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 browser data targeted includes session cookies which are a hacker favorite as they can be used to bypass two-factor authentication protections. Davey Winder, Forbes, 9 Dec. 2024 As one example, the company implemented mandatory two-factor authentication with physical security keys for all people who interact with T-Mobile systems, including all contractors in addition to employees. Lily Hay Newman, WIRED, 4 Dec. 2024 To further enhance security, enable two-factor authentication on your new account to add an extra layer of protection. Kurt Knutsson, Cyberguy Report, Fox News, 24 Nov. 2024 Which is why Microsoft, and other vendors, recommend the use of robust passwords and a password manager along with two-factor authentication as protection, or better still, the use of a passkey. Davey Winder, Forbes, 23 Nov. 2024 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

Dictionary Entries Near two-factor authentication

Cite this Entry

“Two-factor authentication.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/two-factor%20authentication. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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