Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) is a security process that requires users to provide two different authentication factors to verify their identity. This adds an extra layer of security beyond just a username and password.
The two factors typically used are:
- Something you know: This is usually a password or a PIN.
- Something you have: This could be a physical device like a smartphone, a security token, or a one-time code sent via SMS or generated by an authentication app.
By requiring two forms of verification, 2FA significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access, even if one factor (like a password) is compromised.