Bitwarden just launched a new authenticator app. Here’s what it means to users.

Boost your security and download Bitwarden Authenticator today. Available for iOS and Android

Users now have the option to select a more connected experience between Bitwarden Authenticator and Bitwarden Password Manager. This enables access to their time-based one-time passcodes from either application and eliminates the need to manage codes across different apps. It also provides extra backup. If one app becomes inaccessible, the codes remain available through the other application, reducing the risk of being locked out of accounts. Learn how to sync verification codes.

Bitwarden Authenticator for everyone

Bitwarden has strengthened its security product portfolio with a new authenticator app that protects online services and applications from unauthorized access. Bitwarden Authenticator generates and stores time-based one-time passwords, aka TOTP, which adds another layer of user verification, ensuring identities are confirmed before users gain access to critical data. Available in iOS and Android app stores, Bitwarden Authenticator is available for everyone, even if they are not currently Bitwarden customers.

Multi-factor authentication isn't just for businesses. An authenticator that supports cloud and mobile across devices helps everyone stay more secure online. Bitwarden Authenticator helps reduce your risk of fraud and data breaches at home, at work, and everywhere you go. 

“Bitwarden Authenticator provides immediate value to the Bitwarden user base who has been asking for a standalone app for several years. Stay tuned for upcoming new features that will help enterprise organizations enforce security policies to protect and monitor authentication to business applications," said Kyle Spearrin, founder and CTO of Bitwarden.

Is Bitwarden Authenticator part of Bitwarden Password Manager?

Bitwarden Authenticator is a standalone app that is available for everyone, even non-Bitwarden customers.

What does Bitwarden Authenticator do?

In its current release, Bitwarden Authenticator generates time-based one-time passwords (TOTP) for users who want to add an extra layer of 2FA security to their logins.

Isn't this the same as storing TOTP authentication codes in Bitwarden Password Manager?

Integrated TOTP authentication is a premium feature in Bitwarden Password Manager. Bitwarden Authenticator is a standalone mobile app that generates TOTP codes for any online service that supports them. Bitwarden Authenticator can be used without a Bitwarden account.

Is there synchronization between Bitwarden Authenticator and Bitwarden Password Manager?

Yes, this is an optional functionality for users who want unified TOTP access:

• Automatic sync from Bitwarden Password Manager to Bitwarden Authenticator. TOTP codes added or updated in your Password Manager can (if selected) automatically appear in the Authenticator app.

• Manual copy from Bitwarden Authenticator to Bitwarden Password Manager. Codes created in the Authenticator app remain local by default. Users can choose to manually copy specific codes into their Password Manager vault, giving them control over which local codes become part of their synced apps.

Should I use both? When should I use the integrated authentication  feature? When should I use Bitwarden Authenticator?

Integrated authentication in Bitwarden Password Manager offers a convenient way for users to add 2FA to their online accounts. This popular feature will remain available across paid plans. 

Bitwarden Authenticator can be used to store your verification codes to access your Bitwarden account, as well as other online applications you use. 

They can be used together, or separately, depending on your security preferences. 

Flexible TOTP sharing provides seamless access to all user TOTP codes across workflows, regardless of which app is being used. Users transitioning from other authenticator apps can gradually move codes into the Bitwarden ecosystem while maintaining flexibility about which codes to integrate into their password manager vault.

Can I use the Bitwarden Authenticator to add 2FA to my Bitwarden account?

Yes! Many Bitwarden users have asked for a standalone authenticator in which to store their verification codes used to access their Bitwarden account. The flexible TOTP sharing functionality makes this easier.

Will Bitwarden be removing the TOTP feature in Bitwarden Password Manager? 

The integrated authenticator will continue to be available in paid plans.

Can I use different logins for Bitwarden Authenticator and Bitwarden Password Manager?

Yes, users can set up different accounts for Bitwarden Authenticator and Bitwarden Password Manager.

How do I backup my data in Bitwarden Authenticator?

Mobile OS: Your data will be backed up through the mobile operating system's backup services. Please make sure your device is configured for backups. Bitwarden Authenticator data is included in the OS backups and will be restored with them.

Data exports: You can export your data and store the file in a safe location, such as an encrypted thumb drive, as a backup that can be imported when needed.

Is Bitwarden Authenticator open source?

Yes! Bitwarden Authenticator is open source and available at the following GitHub repositories for Android and iOS.

Editor's note:

Updated July 2025 with information on bi-directional sync between Bitwarden Authenticator and Bitwarden Password Manager

Updated June 13, 2024 with information on importing into and exporting from Bitwarden Authenticator