How to Migrate from Google Authenticator to Sentinel

Switching from Google Authenticator to Sentinel Authenticator is easier than you think. With our seamless import feature, you can transfer all your two-factor authentication tokens in just a few taps—no need to manually reconfigure each account.

This guide will walk you through the entire migration process, ensuring you don't lose access to any of your accounts.

Why Switch to Sentinel Authenticator?

Before You Start

What You'll Need:

• Google Authenticator app (updated to latest version)
• Sentinel Authenticator app (download from App Store)
• 5-10 minutes of your time
• Good lighting for scanning QR codes

Step-by-Step Migration Guide

1. Open Google Authenticator

   Launch the Google Authenticator app on your device. You should see all your existing 2FA accounts listed.

   Tip: If you don't see any accounts, make sure you're signed into the correct device where your tokens are stored.

2. Access the Transfer Menu

   Tap the three-dot menu (⋮) in the top-right corner of the Google Authenticator app, then select "Transfer accounts".

   Note: This feature is available in Google Authenticator version 5.10 and later. Update your app if you don't see this option.

3. Export Your Accounts

   Select "Export accounts" from the menu. Google Authenticator will show you a list of all your 2FA tokens.

4. Select Accounts to Transfer

   Select all the accounts you want to migrate to Sentinel Authenticator. You can select individual accounts or tap "Select all" to transfer everything at once. Then tap "Next".

   Pro Tip: If you have many accounts, Google Authenticator may generate multiple QR codes. You'll need to scan each one separately.

5. Generate the QR Code

   Google Authenticator will now display a QR code containing all your selected 2FA tokens. Keep this screen open—you'll need it in the next step.

   Security Warning: This QR code contains sensitive information. Don't share it or take screenshots. Anyone with access to it can import your 2FA tokens.

6. Open Sentinel Authenticator

   Now, open the Sentinel Authenticator app on your device. If you haven't downloaded it yet, get it from the App Store.

7. Tap the Plus Button (+)

   In Sentinel Authenticator, simply tap the "+" button to add new accounts. This will activate your device's camera.

8. Scan the QR Code

   Use your camera to scan the QR code displayed in Google Authenticator. That's it! Sentinel Authenticator will automatically import all your 2FA tokens at once.

   Magic Moment: Watch as all your accounts appear instantly in Sentinel Authenticator—no manual entry required!

Verify Your Migration

After importing, it's crucial to verify that all your tokens work correctly before removing Google Authenticator.

Verification Checklist:

• Count your accounts: Make sure the number of accounts in Sentinel matches Google Authenticator
• Check codes match: Compare a few codes between both apps—they should be identical
• Test critical accounts: Log into 2-3 important accounts using codes from Sentinel
• Keep Google Authenticator for a few days: Don't delete it immediately—wait until you're confident everything works

Troubleshooting Common Issues

"Transfer accounts" option not showing

Solution: Update Google Authenticator to the latest version from the App Store. The export feature was added in version 5.10.

Camera won't scan the QR code

Solution: Make sure you have good lighting and hold your device steady. Clean your camera lens and ensure Sentinel has camera permissions enabled in Settings.

Codes don't match between apps

Solution: Make sure both devices have the correct time and date settings. 2FA codes are time-based and require accurate device clocks. Enable automatic time in your device settings.

Some accounts didn't transfer

Solution: If you have more than 10 accounts, Google Authenticator creates multiple QR codes. Repeat the import process for each QR code displayed.

Lost access to accounts after deletion

Solution: This is why we recommend keeping Google Authenticator for a few days. If you've already deleted it, use your backup codes or contact the service provider's support team for account recovery.

What Happens After Migration?

Once you've successfully migrated to Sentinel Authenticator, you'll enjoy several advantages over Google Authenticator:

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I lose access to my accounts during migration?

No! The migration process doesn't remove tokens from Google Authenticator. Your codes will work in both apps simultaneously until you choose to delete Google Authenticator.

Can I migrate back to Google Authenticator if needed?

Yes, Sentinel Authenticator also has an export feature that works the same way. You can export your tokens and scan them back into Google Authenticator or any other TOTP-compatible app.

How long does the migration take?

The actual migration takes less than a minute! Simply scan one QR code and all your accounts transfer instantly. The entire process, including verification, typically takes 5-10 minutes.

Is Sentinel Authenticator free?

Sentinel Authenticator offers a free version with core features. Premium features like iCloud sync, custom folders, and advanced security options are available with a subscription. Check our pricing page for details.

What if I don't have the latest version of Google Authenticator?

You'll need to update to at least version 5.10 to use the export feature. Alternatively, you can manually add each account to Sentinel by rescanning the original QR codes or entering the setup keys from each service's security settings.

Ready to Make the Switch?

Migrating from Google Authenticator to Sentinel Authenticator is quick, easy, and secure. With just a few taps, you'll gain access to superior security features, automatic backups, and a more intuitive user experience.

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