# MacroPad 2FA TOTP Authentication Friend ## Overview ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/103/509/medium800thumb/circuitpython_out.jpg?1626735965) ## What is TOTP? Having 2 Factor Authentication ( **2FA** ) on all your accounts is a good way to keep your data more secure. With 2FA logins, not only is a username and password needed, but also a one-time-use code. There are a few different ways to get that code, such as by email, phone or SMS. But my favorite way is to do it is via a 'Google Authenticator' **T** ime-based **O** ne **T** ime **P** assword, also known as a **TOTP**. Using an app on your phone like [Authy](https://authy.com/) or Authenticator, you set up a secret code given to you by the service, then every 30 seconds, a new code is generated for you. What's extra nice is that the Google Authenticator protocol is supported by just about _every_ service and phone/tablet. Perfect for when you don't have your phone handy, or don't want to noodle with Authy all day. Plus it types it in for you! ## Why Use a MacroPad? So a simple smartphone app could take care of all your TOTP needs. Why use a MacroPad? Maybe you don't have a smartphone, or don't have yours always handy near your PC. Also, by emulating a HID keyboard, the MacroPad can type in the code for you. So by having a MacroPad tethered to your PC via a USB cable, you'll have a TOTP device always at the ready. There are also a few other guides that provide similar capabilities using different hardware platforms. Be sure to check them out as well: - [PyPortal 2FA TOTP Authentication Friend](https://learn.adafruit.com/pyportal-2fa-totp-authentication-friend) - PyPortal based - [CircuitPython 2FA TOTP Authentication Friend](https://learn.adafruit.com/circuitpython-totp-otp-2fa-authy-authenticator-friend) - Feather ESP8266 based ## Parts The main item needed is an Adafruit MacroPad and associated parts. You can get all of these via a kit: ### Adafruit MacroPad RP2040 Starter Kit - 3x4 Keys + Encoder + OLED [Adafruit MacroPad RP2040 Starter Kit - 3x4 Keys + Encoder + OLED](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5128) Strap yourself in, we're launching in T-minus 10 seconds...Destination? A new Class M planet called MACROPAD! M here stands for Microcontroller because this 3x4 keyboard controller features the newest technology from the Raspberry Pi sector: say hello to the RP2040. It's a speedy... Out of Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5128) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/5128/guides) ![Video of a hand playing with a rainbow-glowing keypad.](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/product-videos/640x480/5128-08.jpg) Or a la carte if you already have some of the items or what to customize things, like use different keebs. ### Adafruit MACROPAD RP2040 Bare Bones - 3x4 Keys + Encoder + OLED [Adafruit MACROPAD RP2040 Bare Bones - 3x4 Keys + Encoder + OLED](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5100) Strap yourself in, we're launching in T-minus 10 seconds...Destination? A new Class M planet called MACROPAD! M here, stands for Microcontroller because this 3x4 keyboard controller features the newest technology from the Raspberry Pi sector: say hello to the RP2040. It's a speedy... In Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5100) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/5100/guides) ![Angled shot of MacroPad](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/640x480/5100-00.jpg) ### Adafruit MacroPad RP2040 Enclosure + Hardware Add-on Pack [Adafruit MacroPad RP2040 Enclosure + Hardware Add-on Pack](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5103) Dress up your Adafruit Macropad with PaintYourDragon's fabulous decorative silkscreen enclosure and hardware kit. You get the two custom PCBs that are cut to act as a protective bottom plate and and a mechanically-stabilizing keyboard plate. Use the included M3 screws to attach the... In Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5103) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/5103/guides) ![Top view of MacroPad add on pack](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/640x480/5103-06.jpg) And, **if you go a la carte** , don't forget [keyswitches](https://www.adafruit.com/category/744) and [keycaps](https://www.adafruit.com/category/357). A real-time clock (RTC) breakout is also needed to keep track of current time. Here are some options. ### Use STEMMA QT Breakout Easiest is to use a STEMMA QT capable breakout: ### Adafruit PCF8523 Real Time Clock Breakout Board [Adafruit PCF8523 Real Time Clock Breakout Board](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5189) This is a great battery-backed real time clock (RTC) that allows your microcontroller project to keep track of time even if it is reprogrammed, or if the power is lost. Perfect for data-logging, clock-building, time stamping, timers, and alarms, etc. Equipped... In Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5189) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/5189/guides) ![Angled shot of PCF8523 Real Time Clock Breakout Board.](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/640x480/5189-00.jpg) ### Adafruit DS3231 