# Best Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Software with SMS Capabilities *By [Brandon Summers-Miller](https://research.g2.com/insights/author/brandon-summers-miller)* Multi-factor authentication (MFA) software secures user accounts by requiring identity verification through two or more factors before granting access to systems, applications, or sensitive information, including one-time passcodes, software or hardware tokens, mobile push notifications, biometrics, and contextual or risk-based factors. ### Core Capabilities of MFA Software To qualify for inclusion in the Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) category, a product must: - Utilize a secondary authentication method such as OTPs, mobile push, software token, hardware token, biometric factors, or similar - Prompt authentication from a user - Allow for triggered MFA for new users and devices ### Common Use Cases for MFA Software Businesses and individuals use MFA software to strengthen access security and prevent unauthorized entry to accounts and systems. Common use cases include: - Protecting enterprise applications and privileged accounts from unauthorized access and internal data loss - Securing employee logins across cloud and on-premise systems with layered authentication - Enabling individuals to improve security on personal devices and online accounts ### How MFA Software Differs from Other Tools [Risk-based authentication software](https://www.g2.com/categories/risk-based-authentication-rba) is a form of MFA that factors in geolocation, IP address reputation, device posture, and time since last authentication to assess risk dynamically. [Passwordless authentication software](https://www.g2.com/categories/passwordless-authentication) is another MFA variant that eliminates passwords entirely, relying on alternative factors only. MFA software can also be sold as part of compound identity solutions such as [identity and access management (IAM)](https://www.g2.com/categories/identity-and-access-management-iam) or [customer identity and access management (CIAM)](https://www.g2.com/categories/customer-identity-and-access-management-ciam) platforms. ### Insights from G2 on MFA Software Based on category trends on G2, ease of setup and broad authentication method support as top strengths. These platforms deliver reductions in account compromise incidents and improved compliance posture as primary outcomes of MFA adoption. ## How Many Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Software Products Does G2 Track? **Total Products under this Category:** 267 ## How Does G2 Rank Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Software Products? **Why You Can Trust G2's Software Rankings:** - 30 Analysts and Data Experts - 13,000+ Authentic Reviews - 267+ Products - Unbiased Rankings G2's software rankings are built on verified user reviews, rigorous moderation, and a consistent research methodology maintained by a team of analysts and data experts. Each product is measured using the same transparent criteria, with no paid placement or vendor influence. While reviews reflect real user experiences, which can be subjective, they offer valuable insight into how software performs in the hands of professionals. Together, these inputs power the G2 Score, a standardized way to compare tools within every category. --- **Sponsored** ### ManageEngine ADSelfService Plus ManageEngine ADSelfService Plus is an identity security solution with MFA, SSO, and SSPR capabilities. ADSelfService Plus is an identity security solution that ensures secure and seamless access to enterprise resources and establishes a Zero Trust environment. With adaptive multi-factor authentication (MFA), single sign-on (SSO), self-service password management, a password policy enhancer, remote work enablement, and workforce self-service, ADSelfService Plus provides your employees with secure, simple access to the resources they need. ADSelfService Plus helps keep identity-based threats out, fast-tracks application onboarding, improves password security, reduces help desk tickets, and empowers remote workforces. The core features of ADSelfService Plus include: Adaptive MFA Enable context-based MFA with 19 different authentication factors for endpoint and application logins. Enterprise SSO Allow users to access all enterprise applications with a single, secure authentication flow. Password management and security Simplify password management with self-service password resets and account unlocks, strong password policies, and password expiry notifications. Enterprise self-service Delegate profile updates and group subscriptions to end users and monitor these self-service actions with approval workflows. Remote work enablement Enhance remote work with cached credential updates, secure logins, and mobile password management. Powerful integrations Establish an efficient and secure IT environment through integration with SIEM, ITSM, and IAM tools. Reporting and auditing Simplify auditing with predefined, actionable reports about authentication failures, logon attempts, and blocked