What is multi-factor authentication (MFA)?

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is defined as a security measure that requires multiple forms of identification before granting access to a system or application. This approach significantly enhances security by requiring users to provide two or more verification factors, which can include something they know (like a password), something they have (such as a security token or smartphone), or something they are (biometric data like fingerprints or facial recognition).

This multi-layered strategy helps protect against unauthorized access, as even if one factor (for example, a password) is compromised, the additional factors offer extra protection. In contrast, single forms of ID verification, tools for managing passwords, and methods for encrypting data do not encompass the multifaceted approach characteristic of MFA. These alternatives focus either on individual elements of security or different aspects of data protection but do not integrate the layered verification method that defines MFA.