Multi-factor Authentication (MFA)
Multi-factor Authentication (MFA) refers to a security system that requires the user to provide two or more pieces of evidence or factors to confirm their identity. Typically used in electronic computer authentication, these factors are something that the user knows, such as a password, something that the user has, like a physical card or a code sent to their smartphone, and something that the user is, which includes biometrics.
Understanding Multi-factor Authentication
This system adds an extra layer of security on top of the standard username and password authentication. Multi-factor authentication is useful because it makes it harder for attackers to gain access to personal data or resources. Even if an attacker manages to steal one type of authentication, they would still need the second type to gain access.
MFA plays a crucial role in the SC-900 Microsoft Security, Compliance, and Identity Fundamentals exam as a pillar of security and identity protection.
Examples of Multi-factor Authentication in Every Day Use
Most people are already familiar with the concept of Multi-factor Authentication, even if the name is unfamiliar. For instance, using debit or credit cards requires two factors: the card itself (something the user has) and the pin number (something the user knows). Another common example is when a user receives an SMS message for additional verification after inputting a password online.
Multi-factor Authentication in Microsoft Azure
Microsoft provides multi-factor authentication services in Azure Active Directory (Azure AD) to help secure access to data and applications. It’s simple to set up and use. Once enabled, the user must provide additional verification to confirm their identity during sign-in.
Azure MFA supports the following methods for additional verification:
- Notifications through a mobile app.
- Verification code from a mobile app.
- Verification code received via SMS.
- Automated voice call.
Companies can choose to enforce MFA for all users or just specific ones. It can also be done on a conditional basis, for example, only for access attempts from unfamiliar locations.
Implementation of MFA in Azure Active Directory
To enable MFA in Azure AD, the following steps are typically needed:
- In Azure portal, go to the “Azure Active Directory.”
- In the left-hand menu, select “Security.”
- Click on “MFA.”
- Select the users for whom you want to enable MFA and click on “Enable” under the quick steps.
- One can also enforce MFA on a condition, for example, only when the user is trying to access from an unknown location. This can be done under the conditional access policy.
Drawbacks of Multi-factor Authentication
Adding an additional layer of security through MFA also has some drawbacks:
- Commonwealth: The most common issue is the inconvenience experienced by the user due to the extra step required during authentication.
- Dependency: Users must have their authentication medium, like mobile devices, on them at all times.
- Complexity: Some users might find the process confusing and complex, leading to increased support calls.
- Limitations: Biometric readers, such as fingerprint or iris scanners, may not work properly in certain environmental conditions.
Despite these potential drawbacks, the value gained from the significantly improved security makes MFA a fundamental part of any identity and access management (IAM) strategy in today’s digital era. As such, Microsoft’s SC-900 exam places significant emphasis on understanding and effectively implementing MFA in different scenarios.
Practice Test
True/False: Multi-factor authentication (MFA) only uses two types of authentication methods.
- True
- False
Answer: False.
Explanation: MFA can use two or more independent credentials for verification. These are categorized into something you know, something you have, and something you are.
Multiple Select: Which of the following are types of factors used in multi-factor authentication (MFA)?
- a) Something you know
- b) Something you are
- c) Something you have
- d) Something you remember
Answer: a) Something you know, b) Something you are, c) Something you have
Explanation: MFA uses these three types of evidence or factors in a security system. Option d is not a separate factor, it usually falls under “something you know”.
True/False: It’s safe to use MFA over public Wi-Fi.
- True
- False
Answer: True.
Explanation: MFA provides more security as it requires more than one form of verification. Therefore, even though public Wi-Fi isn’t very secure, using MFA mitigates some of that risk.
Single Select: The “something you have” in MFA could be:
- a) Your fingerprint
- b) A physical token
- c) Password
- d) Security question
Answer: b) A physical token
Explanation: A physical token acts as a type of “something you have”. Other types of “something you have” can include a smart card or a key fob.
Multiple Select: Multi-factor authentication helps to secure your personal information by:
- a) Requiring more than one form of authentication
- b) Encrypting your data
- c) Making it harder for unauthorized users to access your information
- d) Storing your password securely
Answer: a) Requiring more than one form of authentication, c) Making it harder for unauthorized users to access your information
Explanation: While MFA can’t encrypt data or store passwords (this is up to the overall security system, not just the authentication process), it does require multiple forms of authentication, which makes it difficult for unauthorized persons to gain access.
True/False: Multi-factor authentication is a type of security process that requires multiple forms of identification from the user.
