What is two-factor authentication?
Two-factor authentication may sound cumbersome, but it provides protection. We explain why “password + second factor” is more than just an IT tip these days - and how it can be used to effectively keep attackers out.
Published at
June 30, 2024
Anyone who works online - whether in the office or on the go - relies on usernames and passwords. Unfortunately, these are often the biggest gateway for attacks.
What's more, even strong passwords can fall into the wrong hands - e.g., through phishing, data leaks, or malware. Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security to the login process. Instead of just “knowing” something (your password), you also need to “have” something – e.g., a smartphone, a password safe where you receive a one-time code, or a small device (token) that generates this code.
The idea behind this is simple: if an attacker knows your password, that alone is no longer enough to gain access.
This is how 2FA works in practice:
- You log in as usual with your username and password.
- You will then be asked to enter an additional code – this will either be displayed via an app (e.g., Microsoft Authenticator) or sent to you via text message.
What sounds like a lot of effort is actually part of everyday life.
2FA is now standard in many online accounts—from Microsoft 365 to banking to email. And the extra step rarely takes more than five seconds.
For us, 2FA is nothing special, it's normal. For our systems, for customer access, for everything that's important.
Because security doesn't have to be complicated. It just has to be done.
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