Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
A security mechanism that requires multiple forms of identification to verify a user's identity
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is a security system that requires more than one method of authentication from independent categories of credentials to verify the user's identity.
Authentication factors include:
- Something you know (password, PIN)
- Something you have (security token, phone)
- Something you are (biometrics)
MFA significantly enhances security by adding additional layers of protection beyond just a password, making it much harder for unauthorized users to gain access.