How does multi-factor authentication (MFA) differ from two-factor authentication (2FA)?

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is a security mechanism that requires users to provide two or more verification factors to gain access to a resource, which enhances security by adding layers of protection. This can involve multiple types of credentials, such as something the user knows (password), something the user has (a smartphone app or a token), or something the user is (fingerprint or facial recognition).

The distinction comes from the fact that while two-factor authentication (2FA) specifically involves two different factors for authentication, MFA can incorporate a broader range of factors, which can be more than two. This makes MFA a more versatile and robust security method, as it can involve several different types of authentication instead of being limited to just two.

Understanding this distinction is critical, especially in settings where sensitive information is involved, as it helps organizations protect against unauthorized access more effectively by utilizing a combination of different authentication requirements.