What is two-factor authentication (2FA)?
Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security to your Dext account.
When logging in, you enter:
Your email and password
A time-based verification code
This code can be generated by an authenticator app or sent via SMS or email.
For step-by-step setup instructions on setting up 2FA, see:
I’ve lost or changed my phone and can’t log in. What should I do?
If you no longer have access to your authenticator app, SMS or email 2FA method:
Try using one of your backup codes.
If you don’t have backup codes, contact our support team.
To request access:
Email support@dext.com from the email address you use to log in to Dext.
Ask for your 2FA to be temporarily disabled.
Once our team disables 2FA, you can log in and set up your preferred 2FA method again.
Important: For security reasons, we can only process this request if it comes from the email address linked to your Dext login.
A colleague or client lost or changed their phone and can’t log in. What can they do?
If another user is locked out due to 2FA, they should contact our support team using the email address linked to their Dext login.
Can I disable 2FA after enabling it?
If 2FA is enforced for your account, it cannot be disabled.
You can change your verification method (for example, switch from SMS to an authenticator app), but 2FA must remain enabled.
If 2FA is not enforced for your account, you can disable it from User settings > Security.
Why is my verification code invalid?
Verification codes are valid for 30 seconds. Make sure you enter the code within that time.
If the code is still invalid:
Check that your device’s date and time are set automatically.
Ensure your authenticator app is synced correctly.
If you use Google Authenticator
Open the app.
Go to Settings.
Select Time correction for codes.
Select Sync now.
This synchronises your codes without changing your device’s time settings.
What is a backup code?
Backup codes are one-time recovery codes generated when you enable two-factor authentication (2FA).
They allow you to log in if you lose access to your usual verification method.
Each backup code can only be used once.
For full details on how backup codes work and how to manage them, see:
What happens if I change my mobile device?
If you change devices:
Install your authenticator app on the new device.
Transfer your existing authenticator setup (if supported by the app).
If you no longer have access to your previous device and cannot transfer your app, use a backup code to log in and set up 2FA again or contact our support team.
Will I need to enter a code every time I log in?
When logging in with 2FA, you’ll be asked whether you want to trust the device you’re using.
If you choose to trust the device, you won’t need to enter a verification code each time you log in on that device.
You’ll still be asked for a verification code if you:
Use a different device
Use a different browser
Use private or incognito mode
Clear your browser cookies
For more details, see Trusted devices and two-factor authentication.
I don’t have a smartphone. What can I use?
If you don’t have a smartphone, you can:
Use email or SMS as your 2FA method
Use a desktop authenticator app (such as 1Password)
Use a browser extension authenticator if you access Dext from a single device
Keep in mind that desktop or browser-based authenticators will only generate codes on the device where they are installed.