users. [Visit website](https://www.g2.com/external_clickthroughs/record?secure%5Bad_program%5D=ppc&secure%5Bad_slot%5D=category_product_list&secure%5Bcategory_id%5D=1083&secure%5Bdisplayable_resource_id%5D=1083&secure%5Bdisplayable_resource_type%5D=Category&secure%5Bmedium%5D=sponsored&secure%5Bplacement_reason%5D=page_category&secure%5Bplacement_resource_ids%5D%5B%5D=1083&secure%5Bprioritized%5D=false&secure%5Bproduct_id%5D=5690&secure%5Bresource_id%5D=1083&secure%5Bresource_type%5D=Category&secure%5Bsource_type%5D=category_page&secure%5Bsource_url%5D=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.g2.com%2Fcategories%2Fmulti-factor-authentication-mfa%2Ff%2Fmobile-sdk&secure%5Btoken%5D=3e70c8922eea13107bea222ff0248b7298dbbcc4b8742e954de1e445ce542535&secure%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.manageengine.com%2Fproducts%2Fself-service-password%2Fsem%2Fadselfservice-plus.html%3Futm_source%3DG2%26utm_medium%3Dtpac%26utm_campaign%3DADSSP-MFA&secure%5Burl_type%5D=custom_url) --- ## What Are the Top-Rated Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Software Products in 2026? ### 1. [Entrust Identity Essentials](https://www.g2.com/products/entrust-identity-essentials/reviews) Entrust Identity Essentials is a cost-effective, easy-to-deploy on-premises multi-factor authentication (MFA) solution that lets Windows-based organizations realize a Zero Trust approach to security. Entrust Identity Essentials is an out-of-the-box MFA solution that can be installed in less than five minutes, with no disruption to users. It works with your existing Microsoft environment, including Active Directory (AD) and Active Directory Federation Service (ADFS) for user synchronization. Available authenticators include SMS, email, voice, and OTP. There's also an option to leverage smart phone biometrics including fingerprint and facial match. **Average Rating:** 4.0/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 1 **How Do G2 Users Rate Entrust Identity Essentials?** - **Easy Setup:** 10.0/10 (Category avg: 8.9/10) **Who Is the Company Behind Entrust Identity Essentials?** - **Seller:** [Entrust, Inc.](https://www.g2.com/sellers/entrust-inc) - **Year Founded:** 1969 - **HQ Location:** Minneapolis, MN - **Twitter:** @Entrust_Corp (6,418 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/entrust/ (3,737 employees on LinkedIn®) - **Phone:** 1-888-690-2424 **Who Uses This Product?** - **Company Size:** 100% Enterprise ### 2. [HID Identity and Access Management](https://www.g2.com/products/hid-identity-and-access-management/reviews) Secure Identity Authentication & Lifecycle Management. Enhance security, simplify access and manage identities efficiently. Whether it’s using biometrics to authenticate into a network, managing identities and credentialing within airports, or securing an entire ecosystem of connected devices, HID Global has solutions for today’s Zero Trust environment. **Average Rating:** 4.0/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 1 **How Do G2 Users Rate HID Identity and Access Management?** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 6.7/10 (Category avg: 9.0/10) **Who Is the Company Behind HID Identity and Access Management?** - **Seller:** [HID Global](https://www.g2.com/sellers/hid-global) - **Year Founded:** 1991 - **HQ Location:** Austin, TX - **Twitter:** @HIDGlobal (12,023 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/22877/ (3,918 employees on LinkedIn®) - **Phone:** (800) 237-7769 **Who Uses This Product?** - **Company Size:** 100% Mid-Market #### What Are HID Identity and Access Management's Pros and Cons? **Pros:** - Easy Integrations (1 reviews) - Integration Capabilities (1 reviews) - Integrations (1 reviews) - Reliability (1 reviews) **Cons:** - Limited Customization (1 reviews) - Missing Features (1 reviews) - Outdated Features (1 reviews) - Outdated Interface (1 reviews) - Poor Interface Design (1 reviews) ### 3. [Authen2cate Multi-Factor Authentication](https://www.g2.com/products/authen2cate-multi-factor-authentication/reviews) Authen2cate is a secure, cloud-based identity management provider of Single Sign-On (SSO), Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), and Identity Management solutions for cloud, web, VPN, and mobile resources. **Who Is the Company Behind Authen2cate Multi-Factor Authentication?** - **Seller:** [Authen2cate](https://www.g2.com/sellers/authen2cate) - **Year Founded:** 2011 - **HQ Location:** Rochester Hills, US - **Twitter:** @authen2cate (6,557 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/authen2cate-llc-/ (1 employees on LinkedIn®) ### 4. [Bluink Enterprise](https://www.g2.com/products/bluink-enterprise/reviews) The IAM solution that lets employees securely access devices and applications without compromising ease of use or requiring heavy IT infrastructure **Who Is the Company Behind Bluink Enterprise?