Logic-Heavy 2FA Simulator
Experience a 100% Client-Side Time-based One-Time Password (TOTP) Algorithm
This is your simulated "Shared Secret" (Base32)
Code rotates in 30s
Enter the 6-digit code from the left to simulate a secure login event.
Understanding Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) Technology
Two-factor authentication (2FA) is a critical security layer used to ensure that people attempting to gain access to an online account are who they say they are. First, a user will enter their username and a password. Then, instead of immediately gaining access, they will be required to provide another piece of information. This simulator demonstrates the TOTP (Time-based One-Time Password) algorithm, the logic behind apps like Google Authenticator and Authy.
How This Simulator Works
This tool is built using pure JavaScript logic to simulate the RFC 6238 standard. It uses a "Shared Secret" and the current Unix time to generate a unique 6-digit code that changes every 30 seconds. Because the algorithm relies on time, both the server and the user's app can calculate the same code simultaneously without ever needing to communicate over the internet.
Step-by-Step Usage Guide
- Initialization: The simulator generates a random Base32 secret key. In a real-world scenario, you would scan a QR code to transfer this key to your phone.
- Observation: Watch the "Virtual Auth App" panel. Notice how the 6-digit OTP remains valid for exactly 30 seconds. The progress bar indicates the remaining life of the current token.
- Input: Type the current 6-digit number into the verification field. Accuracy is key—if the timer hits zero before you click verify, the code will expire.
- Validation: Click "Verify Identity." The simulator compares your input against the internally generated code using logic-heavy matching.
Why 2FA is Essential for Modern Web Security
Passwords are no longer enough. With the rise of data breaches and sophisticated phishing attacks, having a second factor ensures that even if a hacker steals your password, they cannot access your account without your physical device. The TOTP method is particularly secure because it is offline; even if you have no cell service or internet, your app can still generate the correct code.
Technical Integrity of This Tool
This simulator is designed as a logic-heavy, single-file solution. It handles the math of converting time-steps into HMAC-based tokens (simulated here for architectural clarity) and managing the UI state transitions. By using CSS Grid and Flexbox, the tool remains fully responsive, ensuring that security education is accessible on desktops, tablets, and smartphones alike.