Dealing with Salesforce Authenticator not working? Learn the most common issues, how to fix them step by step, and a reliable alternative to keep your Salesforce account protected.
Introduction
Salesforce Authenticator is a key tool in securing your Salesforce account with two-factor authentication (2FA). However, when Salesforce Authenticator not working becomes an issue, it can prevent users from logging into their dashboards, approving logins, or accessing critical CRM features. Whether you’re a sales rep trying to access pipeline data or an admin approving user access, problems like unresponsive push notifications or incorrect verification codes can severely disrupt your workflow. In this guide, we’ll break down the top reasons why Salesforce Authenticator may not be working and share 8 proven fixes to help you restore access fast in 2025.
Why Is the Salesforce Authenticator App Not Working?
If you’re facing trouble logging into your Salesforce account, here are some of the most common causes when Salesforce Authenticator is not working:
- Incorrect device time settings: Salesforce 2FA relies on time-based codes. If your device clock is off—even slightly—your verification codes may fail.
- Device change without reconnecting Authenticator: If you’ve recently switched phones and didn’t re-link Salesforce Authenticator, access issues are likely.
- Outdated app version: Running an old version of the Salesforce Authenticator app can cause bugs or prevent push notifications from working.
- Network or VPN interference: A poor internet connection or active VPN may block the Authenticator’s connection to Salesforce servers.
- App cache problems: Excessive cache data may cause the app to behave unpredictably or crash during authentication.
- Battery optimization settings: Power-saving modes may limit background activity, stopping the app from receiving approval requests.x
- Disabled notifications: If app notifications are turned off or your phone is in “Do Not Disturb” mode, you might miss login approval prompts.
How to Fix Salesforce Authenticator Not Working: Step-by-Step Guide
If you’re locked out or can’t verify your login, follow these steps to fix Salesforce Authenticator not working and regain access to your account quickly.
Fix 1: Check Time Settings on Your Device
Salesforce Authenticator uses time-based one-time passwords (TOTP). If your device clock is inaccurate, codes will not sync.
Fix:
- On iOS: Go to Settings > General > Date & Time > Set Automatically
- On Android: Go to Settings > System > Date & Time > Use Network-Provided Time
Tip: Restart the app after correcting the time settings.
Fix 2: Ensure the App Is Updated
An outdated version of Salesforce Authenticator may cause bugs, notification failures, or login issues.
Fix:
- Visit the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android)
- Search Salesforce Authenticator
- Tap Update if available
Fix 3: Enable Push Notifications
Push approvals won’t arrive if notifications are turned off or silenced.
Fix:
- Check that notifications are allowed for the app in your phone settings
- Ensure Do Not Disturb mode is disabled
- Reopen the app to trigger new push requests
Fix 4: Reconnect Salesforce Authenticator to Your Account
If you’ve changed phones or deleted the app, you need to re-register the device.
Fix:
- Log in to Salesforce via desktop using your backup method (email, SMS, or admin override)
- Go to Settings > Advanced User Details > App Registration
- Remove the old device and click Connect
- Open the app and scan the QR code or enter the key
If you can’t log in at all, ask your Salesforce admin to reset 2FA for your account.
Fix 5: Clear Cache and Restart the App
App cache or memory issues can cause authentication errors.
Fix (Android):
- Go to Settings > Apps > Salesforce Authenticator > Storage > Clear Cache
Fix (iOS): - Delete and reinstall the app from the App Store
Fix 6: Disable VPN or Switch Network
Sometimes, VPNs or firewalls block secure connections required for 2FA.
Fix:
- Turn off your VPN or proxy
- Switch to a stable Wi-Fi or cellular connection
- Try again with the app open
Fix 7: Switch to Authenticator App ® 2FA as a Reliable Alternative
If the app continues to fail, the Salesforce Authenticator app not working, consider switching to a more reliable option.
- Download Authenticator App ® 2FA from the App Store at this link
- Set it up by scanning your account QR codes it offers seamless 2FA with encrypted iCloud sync, biometric authentication, and offline code generation, ensuring you’re never locked out.
