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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Things such as a fallback password and/or two-factor authentication codes, even codes that are securely stored off device, for example. Davey Winder, Forbes, 22 Jan. 2025 Adding two-factor authentication offers an extra layer of protection by requiring both your password and another proof of identity, such as a one-time code sent to your phone, to access your account. Andreina Rodriguez, CNBC, 21 Jan. 2025 Use strong passwords and two-factor authentication. Christopher Elliott, USA TODAY, 17 Jan. 2025 Enable two-factor authentication wherever possible to add an extra layer of security to your accounts. 5) Beware of snail mail scams: While most people focus on digital threats, physical mail scams can also follow a data breach like this. Kurt Knutsson, Cyberguy Report, Fox News, 13 Jan. 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

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 30 Jan. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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