MFA (multi-factor authentication) is a broader security framework that requires two or more verification factors from different categories to grant access. Unlike 2FA, MFA can involve three or more authentication layers.
Common Authentication Factors in MFA:
- Something You Know (Knowledge Factor)
- Password, PIN, security questions
- Something You Have (Possession Factor)
- Smartphone (OTP codes, authenticator apps), security key (YubiKey), smart card
- Something You Are (Inherence Factor)
- Fingerprint, face recognition, voice recognition
Examples of MFA:
Password + SMS Code + Security Key
Password + Authenticator App + Fingerprint Scan
PIN + Smart Card + Face Recognition