How to Set Up Google's Advanced Protection Program

If yous want serious Google business relationship security, the company's new Avant-garde Protection Program is designed to fend off even the sneakiest of hacks.

Although the program is available to all, Google designed it for "high-risk" users such every bit political entrada staffers, journalists, and business organisation leaders who oft face targeted email phishing schemes.

To sign upwards, you lot'll have to trade in a little convenience and spend some cash. But in return, yous'll get Google's strongest security protections and some peace of mind. Here's a step-past-pace guide showing you what to expect.

1. Security Keys

Perhaps the biggest change with the Advanced Protection Program is the log-in process. Whenever you sign into a new device you'll type in your password as usual. But and so you'll connect a USB security primal that'southward been registered to your account.

A USB security key inserted into a laptop.

These security keys generate a unique passcode that Google uses to unlock your account, providing an extra layer of security. And then even if a hacker manages to steal your countersign, they won't be able to break into your account without the security primal. It'south similar to 2-factor authentication, but requires the concrete keys rather than a text-based lawmaking or Authenticator app.

Unfortunately, security keys aren't gratuitous. They usually cost around $xx. And to actuate Google'south Avant-garde Protection Program, you lot'll need to own two—one of which will serve as a backup.

two. Where Do I Buy Them?

If yous don't already own several security keys, Google has a few suggestions. The company recommends you purchase one USB security key with Bluetooth connectivity from Feitian and a standard USB cardinal from Yubico.

Having a USB security key with Bluetooth is important. PCs may be congenital with USB ports, but smartphones and tablets more often than not are not. Feitian's security primal can connect to your mobile devices via Bluetooth.

For Android users, Google partnered with Yubico for a special $50 deal that'll provide both security keys. 1 is a standard USB cardinal. The other can connect to a mobile device over Near Field Communication (NFC), a technology Android phones and tablets generally support.

Two USB security keys from Yubico.

The only drawback is that the Yubico key won't piece of work with iOS devices (although there are rumblings you tin apply it with the correct adapter string). Regardless, Apple users volition probably have to purchase Bluetooth-enabled security keys, such every bit the ane from Feitian or the VASCO Digipass SecureClick.

three. Registering

One time you have two security keys, plow on the Advanced Protection Program. It'll enquire you to log in to your Google account, and you'll be taken to a page where you can register both security keys.

Registering a security key for Google's Advanced Protection Program.

The process is straightforward. If you're on a laptop, insert your security cardinal into the USB drive. If there's a button on the central, tap it. Google should quickly recognize the cardinal and and so register it with your account.

You can as well plow on the plan over your smartphone with security keys that take Bluetooth or NFC.

An important note for iOS users: You'll accept to download an additional app to your device called Google Smart Lock in gild to pair your Bluetooth-enabled security cardinal with your Google account. It'll walk you through how to register your accounts. Google has also posted instructions on how to use the app.

4. Caveats

When both keys are registered, Google volition show you a folio, explaining the limitations of the Advanced Protection Program.

The changes brought by Google's Advanced Protection Program.

Amongst the changes is that all 3rd-political party apps, including Apple Mail, will be barred from accessing your Gmail or Google Drive data. This is designed to stop hackers from using fake apps or extensions to fool yous into giving up access. But it may exist a dealbreaker for users who rely on 3rd-party software tools to view their email.

Google too warns that account recovery will take a few days in the issue you e'er lose access. If that happens, be prepared to tell Google information that can verify your identity, along with what happened to your security keys.

5. Protection On

Once the programme is activated, become ready to beginning using your security key once more. Equally a precaution, Google will log you out from all other devices that were signed into your Google account.

Using a USB security key with NFC-connectivity on a smartphone.

That means y'all'll accept to sign back in with every device past typing your countersign, and and so using your security key. Just you'll only need the security key for beginning-time sign-ons.

In your account settings, you lot can besides add together or revoke security keys and cutting access to whatsoever Google sign-ons from other devices. Those options will come in handy if a security key is ever lost, or if your laptop gets stolen. At that place, y'all can also quit the Advanced Protection Program. Simply plow it off, and yous'll revert back to Google'south default login process.