Types of multi-factor authentication (MFA)
Adaptive authentication
Adaptive authentication is a dynamic and flexible multi-factor authentication strategy that adjusts authentication requirements based on real-time assessments of user behavior and environmental factors. Like Risk-based authentication (RBA), it analyzes contextual elements, but it can take more sophisticated actions, such as learning from user patterns over time and implementing different responses based on threat intelligence.
Adaptive authentication can include machine learning algorithms that become better at recognizing normal versus suspicious activity as they collect data. For example, if a user’s login behavior aligns with historical patterns, they might only need to complete a simple verification step. However, if something unusual occurs, such as a login attempt from a rarely used device, the system may require stronger proof of identity, like biometric authentication or a push notification.
By using a constantly evolving and context-aware system, Adaptive authentication ensures high security without compromising the user experience, making it an essential component for organizations managing large-scale or high-risk environments.
Granular MFA
Flexible, granular MFA provides organizations with more control over how authentication policies are applied across different user groups, applications, or scenarios. This approach allows administrators to define security requirements based on roles, the sensitivity of data being accessed, or the location of the user.
For example, a company may require employees accessing sensitive financial records to complete three layers of authentication, while those accessing general email accounts might only need two. Similarly, certain geographic regions or time zones may trigger stricter authentication requirements due to a higher likelihood of fraud or cyberattacks.
Granular Active Directory MFA enables organizations to customize security settings to fit specific needs, optimizing the balance between convenience and protection. By tailoring MFA policies, businesses can ensure a higher level of security where necessary, without creating an unnecessary burden on users who do not need the same level of protection.
Risk-based authentication
Risk-based authentication (RBA) is a smart approach to MFA that evaluates the risk level of each login attempt before requiring additional verification.
RBA analyzes various contextual factors, such as the user’s location, device type, IP address, and behavioral patterns, to determine if a login attempt is out of the ordinary. If the system detects a higher-than-usual risk, it may prompt the user to complete additional authentication steps.
For instance, if a user usually logs in from a specific city but suddenly tries to access their account from a different country, the system will recognize this anomaly and may ask for a second factor, such as a one-time password or biometric verification.
By tailoring security requirements to the level of risk, RBA provides a balance between security and user convenience, only adding friction when necessary.
Enforce user logon restrictions with contextual access management
Traditional MFA
Traditional MFA relies on predefined methods for verifying a user’s identity, usually involving a fixed combination of factors like passwords and security tokens. This type of MFA does not adapt or change based on the risk level or context. Common implementations include:
Passwords and SMS Codes: Users enter their passwords and then input a one-time password (OTP) sent via text message.
Hardware Tokens: Physical devices that generate authentication codes are used alongside a password to authenticate.
Biometrics and PINs: Fixed biometric traits, such as fingerprint scans or facial recognition, paired with a password or PIN.
While Traditional MFA provides a robust layer of security compared to password-only authentication, it can add friction to the user experience. It does not account for the varying risk levels of different login attempts, which can make it less efficient in environments that require both security and usability.