Uplay sometimes encounters issues when it doesn’t accept the Google Authenticator code on Windows 11. This can be frustrating when trying to log in or verify your account securely. Fortunately, there are several straightforward ways to fix this problem.
This guide will walk you through simple yet effective steps to resolve the Google Authenticator issue on Uplay. You don’t need to be a tech expert to follow along.
Each step is explained clearly, so you understand why it’s necessary and how to perform it correctly. Let’s get started and get you back into your games quickly.
Follow these solutions from the easiest to more advanced to avoid unnecessary complications.
Quick Note: What to Check Before Starting
Before diving into fixes, ensure you have these basics checked:
- Correct Time on Your Device: Google Authenticator codes rely on your device’s time. If your PC’s clock is off, codes won’t work.
- Updated Uplay Client: An outdated Uplay app can cause compatibility issues.
- Stable Internet Connection: Network problems can prevent verification.
- Correct Authenticator App Setup: Confirm you are using the official Google Authenticator app or a trusted alternative.
Step 1: Sync Your Windows 11 Time Settings
Google Authenticator generates time-based codes. If your Windows 11 system clock is inaccurate, the codes won’t match what Uplay expects.
- Click the Start button and open Settings.
- Go to Time & Language and then select Date & time.
- Make sure Set time automatically is turned on.
- If it’s already on, click the Sync now button under Additional settings to force synchronization.
- Restart your PC to apply changes.
This step ensures your authenticator codes are generated based on the correct time, which is crucial for successful verification.
Step 2: Update the Uplay Client
Running the latest version of Uplay helps avoid bugs and compatibility issues with two-factor authentication.
- Open the Ubisoft Connect (formerly Uplay) app.
- Click on the Menu icon (usually three horizontal lines).
- Select Settings and then click Check for Updates.
- If there’s an update available, download and install it.
- Restart the Uplay app and try entering the Google Authenticator code again.
Keeping the client updated ensures all security and authentication processes work smoothly.
Step 3: Reconfigure Google Authenticator for Uplay
Sometimes the link between Uplay and Google Authenticator gets disrupted. Re-adding the Uplay account in your Authenticator app can fix this.
- Log in to your Ubisoft account on the official website through a browser.
- Go to Account Settings and then Security.
- Disable two-factor authentication temporarily.
- Re-enable two-factor authentication and follow the instructions to scan a new QR code with Google Authenticator.
- Open your Google Authenticator app and add the new Uplay account using the QR code.
- Try logging into Uplay again with the new code generated.
This process resets the connection between your account and the authenticator app, ensuring codes match correctly.
Step 4: Clear Cache and Cookies in Your Browser
If you use Uplay through a browser or the Ubisoft website, cached files might cause issues with the authentication process.
- Open your browser settings (Chrome, Edge, or Firefox).
- Find the option to clear browsing data or history.
- Select to clear Cookies and Cached Images from at least the last 24 hours.
- Restart the browser and try logging in again.
Clearing cache removes outdated files that could interfere with login and authentication.
Step 5: Use Backup Codes or Alternative Authentication Methods
Uplay provides backup codes when setting up two-factor authentication. If Google Authenticator isn’t working, these codes can help you access your account.
- Locate your backup codes saved during setup. These are usually a set of 8-digit codes.
- Use one backup code to log in when prompted for the Google Authenticator code.
- Once logged in, you can reset or troubleshoot your two-factor authentication settings.
If you prefer, you can switch to another authenticator app like Authy or Microsoft Authenticator, which might work better on your device.
FAQs
Why is Uplay not accepting my Google Authenticator code?
Most commonly, it’s due to an incorrect time setting on your PC, outdated Uplay client, or a mismatch between the authenticator app and your Ubisoft account.
Can I use Google Authenticator on multiple devices?
Yes, but you need to set up each device individually using the QR code from Ubisoft’s security settings. Otherwise, codes may not sync correctly.
What if I lost access to my Google Authenticator app?
Use your backup codes to log in. If you don’t have those, contact Ubisoft support for account recovery options.
Do I have to disable two-factor authentication to fix this?
Disabling and re-enabling two-factor authentication can help reset your settings but try other fixes first to avoid temporarily lowering your account security.
Is there a way to prevent this issue in the future?
Keep your Windows time synced, update apps regularly, and always use official authenticator apps to minimize problems.
When Nothing Works
If you have tried all the above steps and Uplay still doesn’t accept your Google Authenticator codes, consider these final options:
- Contact Ubisoft Support: Visit the official Ubisoft support page and submit a ticket explaining your issue in detail.
- Account Recovery: Use Ubisoft’s account recovery tools if you cannot access your two-factor authentication codes.
- Reinstall Uplay Client: Completely uninstall and reinstall Ubisoft Connect to fix potential app corruption.
Using official support channels ensures you get the safest and most reliable assistance.
Conclusion
Fixing Uplay not accepting Google Authenticator codes on Windows 11 usually comes down to correcting your system time, updating software, or reconfiguring your authentication setup. Start with simple checks like syncing your PC clock and updating Uplay before moving to re-adding your authenticator or using backup codes.
Following these detailed steps carefully will help you regain secure access to your Ubisoft account without frustration. Remember to keep your security settings up to date to avoid future issues.