How does the authenticator work?

#0 - Aug. 31, 2010, 6:12 p.m.

Don't actually have an authenticator (I'll get one in a bit) but I've been trying to figure out how they work. From what I understand they're just a little keychain thingy with no connection to the intertubes - so how does Blizzard/Battle.net know that you entered a proper authenticator code?

What I'm trying to understand is how Battle.net knows that you didn't just smash your fist down on the keyboard or make a typo.

Harlsoco

#5 - Aug. 31, 2010, 6:30 p.m.

Q u o t e:

But does it work like a text message? Its just an LCD keychain

No, it does not work like a text message, Ostraka.

On the back of the authenticator is a serial number. This serial number is unique, meaning only one authenticator will have this particular number. When the serial number is attached to a Battle.net account, they “synchronize”, and the account will now recognize there is an authenticator attached.

When prompted for the 6-digit code, you would press the button on the authenticator, it would provide you a unique number, and you would use this number to access the account for that session. If for example you log into the game with one code, you would not be able to log into the website or the forums with the same code.

I hope this helps to clear up some confusion.