Multi-Factor Authentication
Security requiring two or more verification factors to grant access.
Also: Multi-Factor Authentication
Definition
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is a security mechanism that requires users to provide two or more independent verification factors from different categories: something you know (password), something you have (phone or hardware token), or something you are (biometric). MFA dramatically reduces account compromise risk because stolen passwords alone are insufficient for access. Common implementations include SMS codes, authenticator apps (TOTP), hardware keys (FIDO2), and push notifications.
Example
“Logging into the company VPN requires both a password and a 6-digit code from the Microsoft Authenticator app, making the account highly resistant to credential theft.”
Synonyms
- multi-factor auth
- strong authentication
- two-step verification
Antonyms / Opposites
- single-factor authentication
- password-only login
Images
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Related Terms
- two-factor-authentication
- sso
- phishing
- zero-trust