Authy Cloud Backups: Automatic Updates

TL;DR

Yes, Authy cloud backups update automatically after you add a new 2-factor account (if enabled). However, there are some things to check if they don’t seem to be working.

How Authy Backups Work

Authy offers cloud backups as a way to protect your 2-factor authentication accounts. When you enable cloud backups, Authy regularly syncs your account data to their servers. This means if you lose your phone or switch devices, you can restore your accounts.

Checking Automatic Backup Status

1. Enable Cloud Backups: First, make sure cloud backups are actually turned on in Authy.
• Open Authy on your phone.
• Tap the Settings icon (usually a cogwheel).
• Select Backups.
• Toggle the Cloud Backups switch to the ‘On’ position. You may need to verify your email address.
2. Automatic Sync: Authy automatically syncs your accounts in the background after adding or changing them. There is no manual ‘backup now’ button.

Troubleshooting Automatic Backups

If your backups aren’t updating as expected, try these steps:

1. Internet Connection: Ensure your phone has a stable internet connection (Wi-Fi or mobile data). Authy needs this to sync.
2. Authy App Updates: Make sure you’re using the latest version of the Authy app. Outdated versions can have bugs that affect backups.
   • Check the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android) for updates.
3. Account Limit: Authy has a limit on the number of accounts you can back up, depending on your subscription level. Check if you’ve exceeded this limit.
   • In Authy Settings > Backups, it should show how many backups are used and your total allowance.
4. Re-add Accounts (Last Resort): If the problem persists, try deleting and re-adding a few of your accounts to force a sync. This is only recommended as a last resort.
   • Important: Before doing this, make sure you have recovery codes for each account!
   • In Authy, tap and hold on the account you want to remove, then select Remove Account.
   • Add the account back using the QR code or your setup key.
5. Check Authy Status Page: Sometimes Authy’s servers have issues. Check their status page for any reported outages.
   • Authy Status Page

Verifying a Successful Backup

1. Restore Test: The best way to verify backups is to perform a test restore on another device (or after reinstalling Authy). This confirms the backup data is valid.
   • Install Authy on a new device.
   • During setup, choose Restore from Backup.
   • Follow the prompts to enter your phone number and verification code.
   • If successful, your accounts should be restored.