** - **Seller:** [Bluink](https://www.g2.com/sellers/bluink) - **Year Founded:** 2010 - **HQ Location:** Ottawa, CA - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/bluink-ltd (25 employees on LinkedIn®) ### 5. [CM.com One Time Passwords API](https://www.g2.com/products/cm-com-one-time-passwords-api/reviews) CM.com's One Time Password API is a cloud-based service designed to enhance the security of online data and accounts by generating, sending, monitoring, and managing OTPs through a single, convenient connection. This solution simplifies the implementation of multi-factor authentication, ensuring that businesses can protect their users against fraudulent login attempts and unauthorized access. Key Features and Functionality: - Multi-Channel Support: The OTP API supports various delivery channels, including SMS, voice calls, email, push notifications, and messaging apps like WhatsApp, Viber, and RCS. This flexibility ensures that OTPs can reach users through their preferred communication methods. - Automatic Channel Fallback: To guarantee OTP delivery, the system can automatically switch to an alternative channel if the primary one is unavailable, enhancing reliability and user experience. - API Integration: The service offers an easy-to-use API, allowing seamless integration into existing systems and applications. This developer-friendly approach ensures secure and scalable implementation of OTP functionalities. Primary Value and User Solutions: The primary value of CM.com's OTP API lies in its ability to provide an additional layer of security for online accounts and transactions. By implementing this service, businesses can significantly reduce the risk of fraud and unauthorized access, thereby protecting sensitive user information and maintaining trust. The multi-channel support and automatic fallback mechanisms ensure that users receive their OTPs promptly and reliably, enhancing the overall user experience. Additionally, the straightforward API integration allows businesses to implement robust authentication measures without extensive development efforts, making it a cost-effective and efficient solution for securing digital interactions. **Who Is the Company Behind CM.com One Time Passwords API?** - **Seller:** [CM.com](https://www.g2.com/sellers/cm-com) - **Year Founded:** 1999 - **HQ Location:** Breda, Noord-Brabant - **Twitter:** @CMcom_ (1,701 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/cmcom (767 employees on LinkedIn®) - **Ownership:** AMS: CMCOM ### 6. [LexisNexis One Time Password](https://www.g2.com/products/lexisnexis-one-time-password/reviews) LexisNexis® One Time Password is an out-of-band authentication method that provides business and government organizations the ability to have stronger authentication during a high risk, high value transaction with a customer. It offers a time-sensitive, unique random passcode via SMS, text, email or phone and is ideal for companies that are interested in providing a multi-factor authentication solution for their customers. No hardware (electronic fob, etc.) other than the user's existing phone or personal computer is required. **Who Is the Company Behind LexisNexis One Time Password?** - **Seller:** [LexisNexis Risk Solutions](https://www.g2.com/sellers/lexisnexis-risk-solutions) - **HQ Location:** Alpharetta, Georgia, United States - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/lexisnexis-risk-solutions (9,775 employees on LinkedIn®) ### 7. [LoginTC](https://www.g2.com/products/logintc/reviews) LoginTC is a Multi-factor authentication (MFA) service made by Cyphercor, Inc. LoginTC offers effortless administration, an intuitive user experience, seamless connections to VPNs, firewalls, remote access, email, and more, and a wide variety of deployment and authentication options. **Who Is the Company Behind LoginTC?** - **Seller:** [Cyphercor](https://www.g2.com/sellers/cyphercor) - **Year Founded:** 2011 - **HQ Location:** Ottawa, CA - **Twitter:** @logintc (997 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://ca.linkedin.com/company/cyphercor (7 employees on LinkedIn®) ### 8. [privacyIDEA](https://www.g2.com/products/privacyidea/reviews) privacyIDEA is a modular authentication server that can be used to enhance the security of your existing applications like local login, VPN, remote access, SSH connections, access to web sites or web portals with two factor authentication. Originally it was used for OTP (One Time Password) authentication devices – being an OTP server. But other “devices” like challenge response, U2F, Yubikeys, SSH keys and x509 certificates are also available. It runs on Linux and is completely Open Source, licensed under the AGPLv3. **Who Is the Company Behind privacyIDEA?** - **Seller:** [privacyIDEA](https://www.g2.com/sellers/privacyidea) - **HQ Location:** N/A - **Twitter:** @privacyidea (352 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/No-Linkedin-Presence-Added-Intentionally-By-DataOps (1 employees on LinkedIn®) ### 9. [SMSPassword](https://www.g2.com/products/smspassword/reviews) SMSPassword allows secure two-factor authentication. **Who Is the Company Behind SMSPassword?