What is Multi-factor authentication (MFA)?

What is Multi-factor authentication (MFA)?

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is a security process that requires users to provide multiple forms of authentication to verify their identity. The goal is to provide an additional layer of security beyond a simple username and password login. MFA typically requires users to provide two or more forms of authentication from different categories: something the user knows (such as a password), something the user has (such as a security token or smart card), or something the user is (such as biometric data).

MFA is used to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive data or systems. It is commonly used in online banking, e-commerce, and other applications where secure access is critical. MFA can significantly improve security by making it much more difficult for hackers to gain access to systems or data, even if they have obtained a user's login credentials.

While MFA provides a higher level of security than single-factor authentication, it does add additional complexity and may require additional time and resources for users to authenticate. However, the benefits of increased security often outweigh the inconvenience.

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