What is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Software?

The main purpose of using multi-factor authentication (MFA) software is for increased security when users log in to accounts. Companies use this software to ensure only authorized users—such as employees, contractors, or customers have secure access to specific company accounts. This helps prevent both insider threats, such as unauthorized employees from accessing sensitive data, and external threats, like cybercriminals deploying phishing attacks for data breaches, from accessing restricted accounts. MFA requires users to complete additional authentication steps to prove their identity prior to being granted access to applications, systems, or sensitive information. The software helps secure accounts by providing additional security using a layered, multi-step authentication approach. Generally, the first step to authenticate a user’s identity includes a standard username and password login process. After this initial login attempt, the second step might require users to enter a code provided by a software app on a mobile device, a hardware token like a key fob, or a code sent to a user via (SMS) text message, email, or phone call. Other authentication steps might include presenting a biometric like a fingerprint or a faceprint, or presenting other identifying signals like the user’s typical IP address, their device ID, or via behavioral factors verified by risk-based authentication (RBA) tools. What Does MFA Stand For? MFA stands for multi-factor authentication. It requires two or more different authentication factors. This software may also be referred to as two-factor authentication (2FA) or two-step verification when employing exactly two different authentication factors. What are the factors of authentication? MFA software requires users to authenticate with some or all of the following five factors: Single-factor authentication: Single-factor authentication requires users to authenticate with something they know. The most common single-factor authentication is password-based authentication. This is considered insecure because many people use weak passwords or passwords that are easily compromised. Two-factor authentication: Two-factor authentication requires users to authenticate with something they have. It requires users to provide the information they have, usually, a code provided by an authenticator app on their mobile devices, SMS or text message, software token (soft token), or hardware token (hard token). The code provided can be either an HMAC-based one-time password (HOTP) which does not expire until used, or a time-based one-time password (TOTP) that expires in 30 seconds. Three-factor authentication: Three-factor authentication requires users to authenticate with what they are. It takes into account something unique to the user such as biometric factors. They can include fingerprint scans, finger geometry, palmprint or hand geometry scans, and facial recognition. Using biometrics for authentication is becoming increasingly common as biometric logins on mobile devices, including facial recognition software and fingerprint scanning capabilities, have gained in popularity among consumers. Other biometric authentication methods, such as ear shape recognition, voiceprints, retina scans, iris scans, DNA, odor identity, gait patterns, vein patterns, handwriting and signature analysis, and typing recognition, have not yet been widely commercialized for MFA purposes. Four-factor authentication: Four-factor authentication requires users to authenticate with where they are and when. It considers a user’s geographic location and the time it took for them to get there. Usually, these authentication methods do not require a user to actively authenticate this information, instead, this runs in the background when determining a specific user’s authentication risk. Four-factor authentication verifies a user’s geolocation, which points to where they currently are and their geo-velocity, which is the reasonable amount of time it takes for a person to travel to a given location. For example, if a user authenticates with an MFA software provider in Chicago and 10 minutes later attempts to authenticate from Moscow, there is a security issue. Five-factor authentication: Five-factor authentication requires users to authenticate with something they do. It relates to specific gestures or touch patterns that users generate. For example, using a touch-screen enabled with a relatively new OS, that supports the feature, users can create a picture password where they draw circles, straight lines, or tap an image to create a unique gesture password. What Types of Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Software Exist? There are several kinds of MFA software. In addition to standard MFA functionality, many companies are moving toward RBA software, also known as intelligent MFA, which uses risk monitoring to determine when to request users for authentication. The different types of authentication methods can include: Mobile apps: A common way users prefer to authenticate is using MFA software’s mobile app. Software token: Software tokens enable users to use MFA mobile apps including wearable devices. Using software tokens is considered more secure than using OTP via SMS, since these messages can be intercepted by hackers. Software tokens can be used when offline, making it convenient for end users who may not have access to the internet. Push notifications: Push notifications make authentication simple for end users. A notification is sent to a user’s mobile device asking them to approve or deny the authentication request. Convenience is crucial for user adoption of MFA tools. Hardware token: Hardware tokens are pieces of hardware users carry with them to authenticate their identity. Examples include OTP key fobs, USB devices, and smart cards. Common issues with hardware tokens include the hardware’s expense plus the added cost of replacements when users lose them. One-time passwords (OTP) via SMS, voice, or email: Users who can’t use mobile apps on their phones can opt to use OTP sent to their mobile devices via SMS text message, voice call, or email. However, receiving authentication codes via SMS is considered one of the least secure ways to authenticate users. Risk-based authentication (RBA) software: RBA, also known as intelligent or adaptive MFA, uses real-time information about end users to evaluate their risk and prompt them to authenticate when needed. RBA software analyzes IP addresses, devices, behaviors, and identities to set personalized authentication methods for each distinct user attempting to access the network. Passwordless authentication: Passwordless authentication, also known as invisible authentication, relies on RBA factors such as location, IP address, and other user behaviors. Push notifications are considered passwordless authentication, as a user is not required to enter a code, but merely asked to accept or reject an authentication request. Biometrics: Biometric authentication factors, such as facial and fingerprint recognition, are gaining popularity among consumers, and therefore, MFA software providers are beginning to support them. Currently, other biometric factors, such as iris scanning, are not available in MFA tools. One issue with using biometrics for authentication is that once they are compromised, they are compromised forever. MFA as a service: Tying in with a company’s cloud-based directories, some MFA providers offer cloud-based MFA as a service solution. These often support multiple authentication methods including push notifications, software tokens, hardware tokens, online and offline authentication, and biometrics. On-premises MFA: On-premises MFA solutions run on a company’s server. Many software vendors are phasing out these kinds of MFA solutions and pushing customers to cloud-based solutions. Offline-available MFA: Users who need to authenticate, but do not have access to the internet, can use MFA solutions with offline support. For example, many federal employees work in controlled, secure environments and might not have access to the internet. Federal government civilian employees might use personal identity verification (PIV) cards to authenticate, while the Department of Defense employees authenticate using a common access card (CAC). For general civilians, they can authenticate offline using a mobile app with offline access to OTPs or one that uses a hardware-based U2F security key. Enterprise solutions: Companies that manage MFA deployments to many users need robust solutions and will opt for software with administrator consoles, endpoint visibility, and connect with single sign-on (SSO) software.