** - **Seller:** [SMSPassword](https://www.g2.com/sellers/smspassword) - **Year Founded:** 2014 - **HQ Location:** Blaricum, NL - **Twitter:** @SMSPassword (26 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/5335891 (2 employees on LinkedIn®) ### 10. [Strivacity](https://www.g2.com/products/strivacity/reviews) Strivacity helps brands add secure sign-up and sign-in capabilities to their customer-facing applications without tying up a crew of developers or consultants. We offer a unified customer identity and access management (CIAM) solution that uses clicks (not custom coding) so organizations can get going fast and don’t have to choose between creating great customer experiences, securing their customers’ data and staying compliant with fast-changing privacy regulations like GDPR and CCPA. **Average Rating:** 4.5/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 1 **Who Is the Company Behind Strivacity?** - **Seller:** [Strivacity](https://www.g2.com/sellers/strivacity) - **Year Founded:** 2019 - **HQ Location:** Herndon, US - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/strivacity (44 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Company Size:** 100% Mid-Market ### 11. [TextKey](https://www.g2.com/products/textkey/reviews) TextPower provides text messaging (SMS) solutions for mission-critical applications ranging from immediate communications with customers/staff to high security authentication of users. **Who Is the Company Behind TextKey?** - **Seller:** [ARCOS](https://www.g2.com/sellers/arcos) - **Year Founded:** 1993 - **HQ Location:** Columbus, Ohio, United States - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/arcos/ (234 employees on LinkedIn®) ### 12. [Twizo Verification](https://www.g2.com/products/twizo-verification/reviews) We are a security authentication platform offering various methods of two factor authentication for enterprises and developers. We offer both FREE and paid solutions. Our products are super simple to integrate and we have a wide range of solutions for you to work with. Visit www.twizo.com/products/verification for a full breakdown of the features available via all of the below services. \* Twizo Authenticator \* Messaging Clients \* Bio Voice \* SMS \* Voice Call \* Backup Codes \* Widget We aim to make security more accessible and more readily available so that service providers, users and everyones critical data is better protected. Twizo makes online security simple through easy integration and a variety of authentication solutions. We serve customers globally allowing them to scale their businesses while we worry about their security. **Who Is the Company Behind Twizo Verification?** - **Seller:** [Twizo](https://www.g2.com/sellers/twizo) - **Year Founded:** 1999 - **HQ Location:** Singapore, SG - **Twitter:** @GetTwizo (5 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/silverstreet-bv/ (35 employees on LinkedIn®) ### 13. [V-OS Messaging](https://www.g2.com/products/v-os-messaging/reviews) Banking and government grade secure messaging and communications solution. Secure End-to-End communications. **Who Is the Company Behind V-OS Messaging?** - **Seller:** [V-Key](https://www.g2.com/sellers/v-key) - **Year Founded:** 2011 - **HQ Location:** Singapore, SG - **Twitter:** @vkey_inc (255 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/v-key-inc (118 employees on LinkedIn®) ## What Is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Software? [Identity Management Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/identity-management) ## What Software Categories Are Similar to Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Software? - [Single Sign-On (SSO) Solutions](https://www.g2.com/categories/single-sign-on-sso) - [User Provisioning and Governance Tools](https://www.g2.com/categories/user-provisioning-and-governance-tools) - [Identity and Access Management (IAM) Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/identity-and-access-management-iam) - [Risk-Based Authentication Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/risk-based-authentication-rba) - [Customer Identity and Access Management (CIAM) Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/customer-identity-and-access-management-ciam) - [Biometric Authentication Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/biometric-authentication) - [Passwordless Authentication Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/passwordless-authentication) --- ## How Do You Choose the Right Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Software? ### What You Should Know About Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Software ### What You Should Know About Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Software ### 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](https://www.g2.com/categories/risk-based-authentication) 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**](https://www.g2.com/categories/multi-factor-authentication-mfa/f/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**](https://www.g2.com/categories/multi-factor-authentication-mfa/f/mobile-push-multi-factor-authentication-mfa) **:** 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**](https://www.g2.com/categories/multi-factor-authentication-mfa/f/hardware-token-based) **:** 