Two-factor Authentication or 2FA is an enhanced security layer to your sign-in process for your devices, apps, and online accounts. There are three ways an 2FA sign-in verification functions – by entering physical codes from an app, approving sign-in with a click on an app or using your fingerprints scan on your phone.
How Does 2FA Protect You Against Cyberattacks?
Let’s assume you want to log-in to your Amazon account. For you to start shopping, all you need is your email address and password. It is the same for hackers. With 2FA in place, you will be required to approve your sign-in on another device (mostly your smartphone), so even if your sign-in credentials are compromised, no hacker can get into your account.
Some tools provide Two-Factor Authentication (2FA), and some provide multi-factor Authentication (MFA).
You could add 2FA protection to virtually any tools or software that you use in your business, including your email and accounting portal like QuickBooks.
Which Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) Tools Work Well in Canada?
In recent years, as a trusted Managed IT service provider for clients in Toronto, Canada, we have tested hundreds of 2FA tools. Duo, Microsoft Authenticator, Google Authenticator, Authy and LastPass are the ones that have proven most effective for Canadian small and medium-sized businesses.
Here is a quick overview and costs for our top 5 Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) Software For Canada.
Duo
Duo is designed for businesses of all sizes. It is engineered with a zero-trust policy mission and has the most intuitive interface for the users.
Google Authenticator
The Google Authenticator app is one of the most user-friendly 2FA app available. It executes 2-step authentication using unique 6-digit numeric verification codes. The Google Authenticator app works even when your phone has no data connectivity.
Microsoft authenticator
You can use Microsoft Authenticator to protect all your accounts with two-factor authentication including your Outlook, OneDrive, Microsoft Office, and more. The app makes 2FA process easier by asking you to enter only your username and confirm sign-in using your phone. You can use the Microsoft Authenticator for non-Microsoft accounts too.
LastPass Authenticator
LastPass Authenticator is another easy to use and affordable 2FA tool. It offers a unique user experience and gives you a choice to pick from 6-digit generated passcodes, SMS codes, and automated push notifications for one-tap login. LastPass Authenticator supports Android, iOS, and Windows.
Cost: Free download from App Store, Google Play and Windows Store.
Authy Authenticator
Authy Authenticator is easy to set-up and can sync all your devices like mobile, tablet and desktop. It has a user-friendly interface and supports Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, and Chrome browser. Authy also provides cloud backup.
To conclude, I would add that although most of the 2FA and MFA tools are free, I would strongly recommend taking an expert’s help for an organization-level execution. If you have questions about Multi-Factor Authentication, feel free to reach out to us at 905-474-4332 or email at [email protected].