Two-Factor Authentication
Definition
Two-factor authentication is a security process that requires users to provide two distinct forms of identification to verify their identity.
Two-factor authentication, commonly referred to as 2FA, is a method of enhancing security by requiring a user to present two different categories of credentials before gaining access to an account or system. This approach adds an additional layer of protection beyond a single password, making it significantly harder for unauthorized individuals to compromise an account.
The two "factors" typically originate from different, independent categories of credentials. These categories generally include something the user knows (such as a password or PIN), something the user has (like a smartphone receiving a one-time code, a hardware token, or a smart card), and something the user is (biometric data such as a fingerprint, facial scan, or voice recognition). For successful authentication, a user must provide valid input from two of these distinct categories.
For example, accessing an online banking account might require a user to enter their password (something known) and then provide a temporary verification code sent to their registered mobile phone (something possessed). This security measure is widely implemented across numerous digital platforms, including email services, financial institutions, social media, and corporate networks, to safeguard sensitive data and prevent unauthorized access.