Multi-factor authentication (MFA) works by requiring users to provide two or more types of identification when logging in:
- Something You Know:
- Something You Have:
- Physical or digital item like a mobile app, text message code, or hardware token.
- Something You Are:
- Biometric data like fingerprint, face scan, or iris pattern.
Process:
- User enters username and password.
- System verifies password.
- User provides an additional form of verification (code, biometric data).
- Access granted if all factors are verified.
MFA adds an extra layer of security, making it harder for unauthorized users to gain access even if one factor is compromised.