What is MFA?

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is an IT security method that requires the use of two or more different forms of authentication to verify a user's identity.

The term 2FA, two-factor authentication, is also used.

Why implement MFA? To strengthen security within your company by protecting access to an account or an IT system.

By combining these forms of authentication, MFA strengthens the security of accounts and sensitive data by requiring users to provide multiple proofs of identity to access their accounts.

Forms of authentication include:

1. Something you know: this could be a password, PIN, or answer to a secret question.
2. Something you have: this could be a physical device, such as a smartphone, smart card, or authentication token.
3. Something you are: this could be a biometric characteristic, such as your fingerprint, iris, or facial recognition.