Precision RTC - STEMMA QT [Adafruit DS3231 Precision RTC - STEMMA QT](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5188)   The datasheet for the **DS3231** explains that this part is an "Extremely Accurate I²C-Integrated RTC/TCXO/Crystal". And, hey, it does exactly what it says on the tin! This **Real Time Clock (RTC)** is the most precise you can get in a... Out of Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5188) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/5188/guides) ![Angled shot of RTC breakout.](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/640x480/5188-05.jpg) This will allow direct connection **without soldering** to the MacroPad using this STEMMA QT cable: ### STEMMA QT / Qwiic JST SH 4-Pin Cable - 50mm Long [STEMMA QT / Qwiic JST SH 4-Pin Cable - 50mm Long](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4399) This 4-wire cable is 50mm / 1.9" long and fitted with JST SH female 4-pin connectors on both ends. Compared with the chunkier JST PH these are 1mm pitch instead of 2mm, but still have a nice latching feel, while being easy to insert and remove. Out of Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4399) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/4399/guides) ![Angled of of JST SH 4-Pin Cable.](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/640x480/4399-00.jpg) ### Use Older Style Breakout These options also work fine. However, some soldering will be required on the headers pins. ### Adafruit PCF8523 Real Time Clock Assembled Breakout Board [Adafruit PCF8523 Real Time Clock Assembled Breakout Board](https://www.adafruit.com/product/3295) This is a great battery-backed real time clock (RTC) that allows your microcontroller project to keep track of time even if it is reprogrammed, or if the power is lost. Perfect for datalogging, clock-building, time stamping, timers and alarms, etc. Equipped... In Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/3295) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/3295/guides) ![Angled shot of RTC breakout board.](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/640x480/3295-11.jpg) ### Adafruit DS3231 Precision RTC Breakout [Adafruit DS3231 Precision RTC Breakout](https://www.adafruit.com/product/3013) The datasheet for the **DS3231** explains that this part is an "Extremely Accurate I²C-Integrated RTC/TCXO/Crystal". And, hey, it does exactly what it says on the tin! This **Real Time Clock (RTC)** is the most precise you can get in a small, low power... Out of Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/3013) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/3013/guides) ![Angled Shot of the Adafruit DS3231 Precision RTC Breakout.](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/640x480/3013-06.jpg) ### Adafruit DS1307 Real Time Clock Assembled Breakout Board [Adafruit DS1307 Real Time Clock Assembled Breakout Board](https://www.adafruit.com/product/3296) This is a great battery-backed real time clock (RTC) that allows your microcontroller project to keep track of time even if it is reprogrammed, or if the power is lost. Perfect for datalogging, clock-building, time stamping, timers and alarms, etc. The **DS1307** is the most... In Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/3296) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/3296/guides) ![Angled shot of a Adafruit DS1307 Real Time Clock Assembled Breakout Board.](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/640x480/3296-03.jpg) With male headers soldered on the RTC breakouts, this STEMMA QT cable can be used for connecting to the MacroPad: ### STEMMA QT / Qwiic JST SH 4-pin Cable with Premium Female Sockets [STEMMA QT / Qwiic JST SH 4-pin Cable with Premium Female Sockets](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4397) This 4-wire cable is a little over 150mm / 6" long and fitted with JST-SH female 4-pin connectors on one end and premium female headers on the other. Compared with the chunkier JST-PH these are 1mm pitch instead of 2mm, but still have a nice latching feel, while being easy to insert and... Out of Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4397) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/4397/guides) ![Angled shot of JST SH 4-pin Cable with Premium Female Sockets.](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/640x480/4397-02.jpg) ### **Batteries Not Included** These RTC breakouts all use the same CR1220 coin cell battery: ### CR1220 12mm Diameter - 3V Lithium Coin Cell Battery [CR1220 12mm Diameter - 3V Lithium Coin Cell Battery](https://www.adafruit.com/product/380) These are the highest quality & capacity batteries, the same as shipped with the iCufflinks, iNecklace, Datalogging and GPS Shields, GPS HAT, etc. One battery per order (you'll want one battery per cufflink or pendant.) Brand may vary but all battery brands are verified... In Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/380) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/380/guides) ![Angled shot of CR1220 12mm Diameter - 3V Lithium Coin Cell Battery - CR1220.](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/640x480/380-01.jpg) ## FAQ ##### **THIS IS NOT A QUESTION MORE OF A COMMENT. YOU ARE PROGRAMMING THE TOTP