Two-factor authentication (2FA) on a Windows computer

Learn how to set up two-factor authentication (2FA) on your Windows computer when using a mobile device is not possible. We recommend enabling 2FA with a mobile device whenever you can, but it can also be activated directly on your computer. If you prefer mobile setup, read the two-factor authentication (2FA) instructions for mobile devices.

Step 1: Choose an authenticator app

You can install an authenticator app directly from the Microsoft Store or through a browser. Both options allow you to add secure two-factor authentication (2FA) on your Windows computer.

Set up 2FA from computer settings (Microsoft Store app)
  1. Open the Start menu and search for Microsoft Store.
  2. Select Microsoft Store from the results.
  3. Browse available apps and search for authenticator.
  4. Review your options and select an app you prefer. For example, FirstOrder Authenticator is a free and easy-to-use option.
  5. Click Get to download and install the app. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete setup.
Set up 2FA using a browser
  1. Open your preferred browser (for example, Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge).
  2. Go to https://apps.microsoft.com/.
  3. Search for an authenticator app such as FirstOrder Authenticator.
  4. Click Get to download and install the app.

These instructions are specifically for the FirstOrder Authenticator app but can be adapted for any authentication app. They apply whether you installed the app directly from Microsoft Store or via browser.

Step 2: Set up authenticator app by FirstOrder

  1. Open the FirstOrder Authenticator app and click Get Started.
  2. Press Next to skip optional setup screens.
  3. If prompted to log in with a Google account, click outside the login window to skip this step.

Step 3: Enable 2FA in the Merchant panel

  1. Go to the Merchant panel login page. Sign in with your email and password. A QR code will then appear. QR code displayed on the Paytrail Merchant panel login page for activating two-factor authentication.
  2. Open the FirstOrder Authenticator app and click Add 2FA codes.

    QR code and verification key shown during two-factor authentication (2FA) setup on Mac in the Merchant panel, used to connect the authenticator app for secure login.

  3. Select Screenshot to Scan and take a screenshot of the QR code displayed on the Merchant panel page.

    QR code and verification key shown during two-factor authentication (2FA) setup on Mac in the Merchant panel, used to connect the authenticator app for secure login.

  4. Enter the six-digit code into the required field to confirm setup, then click Confirm.

    Type the code as 123456, not 123 456. If you add spaces, the Confirm button will be disabled and you will not be able to continue.

    QR code and verification key shown during two-factor authentication (2FA) setup on Mac in the Merchant panel, used to connect the authenticator app for secure login. 

Two-factor authentication is now active. The Merchant panel will require a code from your authenticator app each time you log in.

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