What are the Common Features of Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Software?

The following are some core features within MFA software that can help users authenticate via multiple modalities. Multiple authentication methods: To meet diverse needs, end users may like to authenticate in different ways. These might include OTPs sent via SMS, voice, email, push notifications sent to mobile devices, biometrics like fingerprints or facial recognition, hardware tokens such as key fobs, or fast identity online (FIDO) devices. Different software offer various kinds of authentication methods. It’s important to consider what type of authentication would work best for a specific organization. Supports access types: Ensuring MFA software works with a company’s existing cloud applications, local and remote desktops, web, VPN, and other applications is important. Prebuilt APIs: Developers adding MFA software in their applications may seek a provider with a prebuilt API for ease of development. Many software providers offer branded MFA functionality to maintain the look and feel of a developer’s own applications. Supports FIDO protocols: FIDO is a set of protocols based on public-key encryption created by the FIDO Alliance that is more secure than OTPs. FIDO supports authentication of almost any type, including USB, near-field communication (NFC), and Bluetooth. FIDO protocols are the basis of passwordless authentication. Self-registration and self-help portals: Positive user experience is critical for end-user adoption of MFA software. Many providers offer self-registration processes for end users, as well as self-service portals which save the deployment team’s time. Administrator tools: Administrators need tools to help them be most effective in deploying MFA software, as well as meeting company policies. Some MFA providers allow administrators to limit MFA to specific IP addresses or applications and specific geographical or secure locations. Many MFA tools have policy settings that restrict end users from using jailbroken devices. When employees leave or change roles, some MFA providers offer automatic deprovisioning features. Other Features of Multi-Factor Authentication Software: Backup Capabilities, Biometric Factor Capabilities, Compound Capabilities, Email Capabilities, Hardware Capabilities, Mobile SDK Capabilities, Multi-Device Sync Capabilities, Phone Capabilities, Point Capabilities, Risk-based Capabilities, SMS Capabilities, Voice-Based Telephony Capabilities, Web SDK Capabilities

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Software with Hardware Capabilities

LastPass

LastPass delivers Secure Access Essentials, helping individuals and organizations manage and protect access to AI, applications, and credentials straight from the browser. Trusted by more than 100,000 businesses and millions of users worldwide, LastPass combines strong security with everyday simplicity. For individuals, LastPass makes online life easier by securely storing credentials, generating strong passwords, and autofilling logins when needed. That means less friction, fewer resets, and safer access wherever work and life happens. For businesses, LastPass helps lean IT teams secure AI‑driven work by reducing risk by controlling access to unapproved apps, while storing and managing employee credentials and integrating with identity providers to fill gaps left by SSO. It’s simpler access, better visibility, and stronger security without added complexity.

