Monitekijätunnistus

Monitekijätunnistus, often abbreviated as MFA or two-factor authentication (2FA), is a security process that requires users to provide two or more verification factors to gain access to a resource such as an online account or a remote network. This approach significantly enhances security compared to traditional single-factor authentication, which relies solely on a password.

The primary goal of monitekijätunnistus is to create a layered defense system. Even if one factor is compromised, such as a stolen password, the unauthorized individual would still need to overcome at least one additional verification method to gain access. This makes it much harder for attackers to breach accounts.

Commonly used verification factors fall into three categories: something you know (like a password or PIN), something you have (like a smartphone, hardware token, or smart card), and something you are (like a fingerprint or facial scan, known as biometrics). A typical MFA setup might involve a user entering their password (something you know) and then using a code sent to their registered mobile phone (something you have) to complete the login.

MFA is widely implemented across various online services, including email providers, banking applications, and social media platforms, to protect user data and prevent unauthorized access. Its adoption is considered a critical step in modern cybersecurity practices.