What is the authenticator?

Its 2 factor authentication - so either an app you set up (such as Google Authenticiator or 1Password etc.)

You may be able to disable it via the old computer at https://www.dropbox.com/account/security

It's already turned off 😞

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davidsi wrote:

When I try and install dropbox, I get as far as entering my email/password and it asks me for the 6 digit code on the "authenticator".  I have no authenticator app I have used with dropbox.

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There are two types of multi-factor authentication that Dropbox uses. The first is referred to as two-step verification and it uses an authenticator app or hardware device. This is something that you would have set up on your own and doesn't get enabled automatically.

The other is referred to as a one-time security code and Dropbox will request one, sending it to the email you're registered with, when it detects a suspicious sign-in attempt on your account. This could also happen when you're signing in on a new computer. Basically any time Dropbox doesn't recognize you or the device you're signing in on, a one-time security code could be requested.

Have you checked your email (and spam folder) for such a code?