What is authentication factor in MFA?
What is an Authentication Factor in MFA?
Each Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) implementation uses authentication factors which serve as identity verification information for user access permission. Multi-Factor Authentication demands authentication elements belonging to distinct groups to boost security measures.
Why is MFA Important?
MFA provides users with enhanced protection as its main security advantage. MFA increases security by providing a defense against brute force attacks which steal login credentials through passwords and usernames. MFA uses both thumbprint or physical security key authentication requirements to defend users from unauthorized access and cyber threats.
How Does MFA Work?
MFA functions as an authentication system that requires verification methods above password entry. MFA authentication systems use One-Time Passwords (OTP) as one of their most common features that deliver 4-8 digit temporary codes through authenticator apps or SMS texts or email messages. MFA uses an OTP which depends on seed values set during registration and operates on either time counts or cycle increments.
Three Main Types of MFA Authentication Methods
Knowledge (Something You Know)
- Passwords or PINs
- Security questions
- OTPs (if manually entered)
Possession (Something You Have)
- OTPs sent via SMS, email, or authenticator apps
- Physical security keys (e.g., USB keys, smart cards, fobs)
- Software tokens and digital certificates
Inherence (Something You Are)
- Biometrics (fingerprints, facial recognition, iris scanning)
- Behavioral patterns (typing speed, voice recognition)
MFA Examples
- Using a password (Knowledge) + OTP from an authenticator app (Possession)
- Fingerprint scan (Inherence) + smart card (Possession)
- Facial recognition (Inherence) + PIN (Knowledge)
By combining multiple factors, MFA significantly strengthens security, making it much harder for attackers to compromise accounts.