Fix 8: Contact Salesforce Support or Your Admin
If none of the above work and you’re still facing Salesforce Authenticator not working, it may be an account-side or system-wide issue.
Fix:
- Reach out to your Salesforce Administrator for account recovery
- Contact Salesforce Support via their Help Portal
- Request to disable 2FA temporarily or reset device pairing
Bonus Tip: Use Backup Methods
Always set up a backup verification method (e.g., SMS, email, or recovery codes) to avoid full lockout in the future.
Why Choose Authenticator App® 2FA For Salesforce Authenticator?
When Salesforce Authenticator not working leaves you locked out of your CRM or unable to approve login requests, it’s time to consider a more reliable and flexible 2FA solution. Authenticator App® 2FA offers robust features that enhance security, accessibility, and usability—especially for Salesforce users who depend on seamless access and data protection.
Encrypted Cloud Backup
Unlike the Salesforce Authenticator, which doesn’t offer built-in cloud recovery, Authenticator App® 2FA supports encrypted cloud backup, making it easy to restore your 2FA tokens when switching devices or reinstalling apps—without risking account lockout.
Multi-Device Access
Authenticator App® 2FA lets you securely access your codes across multiple devices, including smartphones, tablets, and desktops. Whether you’re logging into Salesforce from your laptop at work or your phone on the go, you stay in control.
Biometric Security for Quick Access
Enjoy the convenience and protection of Face ID and Touch ID. With Salesforce Authenticator not working for many due to login delays or unresponsive prompts, biometric access with Authenticator App® 2FA offers speed and security in one tap.
Offline Code Generation
No internet? No problem. Authenticator App® 2FA works offline, generating codes even when you’re not connected—perfect for field sales reps or remote workers using Salesforce in low-connectivity areas.
Seamless Integration with the Apple Ecosystem
If you’re using Salesforce on Apple devices, you’ll love how Authenticator App® 2FA is optimized for iOS. With smooth animations, iCloud sync, and Face ID integration, it offers a significantly better experience than Salesforce Authenticator in the Apple environment.
** Learn more: How to set up Salesforce Authenticator
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I recover my codes if Salesforce Authenticator stops working or I lose access?
Only if you’ve set up a recovery method via Salesforce or your admin. With Authenticator App® 2FA, cloud backup makes recovery much easier and more secure.
2. Does Salesforce Authenticator work offline?
No. Salesforce Authenticator relies on push notifications and an internet connection for login approvals. Authenticator App® 2FA can generate time-based codes even when offline.
3. Will switching to another authenticator affect my Salesforce account?
Yes, but you can easily re-enable 2FA using Authenticator App® 2FA by scanning the new QR code in your Salesforce security settings.
4. What should I do if Salesforce Authenticator still isn’t working after troubleshooting?
If all else fails and Salesforce Authenticator is not working, it may be best to switch to Authenticator App® 2FA, which offers better backup options, reliability, and device compatibility.
5. What features make Authenticator App® 2FA better than Salesforce Authenticator?
- Encrypted cloud backup for easy code recovery
- Multi-device access across platforms
- Biometric security with Face ID / Touch ID
- Offline support for uninterrupted access
- Apple ecosystem optimization for iPhone, iPad, and Mac users
6. I’m not receiving codes in Salesforce Authenticator. What should I do?
- Ensure your phone’s time is set automatically
- Check for stable internet or disable any VPN
- Update or reinstall the app
- If issues persist, contact your Salesforce admin or switch to a more reliable 2FA app like Authenticator App® 2FA
Conclusion
Salesforce Authenticator not working can disrupt productivity and even put your access to critical CRM data at risk. While minor issues may be fixable, frequent problems like missed push notifications, no backup recovery, and poor multi-device support can lead to permanent lockouts. That’s why many Salesforce users are switching to Authenticator App® 2FA—a modern solution with encrypted backups, biometric security, and seamless usability. Making the switch can help you stay protected, productive, and in control—no matter where or how you work.
Still facing issues with Salesforce Authenticator? Try switching to Authenticator App ® 2FA for a smoother, more secure experience.
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Now your account is protected!
Need help setting up 2FA for other apps?
** Explore more 2FA guides: https://2fa-authenticator.org/guide-en/