SECRET INTO THE FLASH OF THE MICROCONTROLLER AND ITS NOT ENCRYPTED OR PROTECTED AT ALL ANYONE COULD BREAK INTO YOUR APARTMENT, GO TO YOUR BEDROOM, LOOK ON YOUR DESK, FIND THIS AND THEN CONNECT IT UP TO THEIR HACKER LAPTOP TO GRAB YOUR SECRET KEY THEN IF THEY HAD YOUR USERNAME AND PASSWORD THEY WOULD BE ABLE TO LOG IN AS YOU AND THIS IS REALLY INSECURE ITS SO IRRESPONSIBLE TO CONSIDER PUBLISHING A PROJECT LIKE THIS BY THE WAY DID YOU SEE THAT SNOWDEN APP? MAYBE YOU CAN RUN THAT ON A PHONE SO YOU CAN WATCH YOUR DESK REMOTELY AND MAKE SURE NOBODY BROKE IN TO STEAL YOUR MACROPAD? OH WAIT YOU JUST SAID YOU DON'T HAVE A PHONE. OK I DONT KNOW WHAT MY QUESTION IS** this project is probably not for you - [Next Page](https://learn.adafruit.com/macropad-2fa-totp-authentication-friend/circuitpython.md) ## Featured Products ### Adafruit MACROPAD RP2040 Bare Bones - 3x4 Keys + Encoder + OLED [Adafruit MACROPAD RP2040 Bare Bones - 3x4 Keys + Encoder + OLED](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5100) Strap yourself in, we're launching in T-minus 10 seconds...Destination? A new Class M planet called MACROPAD! M here, stands for Microcontroller because this 3x4 keyboard controller features the newest technology from the Raspberry Pi sector: say hello to the RP2040. It's a speedy... In Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5100) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/5100/guides) ### Adafruit MacroPad RP2040 Starter Kit - 3x4 Keys + Encoder + OLED [Adafruit MacroPad RP2040 Starter Kit - 3x4 Keys + Encoder + OLED](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5128) Strap yourself in, we're launching in T-minus 10 seconds...Destination? A new Class M planet called MACROPAD! M here stands for Microcontroller because this 3x4 keyboard controller features the newest technology from the Raspberry Pi sector: say hello to the RP2040. It's a speedy... Out of Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5128) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/5128/guides) ### Adafruit PCF8523 Real Time Clock Assembled Breakout Board [Adafruit PCF8523 Real Time Clock Assembled Breakout Board](https://www.adafruit.com/product/3295) This is a great battery-backed real time clock (RTC) that allows your microcontroller project to keep track of time even if it is reprogrammed, or if the power is lost. Perfect for datalogging, clock-building, time stamping, timers and alarms, etc. Equipped... In Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/3295) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/3295/guides) ### Adafruit DS3231 Precision RTC Breakout [Adafruit DS3231 Precision RTC Breakout](https://www.adafruit.com/product/3013) The datasheet for the **DS3231** explains that this part is an "Extremely Accurate I²C-Integrated RTC/TCXO/Crystal". And, hey, it does exactly what it says on the tin! This **Real Time Clock (RTC)** is the most precise you can get in a small, low power... Out of Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/3013) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/3013/guides) ### STEMMA QT / Qwiic JST SH 4-pin to Premium Male Headers Cable [STEMMA QT / Qwiic JST SH 4-pin to Premium Male Headers Cable](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4209) This 4-wire cable is a little over 150mm / 6" long and fitted with JST-SH female 4-pin connectors on one end and premium Dupont male headers on the other. Compared with the chunkier JST-PH these are 1mm pitch instead of 2mm, but still have a nice latching feel, while being easy to insert... Out of Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4209) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/4209/guides) ## Related Guides - [Adafruit MacroPad RP2040](https://learn.adafruit.com/adafruit-macropad-rp2040.md) - [Dragon Drop: a CircuitPython Game for MacroPad](https://learn.adafruit.com/dragon-drop-a-circuitpython-game-for-macropad.md) - [AdaBox 019](https://learn.adafruit.com/adabox019.md) - [Custom HID Devices in CircuitPython](https://learn.adafruit.com/custom-hid-devices-in-circuitpython.md) - [MacroPad Summer Olympics Hotkeys](https://learn.adafruit.com/macropad-olympic-hotkeys.md) - [MacroPad Braille Keycaps](https://learn.adafruit.com/macropad-braille-keycaps.md) - [Mindfulness Clock OF DOOM](https://learn.adafruit.com/mindfulness-clock-of-doom.md) - [DIY Decorative Resin Keycaps](https://learn.adafruit.com/diy-decorative-resin-keycaps.md) - [Keypad and Matrix Scanning in CircuitPython](https://learn.adafruit.com/key-pad-matrix-scanning-in-circuitpython.md) - [An Introduction to RP2040 PIO with CircuitPython](https://learn.adafruit.com/intro-to-rp2040-pio-with-circuitpython.md) - [Minecraft Turbopad](https://learn.adafruit.com/minecraft-turbopad.md) - [3D Printed Stand for MacroPad RP2040](https://learn.adafruit.com/3d-printed-stand-for-macropad-rp2040.md) - [Circuit Playground Express Automatic Sunglasses](https://learn.adafruit.com/circuit-playground-express-auto-sunglasses.md) - [Bluetooth Restroom Key Proximity Tracker](https://learn.adafruit.com/bluetooth-restroom-key-proximity-tracker.md) - [CircuitPython on the Arduino Nano RP2040 Connect](https://learn.adafruit.com/circuitpython-on-the-arduino-nano-rp2040-connect.md)