Multi-factor authentication: What it is and why it’s necessary

To put it simply: Having a strong password just isn’t enough security any longer – you need multi-factor authentication, or MFA.

There are so many cyberattacks out there now, and they are on the rise. In fact, globally, there are more than 1,000 cyberattacks each day.

And many of these attacks could be stopped by using multi-factor authentication.

So, what is MFA? It’s an electronic authentication method that asks the user to give more than one type of identify verification before accessing something like a website, app or network. Sometimes, its answering an extra security question, or entering a PIN. Sometimes, it is using the phone connected to your account and entering a texted code. Another type of MFA involves biometrics: A retina scan or fingerprint.

Two-factor authentication uses two checks; MFA requires two or more checks. Meaning, it’s stronger but not always more difficult to put into place.

So, why is it important? It protects your organization against identity theft. Passwords can be stolen or guessed. And chances are, your employees are using passwords like Dog123 to log in; rarely are complex passwords utilized (namely, because they are hard to remember!).

If your company has remote work, MFA can also help with employees using multiple devices to log in – or using unsecure WiFi connections. It provides that extra layer of protection.

It also is a boost to your current security measures, like firewalls and anti-virus software. And it can alert you to pending attacks if you or your employees are getting asked to provide information they didn’t ask for.

Generally, multi-factor authentication is relatively cheap and easy to use but the level of protection it provides might be priceless.

Quality PC

At Quality PC, we can help you with multi-factor authentication or MFA. Contact us today.