- True
- False
Answer: True
Explanation: MFA indeed requires the user to provide two or more verification factors to gain access to a resource such as an application, online account, or a VPN.
Single Select: MFA is an effective defense against:
- a) Phishing attacks
- b) DDoS attacks
- c) Ransomware attacks
- d) Malware distribution
Answer: a) Phishing attacks
Explanation: MFA is particularly effective against phishing attacks as these typically rely on stealing single pieces of information, such as passwords. MFA requires more than just a single piece of information for access.
Multiple Select: Biometric verification is an example of:
- a) Something you know
- b) Something you are
- c) Something you remember
- d) Something you have
Answer: b) Something you are
Explanation: Biometric verification uses unique biological traits and therefore, falls under the category of “something you are”.
True/False: Using MFA can make it easier for hackers to breach a system.
- True
- False
Answer: False
Explanation: MFA actually makes it harder for unauthorized users to gain access by requiring multiple forms of identification.
Single Select: What does MFA stand for?
- a) Multi-Factor Authorization
- b) Multi-Factor Authentication
- c) Multi-Function Authentication
- d) Multi-Function Authorization
Answer: b) Multi-Factor Authentication
Explanation: MFA stands for Multi-Factor Authentication which is a security system that requires more than one form of authentication from independent categories of credentials to verify the user’s identity for a login or other transaction.
Interview Questions
What is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)?
MFA is a method of verifying a user’s identity by requiring them to present two or more pieces of evidence, or factors. These factors typically include something the user knows (a password), something the user has (a security token), and something the user is (a fingerprint or face recognition).
What is the primary purpose of Multi-Factor Authentication?
The primary purpose of MFA is to enhance the security of user accounts by adding an additional layer of protection, making it harder for attackers to gain access to a user’s information.
How does MFA increase security within a system compared to single authentication?
MFA increases security because even if an attacker manages to steal one of the authentication factors (such as a password), they still need the other factor (like fingerprint recognition or a security token) to access the system. This makes it much more difficult for an attacker to gain unauthorized access.
Where can we use Multi-Factor Authentication in Microsoft services?
We can apply MFA to a variety of Microsoft services including but not limited to Azure AD, Microsoft 365, Intune, and Dynamics 365.
How does Azure Multi-Factor Authentication work?
Azure MFA works by requiring two or more authentication methods for a user. These could be a combination of something the user knows, something the user has, and something the user is. For instance, the user could be asked for a password (something they know) and then prompted for a code sent to their mobile device (something they have).
In what scenarios is Multi-Factor Authentication recommended by Microsoft?
Microsoft recommends MFA in any scenario where an increased level of security is needed. For example, for tasks that expose sensitive data, MFA can add an added layer of protection. Additionally, Microsoft recommends MFA for any administrators who have privileged access.
What are the common methods used in Multi-Factor Authentication?
Common methods used in MFA include passwords, security tokens, smartcards, biometrics such as fingerprint or face recognition, and mobile app notifications.
What role does biometrics play in MFA?
Biometrics act as a third layer of security in MFA. This could be anything from a fingerprint to iris scanning or facial recognition. Because biometric identifiers are unique to individuals, they improve security significantly.
Can MFA methods be combined?
Yes, MFA methods can be combined. For instance, a system could require a password, a fingerprint, and a security token for access.
How does Azure MFA help protect against phishing attacks?
Azure MFA helps protect against phishing attacks by adding an additional layer of security. Even if an attacker manages to steal a user’s password through phishing, they would still need the additional authentication factor (like a security token or biometric data) to access the system.
What are the benefits of using MFA?
The benefits of using MFA include enhanced security, protection against phishing attacks and identity theft, and compliance with security regulations and standards.
What are the drawbacks to using Multi-Factor Authentication?
Although MFA enhances security, it also adds complexity to the authentication process, which can sometimes result in user frustration or resistance. It may also add to technical support demands, especially in large organizations.
Is Multi-Factor Authentication supported in hybrid environments?
Yes, MFA can be implemented in hybrid environments using Azure AD or other technologies.
What types of Multi-Factor Authentication does Microsoft 365 support?
Microsoft 365 supports several types of MFA, including security questions, email verification, and the Microsoft Authenticator app.
Is implementing Multi-Factor Authentication a one-time event?
No, implementing MFA is not a one-time event. The usefulness of an MFA solution can reduce over time if it is not maintained correctly. Therefore it requires regular checkups and updates to maintain its effectiveness in providing security.