What is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)?

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) — which includes two-factor authentication (2FA) and several other related mechanisms — is an electronic authentication method through which a device user is given access to a website or application only once they successfully present two or more data types (or factors) as an authentication mechanism. MFA often requires a user to further verify their identity after entering an account password (for example, by inputting a randomized code generated through a secondary device or application). The purpose of MFA is to mitigate the possibility of various cybersecurity risks to the authentication process that can stem from hacks or human error.