Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) is a security process that requires users to provide different forms of identification before gaining access to an account or system. This added layer of helps protect against unauthorized access, even if a password is compromised. The key components of 2FA include something you know, which is typically a or PIN that the user knows, and something you have, which can be a physical device, like a smartphone or hardware , that generates a one-time code or receives a verification message.
Common methods of 2FA include SMS or email codes, where a one-time code is sent via text or email that the user must enter to log in, and authenticator apps like Google Authenticator or Authy that generate time-based one-time (TOTPs) that change every 30 seconds. Additionally, biometric verification such as fingerprints, facial recognition, or retina scans can serve as the factor, while hardware tokens are physical devices that generate codes or connect to a computer to verify identity.
Despite its benefits, such as enhanced security and protection against phishing, 2FA can have drawbacks. Users may experience inconvenience due to the extra step required during login, and those without access to their factor, like a lost phone, may find themselves locked out of their accounts. Furthermore, if the second factor relies on SMS, it can be susceptible to or SIM swapping attacks, while some services may not support 2FA, limiting its use for all accounts.
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