Google Authenticator vs WatchGuard AuthPoint

Google Authenticator generates one-time verification codes for websites and apps that support Authenticator app 2-Step Verification. It supports both time-based (TOTP) and counter-based (HOTP) codes, including when there is no internet connection or mobile service. Accounts can be added by scanning QR codes, and multiple accounts can be managed on one device. Signing in to a Google Account synchronizes codes across devices, requiring app version 6.0 or later on Android or 4.0 or later on iOS. Codes are encrypted in transit and at rest across Google products. Privacy Screen can require a PIN, pattern, or biometric check before opening the app. Codes can also be transferred between devices by exporting and importing them with QR codes. The app works without a Google Account, but device-only codes are unavailable on other devices. Google use requires 2-Step Verification on the Google Account. It is free on Android and iOS; the Android app requires Android 6.0 or later, while the listed iOS plan requires iOS 16.0 or later.

WatchGuard AuthPoint is a cloud-based multi-factor authentication service that checks users before they access computers, VPNs, cloud services, and applications. Verification options include push notifications, one-time passcodes, QR codes, hardware tokens, and phishing-resistant FIDO2 passkeys. Access policies can consider device, location, behavior, time, and device DNA. An application portal provides access to SAML and OIDC apps, and WatchGuard lists more than 130 third-party integrations, including VPN, Microsoft Entra ID, and cloud applications. The service is managed through WatchGuard Cloud, which supports multi-tenant administration for service providers. An optional Gateway connects AuthPoint with RADIUS clients, Active Directory or LDAP, and the ADFS agent; it cannot be installed on Windows servers with FIPS mode enabled. AuthPoint is licensed per user, with pricing available from a WatchGuard reseller and no free plan. A 30-day trial for up to 250 users is listed. The mobile app supports Android 7.0 and higher and iOS 14.0 and higher.