes. The desktop app uses the same sign-in process as the web version. When you log in, you’ll be prompted for the code just like on the website.
Does two-step verification work offline?
Yes, if you use an authenticator app, the codes are generated on your phone without an internet connection. You only need a signal to receive SMS codes.
Can I turn off two-step verification later?
Yes, you can disable it anytime from Settings > Security. You’ll need to enter a code to confirm the change.
What if I switch phones?
Before switching, transfer your authenticator app to the new phone (most apps have a transfer feature). If you don’t, you’ll need to use your backup code to sign in and then re-setup two-step verification.
Does two-step verification expire?
No, the feature stays on until you turn it off. The codes themselves expire after 30 seconds (authenticator) or after a short time (SMS), but the setting persists.
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