How does two-factor authentication work?

Two-factor authentication (2FA) is a security process that requires users to provide two different types of identification before gaining access to an account or system. Typically, these two factors fall into different categories: something you know (like a password), and something you have (like a smartphone or a hardware token), or something you are (such as a fingerprint or other biometric data). By combining two distinct types of verification, 2FA adds an extra layer of security beyond just a password. Here’s how 2FA generally works: after entering your username and password (the first factor), the system prompts you to provide a second form of verification. This might be a one-time code sent via SMS, generated by an authenticator app, or a biometric scan. Even if someone manages to steal or guess your password, they would still need the second factor — which is much harder to obtain — to successfully access your account. 2FA is considered more secure than password-only protection because passwords can be compromised through phishing, guessing, or data breaches. The additional verification step significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access since the attacker would need both your password and the second factor. This layered defense makes it much more difficult for cybercriminals to breach your accounts, protecting your personal information and sensitive data more effectively.