What is two-step verification?

Two-step verification is a security process that enhances the protection of user accounts by requiring two distinct forms of identification before granting access. This typically involves a combination of something the user knows, such as a password, and something the user possesses, like a smartphone or hardware token that generates a one-time code.

The primary goal of two-step verification is to add an extra layer of security to the authentication process. Even if an attacker were to obtain the password, they would still need the second form of identification to gain access, significantly reducing the risk of unauthorized access to accounts.

By utilizing two different factors for verification, organizations ensure that the security measures are more robust than relying solely on a password, which can be compromised through various means.