Types of Two-Factor Authentication
Posted: Wed Jan 22, 2025 5:32 am
Let's look at the existing options and their advantages so that you can make your choice.
Code from SMS or email
The most popular option is a one-time code sent to confirm access rights. It is often sent via SMS to the phone number specified during the registration procedure. Less commonly, mail is used.
Regardless of how the key is sent, the main purpose of two-factor control is to ensure that the person can be granted access to the resource.
Code Generator Application
Two-factor authentication is often used with the help of special applications nigeria whatsapp number database that enable key generation even if there is no Internet connection. They are installed directly on devices
for Android, Yandex.Key and Google Authenticator are suitable, for example;
to iOS 15 – previous programs, as well as MS Authenticator;
Windows can make friends with WinAuth;
macOS will use the built-in native StepTwo application.
Backup codes
This can be called a backup option for cases involving theft of a mobile phone, to which one-time keys for confirmation should be sent. During the protection setup period, users are provided with several backup codes for emergency needs. They will help to gain access to the account, disconnect from the problematic device, add another one. It is recommended to store such codes in a safe, separate place.
Biometric data
Such attributes of two-factor verification include fingerprint, voice, and facial recognition. The use of this method has become possible due to the expansion of smartphone capabilities. More complex use of biometrics – recognition by voice, iris, and behavioral characteristics of the user when typing is considered the highest level of skill.
However, it is important to remember that biometrics are considered very sensitive data. Being immutable, they not only authenticate the user, but also help identify him as a person.
Biometric data in two-factor authentication.Image by macrovector on Freepik.
Key on physical media
Physical tokens are considered one of the most reliable types of two-factor verification. These are separate USB devices that resemble keychains. They have processors and can make cryptographic codes that are automatically activated when connected to a PC. The choice of the required code may depend on the specific Internet platform. Google, for example, welcomes the hardware carrier of the FIDO U2F standard. The advantages of the token are obvious:
Code from SMS or email
The most popular option is a one-time code sent to confirm access rights. It is often sent via SMS to the phone number specified during the registration procedure. Less commonly, mail is used.
Regardless of how the key is sent, the main purpose of two-factor control is to ensure that the person can be granted access to the resource.
Code Generator Application
Two-factor authentication is often used with the help of special applications nigeria whatsapp number database that enable key generation even if there is no Internet connection. They are installed directly on devices
for Android, Yandex.Key and Google Authenticator are suitable, for example;
to iOS 15 – previous programs, as well as MS Authenticator;
Windows can make friends with WinAuth;
macOS will use the built-in native StepTwo application.
Backup codes
This can be called a backup option for cases involving theft of a mobile phone, to which one-time keys for confirmation should be sent. During the protection setup period, users are provided with several backup codes for emergency needs. They will help to gain access to the account, disconnect from the problematic device, add another one. It is recommended to store such codes in a safe, separate place.
Biometric data
Such attributes of two-factor verification include fingerprint, voice, and facial recognition. The use of this method has become possible due to the expansion of smartphone capabilities. More complex use of biometrics – recognition by voice, iris, and behavioral characteristics of the user when typing is considered the highest level of skill.
However, it is important to remember that biometrics are considered very sensitive data. Being immutable, they not only authenticate the user, but also help identify him as a person.
Biometric data in two-factor authentication.Image by macrovector on Freepik.
Key on physical media
Physical tokens are considered one of the most reliable types of two-factor verification. These are separate USB devices that resemble keychains. They have processors and can make cryptographic codes that are automatically activated when connected to a PC. The choice of the required code may depend on the specific Internet platform. Google, for example, welcomes the hardware carrier of the FIDO U2F standard. The advantages of the token are obvious: