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Ruachost Help Center

Implementing Google Authentication for WordPress

Adding Google Authentication (two‑factor authentication, 2FA) to WordPress strengthens your site’s security by requiring a time‑limited code in addition to your password. On ruachost.com, you can enable Google Authentication using the Google Authenticator plugin.

Why Use Google Authentication?

Section titled “Why Use Google Authentication?”
  • Protects against brute‑force login attempts.
  • Adds an extra layer of security beyond passwords.
  • Ensures only legitimate users can access the WordPress dashboard.

Installing the Google Authenticator Plugin

Section titled “Installing the Google Authenticator Plugin”
  1. Log in to WordPress with an administrator account.
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  2. In the dashboard, go to Plugins → Add New.
  3. Search for Google Authenticator.
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  4. Click Install Now, then Activate Plugin.

✅ The plugin is now installed.

⚙️ Configuring Google Authentication

Section titled “⚙️ Configuring Google Authentication”

  1. Edit Admin Profile.

    • Go to Users → Profile (or Edit Profile).
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    • Scroll down to Google Authenticator Settings.

  2. *Enable Authentication.*

    • Check the Active box to enable Google Authentication.
    • Optionally enable Relaxed Mode (allows codes to remain valid for up to 4 minutes).

  3. Set Description and Secret Key.

    • Description → The account name shown in the Google Authenticator app.
    • Secret Key → Used if you cannot scan the QR code.
    • ⚠️ Note: iPhone does not accept spaces in the description field.

  4. Enable App Password (Optional).

    • Use only if your site requires XML‑RPC (remote publishing).

  5. Save Settings.

    • Click Update User to apply changes.

Configuring the Google Authenticator App

Section titled “Configuring the Google Authenticator App”
  1. Install the Google Authenticator app on your mobile device (Android/iOS).
  2. Open the app → Tap the + icon → Choose Scan QR code or Enter key manually.
  3. Scan the QR code or enter the secret key from your WordPress profile.
  4. A 6‑digit code will appear with a 1‑minute countdown timer.

Logging In with Google Authentication

Section titled “Logging In with Google Authentication”
  • On the WordPress login page, enter your username and password.
  • A new field will appear asking for the Google Authenticator code.
  • Enter the 6‑digit code from your app → Access granted.