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Computer Security Resource Center

Computer Security Resource Center

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Multi-Factor

Abbreviation(s) and Synonym(s):

None

Definition(s):

  A characteristic of an authentication system or an authenticator that requires more than one distinct authentication factor for successful authentication. MFA can be performed using a single authenticator that provides more than one factor or by a combination of authenticators that provide different factors. The three authentication factors are something you know, something you have, and something you are.
Source(s):
NIST SP 800-63-3

  A characteristic of an authentication system or an authenticator that requires more than one distinct authentication factor for successful authentication. MFA can be performed using a single authenticator that provides more than one factor or by a combination of authenticators that provide different factors. The three authentication factors are something you know, something you have, and something you are.
Source(s):
NIST SP 800-63-3

  A characteristic of an authentication system or a token that uses more than one authentication factor. The three types of authentication factors are something you know, something you have, and something you are.
Source(s):
NIST SP 800-63-2 [Superseded]