multi factor authentication

Multi factor Authentication Pros and Cons

Last Updated on Monday, September 27, 2021 by ProsCons

We all have our identities in the digital world. Normally to access that identity, we use a password. And, we all know the importance of the password. Besides, if it gets stolen or forgotten then a lot of trouble might occur. So, the concept of Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is raised mainly for this main downside. MFA is the process of allowing access to a certain area or digital platform if the users provide more than one piece of evidence to prove their identity.

MFA is greatly utilized in scenarios where the security concerns are very high. However, most users or clients use one password for their identity. Once it is compromised then various problems may arise. So, especially we can use MFA for securities purposes. It assures that identity of the user is authentic. To make sure of this, it uses multiple authentication processes.

Now we move to the advantages and disadvantages of MFA

Pros of Multi-factor Authentication:

1. More Security:

Obviously, the main pros of MFA are safety and security. We cannot emphasize how important security is in the digital world and other sectors. So, with the increase of the technology standard, the level of security needs to increase. And, MFA just can provide additional security verification for assurance.

2. Assures the identity of users:

Password is just not enough to assure the identity of the user. Besides, it needs more than just that. It might be anything from fingerprint to facial recognition or even a one-time password (OTP). There can be stealing of passwords but other factors cannot. So, this will assure that the identity of the user is authentic.

3. A long term use:

We can use MFA for a fairly long period of time. Of course, at times it may need some maintenance but longevity is the key. You do not have to change the identification process and continue using them.

4. Easy deployment of the system:

There is no serious complication in implementing the system for MFA. And along with it, we can increase the security as well.

Also read: Pros and Cons of Verizon Fios

Cons of MFA:

1. Maintaining MFA is expensive:

As much as it provides additional security, the cost of maintaining it is also high. The startup cost and maintenance cost will increase the expense of any organization. For a small business, just implementation is hard, and maintaining is even harder.

2. Complicated use:
For MFA, users have to continuously give additional authentication every time they access the system. Once or twice it is good but providing authentication every time is very time-consuming and complicated.

As for our thoughts, we believe we should implement MFA. If you are thinking of using MFA in your system then please do so. Even Microsoft Office 365 has implemented the use of Multi-Factor Authentication. It only proves the importance of this system.

Of course, just implementing MFA would not solve all the security issues you might be facing. But the additional layer of security surely is a bonus. As already stated, Passwords are just not enough to secure all systems. It is too vulnerable. It might get stolen, cracked, or forgotten. MFA is the next level for security.

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