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**](https://www.g2.com/categories/multi-factor-authentication-mfa/f/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**](https://www.g2.com/categories/multi-factor-authentication-mfa/f/biometric) **:** 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](https://learn.g2.com/fido) 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](https://www.g2.com/categories/multi-factor-authentication-mfa/f/backup), [Biometric Factor Capabilities](https://www.g2.com/categories/multi-factor-authentication-mfa/f/biometric-factor), [Compound Capabilities](https://www.g2.com/categories/multi-factor-authentication-mfa/f/compound), [Email Capabilities](https://www.g2.com/categories/multi-factor-authentication-mfa/f/email), [Hardware Capabilities](https://www.g2.com/categories/multi-factor-authentication-mfa/f/hardware), [Mobile SDK Capabilities](https://www.g2.com/categories/multi-factor-authentication-mfa/f/mobile-sdk), [Multi-Device Sync Capabilities](https://www.g2.com/categories/multi-factor-authentication-mfa/f/multi-device-sync), [Phone Capabilities](https://www.g2.com/categories/multi-factor-authentication-mfa/f/phone), [Point Capabilities](https://www.g2.com/categories/multi-factor-authentication-mfa/f/point), [Risk-based Capabilities](https://www.g2.com/categories/multi-factor-authentication-mfa/f/risk-based), [SMS Capabilities](https://www.g2.com/categories/multi-factor-authentication-mfa/f/sms), [Voice-Based Telephony Capabilities](https://www.g2.com/categories/multi-factor-authentication-mfa/f/voice-based-telephony), [Web SDK Capabilities](https://www.g2.com/categories/multi-factor-authentication-mfa/f/web-sdk) ### What are the Benefits of Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Software? **Security:** The main purpose of MFA software is for increased security when logging in to accounts. Companies use this software to ensure that only authorized users can log on and have access to specific company accounts. This helps the company prevent both insider threats, such as unauthorized employees, and external threats, like hackers, from accessing restricted accounts. **Simplified login processes:** Another reason businesses use MFA software is to simplify login processes for their employees. Passwords can be a hassle and are not enough to secure an account anymore. Considering the number of accounts users have, many people struggle to remember their passwords and reuse weak or compromised passwords across multiple accounts. Because of password fatigue, companies need ways to secure their employees' accounts while keeping the process simple for end users. MFA can reduce, and in some instances entirely remove the need for passwords. **Improve customer experience:** Developers use MFA software to increase security while simplifying login processes for their customers by embedding MFA tools in their applications. Trust is paramount for a company's success, so encouraging customers and other end users to secure their accounts is essential. Application developers are increasingly implementing MFA in the design of their applications. **Save time for helpdesk teams:** MFA software also improves productivity for help desk teams who deploy these tools to employees. Many of these tools are easy to install and have simple interfaces, contributing to widespread adoption. Many include self-help tools that free up help desk team members' time. **Meet regulatory compliance:** Some regulatory compliance rules, such as payment processing and healthcare regulations, require that MFA software be set up on user accounts. ### Who Uses Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Software? Everyone--from individual users to company employees and customers--should use MFA software to protect their accounts. It is even more important to use it to secure email accounts and password vaults to reduce the risk of being hacked. There are free versions of MFA software available for individuals and light users, as well as enterprise-level software available with added functionality for corporate deployments. **Individuals:** individuals use MFA software to protect their personal accounts including email, password vaults, social media, banking, and other apps. **Administrators:** Administrators or help desk technicians deploy MFA software to their colleagues. With large deployments, many administrators seek an MFA solution that provides a robust administrator platform to help with provisioning, deprovisioning, and setting risk policies. **End users:** End users, like company employees or customers, use MFA software on a daily basis. Accessible solutions with easy usability increase the adoption of these tools, improving security. Presently, many MFA software deployments utilize mobile device applications in the process. **Developers:** Developers, engineers, and product teams use MFA software to ensure the applications they’ve built are secure for end users. While some developers might choose to build their own MFA software, many are