Average Rating: 4.5/5.0

Total Reviews: 2,071

How Do G2 Users Rate LastPass?

Has the product been a good partner in doing business?: 8.6/10 (Category avg: 9.0/10)
Multi-Device Sync: 9.1/10 (Category avg: 9.0/10)
Easy Setup: 9.0/10 (Category avg: 9.0/10)
Backup: 8.6/10 (Category avg: 8.8/10)

Who Is the Company Behind LastPass?

Seller: LastPass
Company Website:
Year Founded: 2008
HQ Location: Boston, Massachusetts
Twitter: @LastPass
45,838 Twitter followers
LinkedIn® Page: www.linkedin.com
697 employees on LinkedIn®

Who Uses This Product?

Who Uses This: Owner, CEO
Top Industries: Information Technology and Services, Computer Software
Company Size: 63% Small, 25% Medium

What Do G2 Reviewers Say About LastPass?

AI-generated summary from verified user reviews

Pros

Users find LastPass easy to use, quickly mastering its structured layout for secure login management.
Users appreciate the secure password storage and smart updating features of LastPass, simplifying their password management experience.
Users appreciate the high security levels of LastPass, providing confidence against data breaches and ensuring password safety.
Users value the autofill feature of LastPass, making password management effortless and secure.
Users appreciate the high security levels of LastPass, feeling confident that their passwords remain safe and uncompromised.

Cons

Users face autofill issues with LastPass, as incorrect prefill and confusion with fields hinder smooth access.
Users find the mobile app experience lacking, with difficulties in login and concerns over security breaches.
Users experience login issues with LastPass, including bugs, lengthy processes, and concerns about security risks.
Users find password issues frustrating, with frequent changes required and unreliable password copying from the browser extension.
Users experience occasional browser extension issues, such as slow syncs and problems with auto-filling passwords.

What Are Recent G2 Reviews of LastPass?

"Seamless Cross-Platform Vaults, Easy Admin Console, and Strong Password Tools"

Rating: 5.0/5.0 stars

— Gregg D.

Product	Best for	User Review
Google Authenticator 4.6/5(582)	Offline TOTP code generation for multi-account 2FA	"Simple, Free, Seamlessly Integrated 2FA. Does what is needed"
Cisco Duo 4.5/5(519)	Push-based MFA with device trust verification	"Cisco DUO has been our most reliable 2FA solution so far"
Microsoft Entra ID 4.5/5(912)	Microsoft-native MFA with conditional access policies	"Entra ID P2 Makes Conditional Access and Security Policies Easy to Configure"
1Password 4.6/5(1,812)	Password autofill with integrated TOTP authentication	"One-Place Password Management with 1Password"
LastPass 4.5/5(2,087)	Password vault with built-in MFA storage	"Seamless Cross-Platform Vaults, Easy Admin Console, and Strong Password Tools"
Keeper Password Manager 4.6/5(1,234)	Shared credential vaults with embedded TOTP	"Valuable New Features, but Better Communication Would Help"
NordPass Business 4.5/5(642)	Password sharing with integrated TOTP authentication	"Enhances Security with Group Sharing"
Auth0 4.3/5(277)	Developer-first authentication with extensible MFA flows	"Auth0 Makes Secure Authentication Easy for a Beginner Developer"
MSG91 4.5/5(199)	OTP delivery with SMS failover routing	"MSG91: Fast, Dependable Messaging with Easy API Integration"
IBM Verify CIAM 4.3/5(185)	Adaptive MFA with centralized CIAM governance	"Easy SSO & MFA Management with a Helpful Login Activity Dashboard"

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