Question

Two-factor authentication methods are becoming widely used. Generate a two-factor authentication process that would use biometrics as one of the factors.

Answer 1

Two-factor authentication (2FA), sometimes referred to as two-step verification or dual-factor authentication, is a security process in which users provide two different authentication factors to verify themselves. This process is done to better protect both the user's credentials and the resources the user can access. Two-factor authentication provides a higher level of security than authentication methods that depend on single-factor authentication (SFA), in which the user provides only one factor -- typically, a password or passcode. Two-factor authentication methods rely on a user providing a password, as well as a second factor, usually either a security token or a biometric factor, such as a fingerprint or facial scan.

A biometric factor, is something inherent in the user's physical self. These may be personal attributes mapped from physical characteristics, such as fingerprints authenticated through a fingerprint reader. Other commonly used biometric factors include facial and voice recognition. They also include behavioral biometrics, such as keystroke dynamics, gait or speech patterns.

A time factor restricts user authentication to a specific time window in which logging on is permitted and restricts access to the system outside of that window.