Take Charge of Security With Two-Factor Authentication

As attacks by hackers become all too common, it is increasingly important to ensure that accounts and passwords are protected. Two-factor authentication (2FA) provides an extra level of protection to accounts and is an important security option that all companies should consider. If you have questions or would like to learn more, AE Technology Group would be happy to help.

What is Two-Factor Authentication?

Two-factor authentication provides a method for ensuring that accounts are safe, even if a password is hacked or stolen. In addition to use of a password, 2FA requires that the account holder provide an additional piece of data or information to confirm the account. While there are many options for the second authentication factor, three common choices are:

A piece of information unique to the user, such as a password or PIN;
A physical object owned by the user, such as a smartphone or token; or
A biometric indicator, most commonly fingerprints verified by a fingerprint reader.

When an account needs to be verified, the system will first require that the user enter their password and then request their second form of authentication. For example, after a password is entered, the system may generate a phone call to the user’s smartphone.

What Are the Benefits of 2FA?

The most obvious benefit to 2FA is security. In the password/smartphone example used above, a hacker would only gain access to the account if they knew the account password and had access to the associated smartphone. 2FA also allows for increased flexibility for workers. Without having to worry about the safety of their devices, they can work remotely and in more locations – allowing them to maximize their time and productivity.