embedding existing MFA software solutions in their apps using APIs that allow developers’ software to integrate with the MFA software. #### Software Related to Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Software Related solutions include: [Passwordless authentication software](https://www.g2.com/categories/passwordless-authentication) **:** Passwordless authentication is a type of MFA software that eliminates a password as an authentication type. Instead of using passwords (something the user knows), passwordless authentication relies on authenticating a user via other means, such as something a user has (like a trusted mobile device or a hardware security key) and something that they are (for example, scanning their fingerprint). [Biometric authentication software](https://www.g2.com/categories/biometric-authentication) **:** Biometric authentication software is a type of MFA software that helps improve security for networks, applications, and physical locations by requiring biometric factors as an additional access qualifier. Biometric authentication tools utilize physical characteristics including facial, fingerprint, or voice recognition, to verify a user’s identity. [Risk-based authentication software](https://www.g2.com/categories/risk-based-authentication-rba) **:** RBA software is a type of MFA software that analyzes contextual factors like the user’s IP addresses, devices, behaviors, and identities to set customized authentication methods for each individual user attempting to access the network. Non-suspicious users accessing applications from known devices, locations, and networks may be automatically signed in. Suspicious users may be required to provide step-up authentication methods, such as inputting an SMS code, biometric verification, or email confirmation actions to properly verify their identity. [Single sign-on (SSO) software](https://www.g2.com/categories/single-sign-on-sso) **:** SSO software is an authentication tool that provides users with access to multiple applications or datasets without requiring multiple logins through the use of federation. Many SSO solutions have MFA functionality native within their software. [Identity and access management (IAM) software](https://www.g2.com/categories/identity-and-access-management-iam) **:** IAM software authenticates workforce users, provides access to systems and data, tracks user activity, and provides reporting tools to ensure employees comply with company policies. MFA is one component of this software. [Customer identity and access management (CIAM) software](https://www.g2.com/categories/customer-identity-and-access-management-ciam) **:** Businesses use CIAM software to manage customer user identities and offer those customers a secure, seamless login experience for the company’s websites, applications, and other online services. MFA is one component of this software. CIAM software also allows businesses to manage customer identities, preferences, and profile information at scale. These solutions enable customers to self register for services, login and authenticate, and manage their own user profiles, including consent and other preferences. [Identity verification software](https://www.g2.com/categories/identity-verification): Businesses verify user identities to create trust online and offline, prevent identity fraud, and comply with privacy and anti-fraud regulations using identity verification software. This is different from authentication. With identity verification, companies are trying to verify who an unknown person is (1:N match). With authentication, however, a company is trying to ensure that the person logging in is indeed the known person they already know (1:1 match). ### Challenges with Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Software **MFA methods:** It is important to choose the best MFA methods for the workforce. For example, if the workforce cannot carry mobile phones to their job sites—such as those in manufacturing, healthcare, or government roles—businesses must consider using a hardware token. If the workforce often needs to authenticate themselves while they are not online, businesses should choose a solution that allows offline authentication.  **User adoption:** Unlike many security tools that information security professionals deploy in the background, MFA tools are used by everyday users. It is important to properly train employees and ensure they understand how to use these tools. ### Which Companies Should Buy Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Software? All companies that have end users accessing important company resources should authenticate their users’ identities prior to granting access. Given that usernames and passwords are easily hacked, having a second or third form of authentication is advisable.  **All companies:** Any company that wants to ensure that only verified, permissioned people--such as employees, contractors, or customers--have access to company accounts. **Regulated industries:** While all companies should secure their resources, companies operating in regulated industries may be required by industry standards or law to do so. For example, many businesses that process credit card payments are subject to the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) compliance standards that require MFA on their accounts. Similarly, the [European Union Payment Services Directive](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/2015/2366/oj) requires strong customer authentication for electronic payments. Additionally, other bodies, such as the [Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)](https://www.hhs.gov/hipaa/for-professionals/security/guidance/index.html) for healthcare and the [Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX)](https://legcounsel.house.gov/Comps/Sarbanes-oxley%20Act%20Of%202002.pdf) for finance and accounting, require strong authentication processes. ### How to Buy Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Software #### Requirements Gathering (RFI/RFP) for Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Software As the buyer develops their list of requirements and priorities for selecting MFA software, they must keep these items in mind: **End user use cases** : Determining the company’s end-user use cases is essential. The buyer should also classify the users they are trying to authenticate--are they employees, contractors, or customers? For example, employees may be able to use authentication methods such as hardware tokens and biometrics, while customers might rely on in-app mobile pushes or OTPs sent via email, SMS, or phone.  **Authentication methods** : The buyer must determine the types of authentication methods that will and will not work for their end users. Are there limitations on the types of factors that the employees can use? For example, if employees in a manufacturing facility or healthcare unit cannot carry a mobile phone with them, authentication factors requiring a mobile device may not be suitable. **Licenses needed** : Buyers must determine how many licenses are needed for their end users and if there are different license types based on user type. **Business segment or region-specific solution** : If someone is looking for software tailored to the small businesses segment versus mid-market or enterprise segments, they have to be clear in their RFP about this. Similarly, if the buyer needs a tool that works well in a specific geographical region or language, they should include it in their RFP. **Integrations:** The buyer must determine which integrations are important to their company. **Timeline:** The company must decide how quickly they need to implement the solution. **Level of support:** Buyers should know if they require high-quality support or if they prefer implementing the solution in house. #### Compare Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Software Products **Create a long list** There are hundreds of MFA solutions available on the market, which can be daunting to sift through. It is best to narrow the list of potential vendors based on the features that are most important to the organization, such as the type of authentication available to end users.  Buyers can review MFA products on g2.com, where they can search by languages supported, features such as authentication type, and whether the solution is a point solution for MFA or if MFA is a part of a more comprehensive identity product. Once the buyer has narrowed down the product selection, they can save them in the “My List” on g2.com. **Create a short list** After storing the long list of potential MFA products, the list further can be further narrowed down by reading user reviews, checking the product’s ranking on the G2 Grid® report for the Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) software category, and reading usability ratings. **Conduct demos** After researching the options, it is time to conduct demos to ask detailed questions of the vendor and ensure it meets particular business needs. Potential buyers can contact many vendors directly on g2.com to request demos by selecting the “Get a quote” button. At each demo, buyers must be sure to ask the same questions and use case scenarios to best evaluate each product.  #### Selection of Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Software **Choose a selection team** The software selection team should be a handful of people representing different areas of the business. Personas should include the ultimate decision maker, IT or security administrators, and end users. It is important to include at least one end user on the selection team because end-user adoption is critical to the success of this software solution. **Negotiation** When negotiating a contract, typically longer length contracts and larger license counts can improve discounting.  **Final decision** Prior to making a final decision on which tool to purchase, buyers should ask the vendor if they offer a trial period to test with a small number of users before going all in on the product. If the tool is well received by end users and administrators, businesses can feel more confident in their purchase.