Two-factor authentication: an indispensable tool for data security, also within the company

Two-factor authentication is one of the most effective security systems for protecting our accounts, whether private or corporate. However complex it may be, relying on a single password is no longer sufficient today for guaranteeing exclusive, secure access to web accounts, especially if they contain confidential or sensitive data. Strong authentication, indeed better known as two-factor authentication, comes to our aid specifically in this regard, providing double (sometimes even triple) security and hacker-proof account protection.

In this article we’ll take a detailed look at what it is, how it works, and why it’s important to apply two-factor authentication also – and especially – to company accounts.

What does two-factor authentication mean?

Secure access to any digital device, an application, a website, but also an ATM machine, firstly requires entering a username and – secondly – the authentication phase, which can take place in three different ways (or factors in jargon):

• knowledge factor: entering a password or code that the user knows;
• possession factor: using a token or application that the user has which generates temporary codes:
• inherent factor: recognition of biometric data (face, fingerprint, voice).

When access is through only one of these methods, it is referred to as single-factor authentication. When at least two of the described methods are used, it is instead referred to as multi-factor authentication.

Two-factor authentication (2FA) – often also called multi-factor authentication (MFA) – is currently the most secure protection system for all those accounts providing access to sensitive data. Initially used only for banking applications, it is now also implemented on email accounts and in cloud services, while it should be used to access any web application that requires a higher level of protection. This is why it is crucial for companies – whether large or small – to know how it works and use it for corporate accounts.

How does two-factor authentication work?

As mentioned above, when accessing a web account using the two-factor authentication method, two steps are required.

The first step generally involves entering a password chosen by the user. The second involves the entry of a temporary code, or OTP (one time password), obtained from a physical device that generates it, from sending a text message or email, or from special applications on smartphones. Alternatively, the second step can involve biometric recognition.

Two-factor authentication is generally easily activated through the settings of an application or website. Unfortunately, however, it is not always available. This is why it’s important for companies to carefully choose the applications to be used for data storage and exchange. Using solutions that allow two-factor authentication is crucial to ensure security and protection. In fact, accessing an account using only a simple password makes it subject to vulnerabilities such as data leaks or hacker attacks, thereby exposing a company to very high security risks.

Two-factor authentication in Boolebox’s business solutions

Making and offering functional and hacker-proof tools has always been our primary goal. From Password manager to File Transfer, from Secure Email to Secure File Manager, all Boolebox solutions allow the fast, easy activation of two-factor authentication.

It’s simple: change the account settings and follow the instructions provided by the application.

Using Boolebox solutions for corporate data management is in itself a guarantee of high security and protection, while the possibility of activating strong authentication is certainly a significant further advantage.

For more information on our solutions or regarding two-factor authentication and how to apply it in your company, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our experts are available to help.