Why You Need Two Factor Authentication Technology For Your Accounts

Why You Need Two Factor Authentication

All businesses need some form of authentication for their systems, whether it’s for banking services, email, or any other online services. Typically, this takes the form of a username and password. All you have to do is enter both correctly, and you have access to whatever system you were trying to register.

As cybercrime technology advances, however, it is increasingly becoming the case that a simple username and password isn’t good enough to keep online systems safe. The solution is to implement what’s known as two-factor authentication across the board. Learn why you need two-factor authentication technology for your accounts.

What is Two-Factor Authentication?

Put simply, two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of protection on top of the username and password. After inputting the correct username and password, you’ll have to pass an extra layer of security to gain access. This additional layer is meant to be something that you can easily pass through, while more malicious entities will be locked out even if they manage to crack your password.

Two-Factor Authentication Types

Two-factor authentication can take many forms, and the best option will vary based on your unique needs. Verification codes are among the most common 2FA solutions, as they’re both easy and secure. A verification code would be a single-use code that’s sent to your phone via SMS message, for example, that you would input to gain access to a system. Not only does this keep cybercriminals out, but it can also alert you if anyone managed to crack your password by sending you a code that you didn’t request.

You’ll find additional methods of 2FA available as well. Personal security questions have been frequently used in password recovery systems, so many users are already familiar with how they work. With 2FA, you would be asked a personal question after entering your password, like what’s your first pet’s name or in what city were you born. As long as you don’t have a Wikipedia page and no one who knows you is trying to access your account, this is generally safe.

Finally, you can opt for biometric authentication. As Mike from BoomTech explains: “If you want to get a bit more advanced, 2FA can even incorporate a biometric pattern of your fingerprint, iris scan or voice print. It sounds complex, but it’s surprisingly easy to use.”

Benefits of 2FA

In addition to the added security, 2FA also offers your businesses a plethora of other benefits as well. For example, your workers can enjoy increased productivity thanks to their newfound access to essential accounts. With an extra layer of security, it’s no longer as risky for workers to access accounts on their mobile devices, meaning they can work on the go outside the office.

2FA also makes it easier for employees to know when their credentials are compromised. 2FA, by its nature, will give an alert when a sign-in was attempted. This makes it easier for workers to respond and change their credentials, putting any potential cyberattack back to the start. Remember, it can be hours and hours of work for an attacker to crack a password if you abide by the best practices, according to Scientific American.

2FA From BoomTech

At BoomTech, our mission is to offer the most advanced managed IT services you can find. While we can take care of all your IT needs, our 2FA solutions are state of the art. You know why you need two-factor authentication technology, so learn why BoomTech is your best option to find it. Contact us today!