How Does Multi-Factor Authentication Enhance Security?

In addition to the global pandemic, 2020 presented a number of complex cybersecurity challenges that made it difficult for the world to handle. 

With over 37 billion compromised data records disclosed in 2020, the number of data breaches is still on the rise several years down the road. Users frequently attempt to strengthen the security of data by resetting their passwords in an effort to protect themselves from a data breach. However, passwords may not always be sufficient to protect personal information. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) enters the scene at this point. One of the most popular solutions to address the usual problems with passwords is MFA (Multi-Factor Authentication).

What is Multi-Factor Authentication

To be able to reach a resource like an application, an account online, or a VPN, the user must submit two or more verification elements, which is known as multi-factor authentication (MFA). An effective identity and access management (IAM) policy must include MFA as a fundamental element. MFA demands one or more extra verification elements in addition to a username and password, which lessens the possibility of a successful cyberattack.

How Does an MFA Operate?

The majority of MFA solutions won’t do away with usernames and passwords. Instead, they add another layer of verification to make sure only the right individuals are inside, and criminals are kept outside.

The standard MFA procedure is as follows:

  • Registration: A user certifies ownership of a device by linking it to the system, such as a cellphone.
  • Log in: An individual logs in by providing a username and password to a secure system.  
  • Verification: The system makes contact with the registered item for verification. Verification codes may ping from phones.
  • Reaction: With the validated item, the person completes the process. The following step is frequently entering verification codes or pressing a key button.

Some systems require this verification during sign-in, whereas others keep track of devices. You may not need to authenticate every time if you consistently log in using the same phone or computer. Verification may be necessary if you try to log in on a new computer or with the same device but in a new location. 

MFA is remarkably effective, despite its apparent simplicity. For instance, according to Microsoft, MFA prevents almost all account hacks. Your security could be greatly increased by taking this one small step.

Multi-factor Authentication Advantages

When it comes to data security, MFA is essential. It guards against potential data breaches, monitors employee accounts, and pushes hackers at away. Additionally, it safeguards users even if their login information is accidentally revealed. Let’s examine its main advantages in further detail.

  • Compared to 2FA, it offers more layers of security

Compared to 2FA, MFA offers more security layers. An enterprise can mandate that both customers and workers use passwords, Time-based One Time Passwords (TOTP), and Google Authenticator to prove their identity. They may ensure that the end-user is validated in this way.

The numerous security measures make sure that the customers requesting access are who they say they are. Even if hackers manage to steal one credential, they will still need to use another method to confirm identities. Companies that keep private information about customers should choose authentication methods that require more than two factors. This way they will also be able to gain and keep the trust of their customers.

  • It protects customer identity 

MFA is a great solution that helps to prevent identity theft and safeguards customer data. By using this method, an added layer of security is created to the regular username and password login’s security. Since TOTP is delivered either via SMS or an automated phone call, hackers will struggle to decipher it. To obtain a resource, an user demands two pieces of information. Authentication gains a sense of attentiveness thanks to MFA.

  • It is easy to implement 

By definition, multi-factor authentication is non-intrusive. It has no impact on an organization’s or institution’s other virtual spaces. Additionally, the client may easily learn how to utilize it because to its straightforward user interface.

  • Single Sign-On (SSO) solutions are supported by it

An SSO solution is included with an industry-compliant MFA. You are no longer required to generate numerous complicated passwords for various applications. By combining secondary authentication with SSO, the user’s identity is confirmed, and there is no longer a chance that data would be lost because of forgotten passwords. This improves security while simultaneously saving time.

2 Factor Authentication VS Multi-factor Authentication

Understanding the distinction between multi-factor authentication and two-factor authentication is essential. MFA demands two or more authentication factors in order to confirm the legitimacy of the user requesting access to the data. Depending on their needs, organizations may combine a variety of authentication elements.

Two-factor authentication is a subtype of MFA, which uses just two factors to authenticate users. All forms of multi-factor authentication are two-factor authentication, but not all forms of multi-factor authentication are two-factor authentication. Higher protection of your data and information is possible thanks to more layers of protection because there are fewer chances for hackers to get through. 

MFA for Office 365

Many cloud-based services, such as AWS or Microsoft’s Office 365 package, offer their own MFA options. Office 365’s primary authentication method is Azure Active Directory (AD). There are also certain restrictions. When it comes to the supplementary authentication method that users can use, for instance, you only have four basic choices: Microsoft Authenticator, SMS, Voice, and Oauth Token. Based on the options you want to have accessible and whether you want to restrict precisely which users will need to utilize MFA, you might also need to pay more on licensing.

Concluding Thoughts

Cybersecurity is becoming more and more important as businesses increasingly convert to becoming digital. Here, MFA becomes extremely significant since it provides improved and sufficient security against the theft and damage of a company’s crucial data.

Do you have further questions about cybersecurity and MFA? Don’t hesitate to contact our professionals for additional details and our solutions.