What is Multi-factor authentication (MFA)?
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is an identity verification method that enhances security by requiring users to provide two or more verification factors when accessing an application, online account, or VPN. Unlike relying solely on a username and password, MFA combines different types of evidence to prove identity. Common MFA factors include:
- Knowledge (Something You Know):
• This includes passwords, PINs, or answers to security questions.
• Users provide information they know to authenticate. - Possession (Something You Have):
• Examples include one-time passwords (OTPs) generated by smartphone apps, sent via text or email, or stored on hardware tokens.
• Possession factors add an extra layer of security. - Inherence (Something You Are):
• Biometrics like fingerprints, facial recognition, or voice scans fall into this category.
• These unique physical traits verify identity.
MFA significantly reduces the risk of successful cyber-attacks, making it a crucial component of robust identity and access management policies
Read Microsoft’s MFA article: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/topic/what-is-multifactor-authentication-e5e39437-121c-be60-d123-eda06bddf661
Watch Microsoft’s MFA Video: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/videoplayer-nocookie/embed/RE4CQKG?pid=ocpVideo1&maskLevel=20&market=en-us
