Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

What is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)?

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is a security mechanism in which access to a digital or physical resource requires more than one validation procedure to provide additional layers of protection.

MFA goes beyond just a password. It requires users to provide multiple login credentials to confirm their identity. What is the purpose of multi-factor authentication? Rather than relying solely on a username and password, which can be guessed, stolen, or hacked, this extra step is designed to ensure that even if one piece of evidence, such as a password, is compromised, unauthorized access is prevented.

MFA authentication plays an important role in zero trust, a data-centric cybersecurity strategy that assumes no end-user, computing device, web service, or network connection is free from pretense – even when an access request originates from within the organization’s own network perimeter.

Table of Contents Table of Contents

1. What is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)?
2. Key Takeaways
3. MFA Importance
4. How MFA Works
5. Types of Multi-factor Authentication
6. MFA and Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
7. MFA Examples
8. MFA Pros and Cons
9. The Bottom Line
10. FAQs

Show Full Guide

Table of Contents

1. What is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)?
2. Key Takeaways
3. MFA Importance
Show Full Guide
4. How MFA Works
5. Types of Multi-factor Authentication
6. MFA and Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
7. MFA Examples
8. MFA Pros and Cons
9. The Bottom Line
10. FAQs

MFA Importance

MFA makes it more difficult for attackers to access a computing system with one form of login credential obtained by brute force, dictionary attacks, or phishing. A layered approach to authentication requires approval from two or more distinct authentication factors. This protection helps prevent unauthorized access, reduce fraud, and protect sensitive data from cyberattacks.

So, why use MFA? MFA is essential as cybercriminals become increasingly more sophisticated. They often rely on methods such as phishing attacks to steal users’ login credentials. Passwords alone can be weak, reused, or compromised through these attacks. Adding MFA ensures that if a password is exposed, an additional layer of security stands in the way of an unauthorized user gaining access to the account. Even if a hacker has the password, they won’t be able to log in without providing additional verification.

Certain industries must comply with strict security regulations, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) or Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), to protect users’ data, requiring MFA. Organizations that handle sensitive information can face significant penalties if they fail to implement adequate security measures.

Organizations can use MFA alongside antivirus software, firewalls, and virtual private networks (VPNs) to protect their computer networks and systems.

How MFA Works

MFA works by requiring a user to present two or more pieces of evidence (factors) when logging in.

Commonly used authentication factors rely on three categories of credentials:

• Something you know (like a password or a PIN).
• Something you have (such as a smartphone, security token, or smart card).
• Something you are (for instance, a fingerprint, facial recognition, or other biometric data).

For example, the user may first be asked for a username and password – and then be required to enter a randomly generated, time-sensitive personal identification number (PIN) sent in a text message or provided by a mobile authentication application. Some approaches to MFA also include location awareness.

When these elements are combined, it becomes significantly harder for an attacker to gain unauthorized access to an account, even if they have access to one piece of information. The more factors involved, the more secure the process becomes. MFA can involve two, three, or more layers, although two is the most common.

What authentication factors are commonly used for multi-factor authentication? And what is an MFA code?

Common methods include:

• SMS/email codes
• Authenticator apps
• Push notifications
• Biometrics
• Hardware tokens

Multi-factor authentication services and software providers include Google, Microsoft, LastPass, Okta, and WatchGuard.

MFA Process

Types of Multi-factor Authentication

MFA authentication supports physical, logical, and biometric security.

MFA and Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

What is the difference between MFA and 2FA? Although the terms multi-factor authentication and two-factor authentication (2FA) are often used interchangeably, there is a slight difference between them.

While 2FA is technically a form of MFA, it specifically refers to a system using two forms of authentication, for example, entering a password and then using an authentication app to verify the login. Multi-factor authentication means going beyond two factors to require additional forms of verification.

MFA Examples

Real-world multi-factor authentication examples in action include:

• Online banking: When logging into your bank account website or app, customers may be asked to enter their password and then a code that is sent to their mobile device to gain access. Some banks also implement biometric authentication like facial recognition or fingerprint scans.
• Social media accounts: Many social media platforms, such as Facebook and Instagram, require MFA through an authentication app or SMS codes.
• Workplace systems: Businesses often require employees to use MFA security to verify their identity. They may need to use a push notification on a mobile app or a physical security key to log their computers into the company’s virtual private network.

MFA Pros and Cons

The Bottom Line

The definition of multi-factor authentication is a form of digital security that requires multiple methods of verifying a user’s identity before granting them access to an account or system. MFA is one of the most effective ways to secure online accounts and sensitive user information.

By requiring users to provide two or more forms of authentication, MFA reduces the chances of unauthorized access by other users or cybercriminals.

FAQs