Two-Factor Authentication

What is Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)?

We use many passwords daily for different sites and devices, such as email, VPN, or social media accounts.

You probably already know it’s a bad idea to use the same password across multiple logins — if a cybercriminal gets hold of one, it can seriously compromise your IT security. Even if you create strong, unique passwords for each login, hackers can still sometimes intercept or steal your credentials.

That’s why many places today use two-factor authentication (2FA), which makes it much harder for hackers to break through security systems.

2FA is an extra layer of security when you log into your device or account.

This means that an identity thief or hacker cannot gain access with just your password alone. With 2FA, you add an extra step to your login process that verifies your identity. This can be done through SMS, email, an authentication app, and more.

How It Works

With two-factor authentication (2FA), as mentioned earlier, only you have access to your account.

Typically, after entering your regular password, you receive a code—often via SMS or an app—that you must enter to complete the login. Fortunately, you don’t have to enter two codes every time you check your email; usually, this is only required the first time you log in on a device.

If someone else tries to log in as you, you’ll get a notification—provided your two-factor authentication is enabled.

Two-factor authentication is the most effective way to prevent hackers from gaining access to your accounts.