While cyber security has been a pressing issue for businesses everywhere over the past decade, its importance has grown immensely over the past few years due to the advancement of technology and the increase in cyber-attacks. With that, more and more technology platforms, software, devices, and businesses now require two-factor authentication (2FA) or multi-factor authentication (MFA) as a critical security measure.

In fact, Microsoft reported way back in 2019 that 2FA/ MFA blocks 99.9% of account hacks. And that was years ago when the 2FA/MFA process wasn’t as sophisticated as it is today.

Now, over the past year, we’ve heard a lot of business owners and team members complaining about the annoyance of this process. But today, we’re uncovering what it is exactly and why it’s important to get over the surface annoyance and implement it in your business. 

Ready to take some notes? 

What is Multi-Factor Authentication & How Does It Work? 

Multi-factor authentication adds an extra layer of protection by requiring two or more forms of identification, such as a code from email or cellphone or a fingerprint, before granting access to sensitive data or systems. The key here to adding that extra layer of security is requiring not only the password but something the user has on them, which a fingerprint is a literal option, or a physical item in their possession. 

While it may seem like additional work for users, 2FA/ MFA are actually designed to make life simpler and reduce the chances of falling victim to theft or hacking. By adding this extra layer of security, businesses can rest assured that their data is better protected. 

Plus, in a lot of cases, it can also provide faster logins since the user only needs to input a single verification code instead of typing out their password each time they log in! 

What Are the Benefits of MFA?

Security

The main benefit of MFA provides a second layer of security for businesses that helps prevent unauthorized access to sensitive data or systems. It ensures that only the right people have access while also reducing the risk of phishing scams, identity theft, and other malicious activities. 

MFA is especially beneficial because it protects against unauthorized access even if passwords are stolen or exposed. Additionally, it allows users to securely authenticate remotely without adding any layers of complexity. 

Controlled Access

While this falls under security, it’s a good thing to call out. You can implement MFA for individual software programs and files. This way, you can control who in the organization or outside the organization can gain access to confidential or sensitive information.

Increased Customer Trust

Furthermore, by integrating 2FA into business security measures, companies can increase customer trust and engagement since they fully understand their sensitive data is protected!

How to Set Up MFA for Your Small Business

Setting up multi-factor authentication for your business is a great way to strengthen its security, and it’s simpler than the internet makes it out to be, honestly. 

Depending on your setup, users will be prompted to provide an additional code sent via email, text message, or generated by an app-based authenticator such as Google Authenticator, Thomson Reuters Authenticator, or Authy. 

It can literally be set up in minutes!

Don’t Let Your Business Fall Victim to Cyber-Attacks

The moral of the story is strong cyber security should be a priority for every business owner, IT Director, and CEO out there, and one of the best ways to protect your business is by implementing two-factor authentication or multi-factor authentication. And it’s easier than you think.

Most of the technology we sell at iNetSupply.com provides a simple setup of 2FA/ MFA for your team. With over 60% of small businesses going out of business within 6 months of succumbing to a cyber-attack, it’s more important than ever to protect your data, your IP, and your business. Your security is our top priority! 

Questions about tech for your small business and how to get MFA set up for your team? Our team is on chat all day long. Let’s get into it!