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

Page 2 | Best Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Software: User Reviews from September 2026

FusionAuth

FusionAuth is a customer identity and access management (CIAM) platform specifically engineered to address the challenges of security, scalability, and developer efficiency. This solution is designed for organizations seeking to enhance their identity management processes while ensuring compliance with stringent regulatory standards such as GDPR and SOC2. By offering a flexible deployment model, FusionAuth allows users to maintain control over their data residency, whether in the cloud, on-premises, or in hybrid environments. Targeted towards developers and organizations that require robust identity solutions, FusionAuth is particularly beneficial for businesses experiencing rapid growth or those that need to streamline their authentication processes. Its API-first architecture enables organizations to embed identity management directly into their existing workflows, reducing the operational burden associated with traditional identity providers. This capability is especially valuable for companies that wish to eliminate the complexities and costs associated with maintaining homegrown authentication systems. Key features of FusionAuth include its flexible deployment options, which empower organizations to choose how and where they host their identity management solution. This flexibility is complemented by an API-driven architecture, where every feature is accessible through APIs, allowing for seamless integration and management of identity as part of the overall infrastructure. This approach not only enhances developer velocity but also ensures that organizations can adapt their identity solutions to meet evolving business needs without being locked into a single vendor's cloud. Additionally, FusionAuth offers predictable pricing models that help organizations avoid unexpected costs commonly associated with monthly active user (MAU) surges. This transparency in pricing is a significant advantage for businesses looking to scale without incurring excessive expenses. The platform has demonstrated its effectiveness across various industries, with notable success stories highlighting its ability to handle massive traffic surges, reduce operational bottlenecks, and lower engineering burdens. For instance, Bilt leveraged FusionAuth to manage high traffic volumes while ensuring compliance with data residency requirements. Similarly, Vatix transitioned from a cumbersome homegrown system to FusionAuth, enabling their Customer Success team to onboard clients quickly and efficiently. UrbanSitter's implementation of FusionAuth significantly reduced their authentication development time, allowing them to focus on core product innovation. These examples illustrate how FusionAuth not only enhances security and compliance but also drives operational efficiency and cost savings for organizations across diverse sectors.

Average Rating: 4.5/5.0

Total Reviews: 137

How Do G2 Users Rate FusionAuth?

Has the product been a good partner in doing business?: 9.3/10 (Category avg: 9.0/10)
Multi-Device Sync: 8.1/10 (Category avg: 9.0/10)
Easy Setup: 8.5/10 (Category avg: 9.0/10)
Backup: 8.0/10 (Category avg: 8.8/10)

Who Is the Company Behind FusionAuth?

Seller: FusionAuth
Company Website:
Year Founded: 2009
HQ Location: Broomfield, US
Twitter: @FusionAuth
2,032 Twitter followers
LinkedIn® Page: www.linkedin.com
67 employees on LinkedIn®

Who Uses This Product?

Who Uses This: CEO, CTO
Top Industries: Computer Software, Information Technology and Services
Company Size: 46% Small, 45% Medium

What Do G2 Reviewers Say About FusionAuth?

AI-generated summary from verified user reviews

Pros

Users find FusionAuth easy to use and administer, making setup and integration a seamless experience.
Users appreciate the ease of integration with various services, enhancing flexibility across different client needs.
Users love the easy integrations with third parties, making implementation seamless across various environments.
Users value the comprehensive and customizable features of FusionAuth, enhancing security and streamlining access management effortlessly.
Users praise the excellent customer support from FusionAuth, which aids in resolving issues and enhancing implementation.

Cons

Users find complexity in configuration settings, facing challenges with navigation and usage of advanced features.
Users experience a difficult learning curve with FusionAuth, especially regarding customization and understanding advanced concepts.
Users find the complex setup of FusionAuth daunting, with a steep learning curve and overwhelming documentation.
Users experience a steep learning curve with FusionAuth, especially when dealing with advanced customization and integration.
Users find the limited customization options frustrating, making it hard to align FusionAuth with their branding needs.

What Are Recent G2 Reviews of FusionAuth?

"Powerful, Flexible Authentication with Effortless Setup and a Great UI"

Rating: 5.0/5.0 stars

— Nate B.

Best Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Software - Page 2

How Many Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Software Products Does G2 Track?

Category Stats (Sep 2026)

How Does G2 Rank Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Software Products?

G2 Grid® for Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Software

How Do G2 Users Rate FusionAuth?

Who Is the Company Behind FusionAuth?

Who Uses This Product?

What Do G2 Reviewers Say About FusionAuth?

Pros

Cons

What Are Recent G2 Reviews of FusionAuth?

What Are G2 Users Discussing About FusionAuth?

How Do G2 Users Rate Google Security Key Enforcement?

Who Is the Company Behind Google Security Key Enforcement?

Who Uses This Product?

What Are Recent G2 Reviews of Google Security Key Enforcement?

What Are G2 Users Discussing About Google Security Key Enforcement?

How Do G2 Users Rate Twilio Verify?

Who Is the Company Behind Twilio Verify?

Who Uses This Product?

What Are Recent G2 Reviews of Twilio Verify?

What Are G2 Users Discussing About Twilio Verify?

How Do G2 Users Rate Shufti?

Who Is the Company Behind Shufti?

Who Uses This Product?

What Do G2 Reviewers Say About Shufti?

Pros

Cons

What Are Recent G2 Reviews of Shufti?

What Are G2 Users Discussing About Shufti?

How Do G2 Users Rate YubiKey?

Who Is the Company Behind YubiKey?

Who Uses This Product?

What Do G2 Reviewers Say About YubiKey?

Pros

Cons

What Are Recent G2 Reviews of YubiKey?

What Are G2 Users Discussing About YubiKey?

How Do G2 Users Rate Descope?

Who Is the Company Behind Descope?

Who Uses This Product?

What Do G2 Reviewers Say About Descope?

Pros

Cons

What Are Recent G2 Reviews of Descope?

How Do G2 Users Rate ManageEngine ADSelfService Plus?

Who Is the Company Behind ManageEngine ADSelfService Plus?

Who Uses This Product?

What Do G2 Reviewers Say About ManageEngine ADSelfService Plus?

Pros

Cons

What Are Recent G2 Reviews of ManageEngine ADSelfService Plus?

What Are G2 Users Discussing About ManageEngine ADSelfService Plus?

How Do G2 Users Rate PingID?

Who Is the Company Behind PingID?

Who Uses This Product?

What Do G2 Reviewers Say About PingID?

Pros

Cons

What Are Recent G2 Reviews of PingID?

What Are G2 Users Discussing About PingID?

How Do G2 Users Rate WatchGuard AuthPoint?

Who Is the Company Behind WatchGuard AuthPoint?

Who Uses This Product?

What Are Recent G2 Reviews of WatchGuard AuthPoint?

What Are G2 Users Discussing About WatchGuard AuthPoint?

G2 Deal: Try Proton Pass For Business for Free

How Do G2 Users Rate Proton Pass For Business?

Who Is the Company Behind Proton Pass For Business?

Who Uses This Product?

What Do G2 Reviewers Say About Proton Pass For Business?

Pros

Cons

What Are Recent G2 Reviews of Proton Pass For Business?

How Do G2 Users Rate WSO2 Identity Platform?

Who Is the Company Behind WSO2 Identity Platform?

Who Uses This Product?

What Do G2 Reviewers Say About WSO2 Identity Platform?

Pros