Authentication security measures keep your systems protected from cyber attacks and solidify your account security. Having authentication in place for systems such as Office 365 gives you an edge over potential security threats, saving you time and money. If you’re a Microsoft Office 365 user, knowing what 2FA is, why it’s essential, and how to set it up could save you from disaster.
What is Two-Factor Authentication?
Two-Factor Authentication, also known as multiple-factor authentication, is an added security layer to your Office 365 services. The first layer of authentication is a combination of username and password, which most systems use as a primary security measure. The second step of authentication is a personal identifier that attackers won’t know unless they either personally know you or have your personal information, which is highly unlikely. Most 2FA systems are designed to ask questions based on:
- Something you know.
- Something you have.
- Some part of your body.
For instance, the second layer of protection could ask the name of your childhood friend, a code sent to your mobile phone, or a fingerprint scan. Each of these qualifies as a different second layer, so many 2FA will only have one of these three elements. The most common uses are something you have and something you know, with many account recovery questions using a similar format.
How to Increase Cyber Security Through 2FA
The importance of 2FA is the added security your account has now. Unless a hacker has personal access to your phone number and the text messages stored on it, they won’t know the number combination to bypass your password.
Similarly, if they don’t know you personally, they won’t be able to answer a personal question about you. As for fingerprinting or eye scanning, they would need to physically be you to get into your account. Because of these requirements, many companies and managed service providers recommend or require you to use 2FA for all your business accounts.
Traditional security measures aren’t as strong due to multiple factors. First, 90% of all passwords can be cracked in less than six hours with current hacking software. A single layer isn’t nearly enough to hold attackers at bay for long if they decide to target you. Second, two-thirds of people use the same password everywhere. If someone were to get into one account, the odds are that they now have access to all your accounts unless you are in the minority that has a different password for every account. Third, sophisticated cyber attackers have the power to test billions of passwords every second. There are only so many character combinations when it comes to the liberal guidelines required to create a password. Specific software can generate an untold number of potential passwords until one is correct. Having a second layer of protection drastically reduces fraud, data loss, or identity theft.
How to Enable Multi-Factor Authentication in Office 365
Setting up two-step verification in Office 365 is a simple procedure that helps keep your account and all the information inside stored safely. The setup steps are:
- Sign in to your Microsoft Office 365 account as usual, then navigate to the Office 365 admin center.
- Select the users and groups section.
- Next to Set Multi-Factor Authentication Requirements, click Set Up.
- Find the user you wish to enable for multi-factor authentication. Ensure the user’s status is disabled and place a checkmark in the box next to their name.
- This action will bring up two options on the right, Enable and Manage User Settings. Select Enable. A pop-up will appear that specifies the next steps you need to take with your users. Click Enable Multi-Factor Auth.
- Once you’ve enabled the account for multi-factor authentication, your Office 365 users can sign in and complete the registration process.
Once this is completed, you’ve now set up your second authentication step for yourself and your employees. Make sure you consult with your IT team or your managed service provider to go over proper procedure guidelines for setting up and maintaining your 2FA.
The importance of 2FA is the added security your account has now. Unless a hacker has personal access to your phone number and the text messages stored on it, they won’t know the number combination to bypass your password.
Maximizing Managed Security
Reverus is a professional managed service provider that works closely with our clients to ensure all your IT needs are met. We offer a wide variety of security services, including cyber security as a service, security training, and more. Stay safe and secure when you rely on the managed IT solutions of Reverus.
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