What are Two-Factor Authentication Settings for my iCloud account? Why do I need to enter a two-factor authentication code to login? I already provided my Apple ID and password.

When you try to login to iCloud account with a Web browser (or on a new Apple device), iCloud server will prompt you to go through the two-factor authentication process to double check your identity, even you have provided the correct Apple ID and password.

The two-factor authentication process follow these steps:

• Enter your Apple ID and password on the login screen.
• The server checks to see if you have any Apple device (iPhone or iPad) that are currently connected to your iCloud account.
• If connected devices are found, a notification is displayed on the device asking you to give permission for this login, followed by a verification code.
• If no connected device found, a text message with a verification code is sent to a trusted phone number listed in your account.
• Server displays the two-factor authentication prompt and wants for you to collect the verification code.
• Enter the the verification code to the two-factor authentication prompt.
• If everything matches, you are logged in.

If you don't have access to a connected Apple device, or a trusted number, then you need to use Apple account recovery process to login. So it's important to keep a connected Apple device with you, or set up multiple trusted phone number in your account.

If your Apple ID account is set to use the Two-Factor Authentication instead of answering security questions, you will be asked to enter a verification code delivered as a text message to you phone number recorded in your account.

Here are the steps to review Two-Factor Authentication settings in your iCloud account.

1. Go to "Apple Account" Website to review and manage settings.

2. Sign in and go through the Two-Factor Authentication process.

3. Click to open the "Sign-in and Security > Account Security" section. You see a list of trusted phone numbers and trusted devices as shown below:

⇒ Two-Factor Authentication Login Example

⇐ Apple Account Sign-In and Security Settings

⇑ Using iCloud with Browser

⇑⇑ Apple iCloud - Frequently Asked Questions