two-factor authentication

noun

two-fac·​tor authentication ˈtü-ˈfak-tər- How to pronounce two-factor authentication (audio)
: a method of verifying the identity of a person (as for granting access to a system) by requiring a password and an additional form of authorization (such as a code, a fingerprint, or a smartphone app)
abbreviation 2FA
compare multi-factor authentication

Examples of two-factor authentication in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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The hack also underscores how two-factor authentication isn’t bulletproof. Michael Kan, PCMAG, 25 Mar. 2025 Enable two-factor authentication wherever it’s offered to add an extra layer of security that helps prevent unauthorized access even if your password is compromised. Kurt Knutsson, Cyberguy Report, Fox News, 25 Mar. 2025 Monitor for misuse: Enable two-factor authentication and watch out for phishing scams leveraging genetic info. Anisha Sircar, Forbes, 25 Mar. 2025 For customers, experts recommend changing passwords regularly, enabling two-factor authentication, and monitoring financial accounts for suspicious activity in the wake of such breaches. Russel Honoré, Newsweek, 5 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for two-factor authentication

Word History

First Known Use

1990, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of two-factor authentication was in 1990

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Cite this Entry

“Two-factor authentication.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/two-factor%20authentication. Accessed 11 Apr. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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