Three-Factor Authentication – The Future Technology

Multi factor authentication improves access control over a single password solution. Single-factor security systems simply cannot give full protection to individuals against malware, data leakage or password hacks. Such imperfect situations require deft handling and use of appropriate technology developments. This involves the use of multi-factor authentication.

Verification generally involves three things and these are:

• Information, like password and username
• Hardware pieces like key fob or phone
• Identity, like fingerprint scan

In single-factor authentication, you will require only one of these things to verify your identity. Secret questions are common examples of this scenario. You being the one to provide the answers, this is one factor consideration. Multifactor verification is quite popular with large organizations, especially financial institutions. The most common scenarios involve sending temporary keys. This will reach your e-mail address, dongle or the phone to verify your identification.

You will have to input this along with password and username to enter. An example of this is use of PIN and ATM card together. The problem with this kind of arrangement is locking out from accounts in case you lose the means to receive temporary key. This is where biometrics as an additional factor allows for something more foolproof in a multifactor authentication scenario. Thumbprint scanners associated with laptops is an example of an additional factor to increase security. In the coming times, one will see more experiments with multi-factor identification with new and improved options coming up for organizations. Use of location as a factor is one possibility. It may use IP address, GPS location, or base station of Wi-Fi to authenticate identity.

Online behaviors, as research has proved, is a conclusive method of identification. However, maintaining accuracy without compromising privacy requires some hard work. As technology continues to develop, everybody realizes the futility of security afforded by password use. This necessitates the development of newer means to determine identity that are not only foolproof but also minimally invasive.

Computer security being highly complicated has to be something more than simple recommendations related to average users. The good news is that the new-age technology is making things more convenient, easier and more secure than ever before. For best results with identity verification and the implementation of latest technology make sure to visit http://www.crossmatch.com/.

About The Author

Benson Hedge is a pioneer in the field of biometric authentication and runs his own organization manufacturing security systems relating to this technology. He also likes to spread awareness about the many aspects related to the industry through the many informative articles he writes.

Crossmatch provides a variety of identity management solutions such as fingerprint biometric hardware, strong authentication software and developer tools.