What Is Two-Factor Authentication? (And Why You Should You Use It)

Anything online can be hacked or breached, and two-factor authentication is one of the security tools people use to keep their accounts secure.

Two-factor authentication requires identity verification beyond simple login credentials, providing more protection from potential hacks. It gives you an extra layer of data protection that can mean the difference between identity theft and a safer online experience. 

We provide examples of 2FA, show you how this authentication method can increase your data security, and recommend the best password managers to encrypt your online passwords. 

What is two-factor authentication (2FA)?

Two-factor authentication (2FA) verifies your identity using two forms of identification before you can access certain accounts or resources. It’s a safeguard feature that gives you more security and control over your data. This method is a type of multi-factor authentication (MFA) because you must provide at least two factors to access a device or system resources. For instance, you might have to scan your fingerprint and enter a password to log in.

For example, you may have experienced 2FA without noticing when logging into your online banking. It often comes as a text code you must enter with your password to access your account. Or if you are required to enter your billing zip code before you can authorize a purchase. The extra step can be annoying, but it also makes it more difficult for hackers.

Why 2FA matters

Because of security risks like email phishing and other online scams, finding ways to keep your data secure is crucial. Using only passwords as a means of data protection is a weak way to keep your information safe. When internet hackers are trying to find a way to get your data, it’s more important than ever before to add extra protection where you can.

At first, you may find adding another step when you log into your account a bit irritating. However, without it, you won’t have another layer of data protection, and your information could be compromised.

Two-factor authentication is a quick process once you get accustomed to it. Enter your login credentials, then receive one of the authentication factors. Once you enter the code or use a biometric means of identification, you're all set. A couple of minutes can be a lifesaver when keeping your information safe.

How 2FA works

2FA works by using a combination of two different authenticators. It may be a password and a text or email code sent to your device. Alternatively, you may use your fingerprint and a password. This security method lets you access accounts with two of three authentication factors. Factors could be things you know, things you are, and things you have. Different kinds of 2FA may be used. We’ll go into more detail about these below.

Authentication factors

Authentication factors are simply bits of information required to verify your identity. If you’ve ever used authenticator apps, you’re familiar with this process, as it generates a code that can be used within a specific timeframe, usually less than one minute.

For instance, an authentication factor would be something you know, like a password. It may be something you possess, like a smartphone, or something you inherently have that no one else does, like a retina pattern or fingerprint.

An easy way to remember 2FA is that it requires a combination of two or three-second factors, such as:

• Something you have, like a badge, key fob, or mobile phone.
• Something you know, such as a password or personal identification number (PIN). These are also called knowledge factors.
• Something unique to you, like a fingerprint, voice recognition, or other passwordless authentication.

Two-factor authentication methods

You can use different types of two-factor authentication, but they all rely on the factors we’ve discussed. You will need two of the following to access your data.

• Hardware tokens are physical tokens, like a USB device inserted into your computer, before you can log in. Some tokens display a code to enter before accessing a resource.
• SMS and voice 2FA include text or voice messages sent to your phone number that contain a code you enter to access your account. These are one-time passwords (OTP) that expire after a set period.
• Software tokens must be downloaded. The website will send a code to that app that you enter before logging into the site.
• Push notifications are downloaded to an app on your phone. You’ll enter your login information to access a website, and a push notification gets sent to your device for you to enter before granting access.
• Biometrics verifies your identity with physical attributes like fingerprints or facial recognition.
• Location means that if you create an account in one state and then attempt a login in another, 2FA could require a location factor. These factors alert you and send a code to verify your credentials. If verification is not made, your account might get locked.

How to enable 2FA

Each website and app will have different directions for setting up two-factor authentication, but they should be pretty similar. Some websites allow you to activate 2FA through your account, and others give you the option to toggle the 2FA feature in your settings menu under your privacy options.

You can also download authenticator apps, such as Microsoft Authenticator or Google Authenticator, to your Android or Apple iPhone. These apps generate unique, time-based passcodes that change every 30 seconds or so. Using two-step verification with an authentication code helps prevent man-in-the-middle attacks that may try to intercept a verification code sent by voice or text message.

You’ll know 2FA is set up correctly because the lock icon should be turned on showing that it has been enabled. You can also test it out and try to access the websites and see if you must use a second step to verify your identification.

Should I use 2FA?

There are times when using 2FA may not be up for debate. For better security, many employers have implemented two-factor authentication. It may depend on a few factors if you have an option and are wondering if you should use 2FA.

If you’re concerned about a data leak, it makes sense to use two-factor authentication for the added layer of safety. Also, if you use social media, these platforms can make it easy for hackers to get your personal information and guess your passwords. There are also things to consider, like the dark web and email phishing, that can be huge cybersecurity issues.

2FA isn’t perfect, though, and you may not want to use it because it isn’t always convenient. Verifying your identity whenever you log into a device can sometimes be a pain. Also, if you use SMS-based authentication, you may want to reconsider. There are weaknesses associated with this factor, such as the codes not being encrypted. Overall, 2FA does increase your online security. If you’re not too bothered by the extra steps to access your accounts, it’s worth the time to get the added protection.

Password managers with 2FA or MFA

For even more online security, consider a top-rated password manager. Password managers help you create, store, and manage your passwords across multiple accounts and devices. Plus, your sensitive data is encrypted behind military-grade protocols. Here are our top recommendations based on our in-house testing:

FAQs

Bottom line

Many popular websites enable 2FA for better security protection. With account breaches being a huge problem, taking the extra step to enable two-factor authentication makes sense. Although not 100 percent secure, it increases account strength and gives you more protection than passwords. By adding two or more levels of protection to your online accounts, you get a boost of security, making it harder for cybercriminals to steal your data.

To increase your online security, you should consider implementing 2FA and using a password manager with strong encryption.