Change Authenticator app

[ematipico]

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Hi,

Years ago I set up an autheticator app to enable 2FA. I want to change the authenticator application now; however, npmjs.org doesn't allow me to do so.

Do you know how I can do that?

[ematipico]

I can't disable the 2FA because it's required by the orgs I belong to

[Krizzz18]

Since you can't disable 2FA due to organization requirements, here's how to change your authenticator app on npm:

Method 1: Add New Authenticator First (Recommended)

1. Go to your npm account settings: https://www.npmjs.com/settings/YOUR_USERNAME/tfa
2. Look for "Edit Profile & Settings" → "Two Factor Authentication"
3. Add a recovery method if you haven't: Make sure you have recovery codes saved before making changes
4. Add the new authenticator:
   • Some systems allow you to have multiple 2FA methods registered
   • Try clicking "Add another device" or similar option
   • Scan the new QR code with your new authenticator app
5. Test the new authenticator by logging out and back in
6. Remove the old authenticator once the new one is confirmed working

Method 2: Use Recovery Codes

If Method 1 doesn't work:

1. Download your recovery codes from npm settings (do this NOW if you haven't)
2. Log out of npm
3. Log back in using one of your recovery codes instead of the old authenticator
4. Go to 2FA settings immediately after logging in
5. Reconfigure 2FA with your new authenticator app
   • You should see an option to "Reconfigure" or "Reset" 2FA
   • Scan the new QR code with your new authenticator app
6. Generate new recovery codes and save them securely

Method 3: Contact npm Support (Last Resort)

If you don't have recovery codes and can't access settings:

1. Go to npm support: https://www.npmjs.com/support
2. Explain that you need to change your authenticator app but cannot disable 2FA due to organization requirements
3. They may ask you to verify your identity through other means

Important Notes:

⚠️ Before making any changes:

• Download and save your recovery codes
• Make sure you can still access your current authenticator
• Don't delete the old authenticator app until the new one is confirmed working

🔐 Organization 2FA vs Personal 2FA:

• Organization-required 2FA means you can't turn it off completely
• However, you should still be able to change the device/app you use for 2FA
• The restriction is on disabling 2FA, not on reconfiguring it

💡 If the npm web interface doesn't show an option to reconfigure:

# Try using npm CLI
npm profile get
npm profile enable-2fa auth-and-writes

This will prompt you to set up 2FA again, allowing you to use your new authenticator.

Typical npm 2FA Settings Location:

1. Log into npmjs.com
2. Click your profile picture (top right)
3. Click "Account"
4. Look for "Two-Factor Authentication" section
5. You should see options to manage your 2FA methods

Let me know if you need help with a specific step!

[ematipico]

Thank you. I sent a support request because none of the provided solutions worked for me.