Two-factor authentication (2FA) is a security process that requires users to provide two different types of identification to verify their identity when logging into an account or service. This adds an extra layer of protection beyond just using a password. The two factors generally fall into different categories:
Something you know: This is usually a password or PIN.
Something you have: This could be a mobile device, a hardware token, or a one-time code sent via SMS or generated by an authentication app.
By requiring two forms of authentication, 2FA reduces the risk of unauthorized access, even if the user's password is compromised