Multi-factor authentication (MFA) guide

Imagine your company's front door locked only by a simple latch. Easy to break into, isn't it? It's much the same with a one-time password.Multi-factor authentication, or MFA, adds several locks to this digital door.

Simply put, MFA is a method that requires several proofs of your identity before letting you access an account or application. It's no longer just "password accepted", but rather "prove to me that you're you" - via a code received on your phone, your fingerprint or a physical key, for example.

The different types of authentication factor

When we talk about MFA, we're talking about combining three types of factors to secure access to a system:

1. Knowledge factors

Something you (and only you) know:

• A password
• A secret question (often forgotten... let's be honest)

2. Ownership factors

Something you own :

• A smartphone with an app like Google Authenticator
• A security key (YubiKey type)
• A physical badge

‍

3. Inherence factors

Something you are:

• Fingerprint
• Facial or voice recognition

‍

Why is MFA essential for safety?

Cyber-attacks, phishing attempts and credential theft have become commonplace. And yet, over 80% of security breaches are due to a weak or compromised password.

With MFA, even if an attacker has your password, he'll still have to go through one or two extra steps to gain access to your data. In other words, a lot of attempts are put off.

And beyond the technical aspects, it sends a strong message that your organization is serious about data security and protecting the identity of its employees.

How does multi-factor authentication work?

Here's how it works, in simple terms:

1. User enters login + password.
2. He receives a temporary code (TOTP) or a notification on his phone.
3. He validates access via his device or a dedicated application.

Some solutions, such as Microsoft Authenticator, go a step further, offering password-free connections. The result: less friction, more security.

‍

The benefits of implementing MFA in your company

We could list all the benefits of MFA in a 30-page report, but here are the main ones:

• Enhanced security for user accounts, whether in the cloud or locally.
• Compliance with standards such as RGPD or ISO 27001.
• Significant reduction in phishing and spoofing attacks.
• Increased confidence, both internally and externally.

For IT and HR teams, the MFA becomes a strategic tool: it protects the digital identity of each employee while reinforcing the overall cybersecurity posture.

Challenges to anticipate when implementing an MFA solution

Let's face it, MFA isn't a magic button. Here are the main obstacles we've encountered:

• Resistance to change: some users may perceive this as a constraint.
• Technical constraints: not all tools or workstations are compatible.
• Special cases: how do you manage external service providers, guests or shared workstations?

rzilient tip: Clear communication, simple user guides and deployment support make all the difference.