
There’s and easy more powerful defense out there… enter Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
What is MFA?
Multi-factor authentication is based on the concept of requiring multiple forms of identification. It stops easy access with stolen credentials by requiring a second level of authentication after the user enters their username and password.
You’ve probably used MFA before, even if you weren’t aware of it. If a website has ever sent a numeric code to your phone for you to enter to gain access, for instance, you’ve completed a multi-factor transaction.
How Does MFA Work?
According to Duo, typically MFA transaction happens like this:
- The user logs in to the website or service with their username and password.
- The password is validated by an authentication server, and if correct, the user becomes eligible for the second factor.
- The authentication server sends a unique code to the user’s second-factor device.
- The user confirms their identity by approving the additional authentication from their second-factor device.
While the basic processes behind multi-factor authentication are generally the same across providers, there are many different ways to implement it, and not all methods are created equal.
Benefits of MFA
MFA can:
- Mitigate threats by providing an additional layer of protection
- Decrease the chance of end user identities (and, subsequently, their IT resources) becoming compromised
- Enable compliance with industry regulations such as PCI and HIPPA for privileged access to sensitive data
A Trusted Partner
With more and more users accessing their sensitive corporate accounts online, organizations are struggling to keep their sensitive information safe. Multi-factor authentication provides proven protection in a world of increasing threats. As a managed IT security services provider, OneNeck® IT Solutions is here to guide you, using a multi-layered approach, providing protection at every layer: from the DNS layer, to the network, to the endpoint. Contact us today to learn how to better safeguard your company’s valuable data.
Topic: NIST Framework Cybersecurity