Two factor authentication, often called 2FA, is a security process that requires users to provide two different forms of identification when signing in to an account. Instead of relying only on a password, 2FA adds a second step to confirm that the person attempting to log in is truly the account owner.

This second factor can come from something you know, such as a PIN, something you have, like a one time code sent to your phone or generated by an authentication app, or something you are, such as a fingerprint or face scan. By combining two independent verification steps, 2FA makes it much harder for attackers to break into an account, even if they manage to obtain the password.

Two factor authentication has become one of the most effective and widely recommended ways to protect personal information, financial accounts, and online identities. It adds a simple extra step that greatly increases overall security.