two-factor authentication

American  

[too-fak-ter aw-then-ti-key-shuhn] / ˈtuˈfæk tər ɔˌθɛn tɪˈkeɪ ʃən /

noun

Digital Technology.

1. a process of establishing identity and verifying permission to access an electronic device or computer network that requires two different forms of authorization, such as a password and a fingerprint scan. 2FA

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Etymology

Origin of two-factor authentication

First recorded in 1990–95

Example Sentences

The process works much like two-factor authentication on a banking website.

From Science Daily • Apr. 2, 2026

But she said the key is "prevention and education", including limiting personal information online, using strong passwords and two-factor authentication, and being cautious before sending money or personal images.

From BBC • Mar. 11, 2026

I’m not quite ready to blame our national loneliness epidemic on two-factor authentication and automated help desks.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 14, 2025

Yes, passwords if you have them, but just the caveat that a lot of things are two-factor authentication today.

From Barron's • Nov. 9, 2025

“I mean...I’d like it if all of you started using Tor, maybe set up some two-factor authentication on your devices, took some steps to protect your own privacy.”

From "Anger Is a Gift" by Mark Oshiro