# Best Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Software - Page 10 *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. ## Top Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Software at a Glance | # | Product | Rating | Best For | What Users Say | |---|---------|--------|----------|----------------| | 1 | [Google Authenticator](https://www.g2.com/products/google-authenticator/reviews) | 4.6/5.0 (574 reviews) | Offline TOTP code generation for multi-account 2FA | "[Simple, Reliable Offline 2FA with Google Authenticator](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/google-authenticator-review-12576644)" | | 2 | [Cisco Duo](https://www.g2.com/products/cisco-duo/reviews) | 4.5/5.0 (499 reviews) | Push-based MFA with device trust verification | "[Effortless Security Compliance with Cisco Duo](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/cisco-duo-review-12676028)" | | 3 | [Microsoft Entra ID](https://www.g2.com/products/microsoft-entra-id/reviews) | 4.5/5.0 (872 reviews) | Microsoft-native MFA with conditional access policies | "[Entra ID P2 Makes Conditional Access and Security Policies Easy to Configure](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/microsoft-entra-id-review-12889489)" | | 4 | [1Password](https://www.g2.com/products/1password/reviews) | 4.6/5.0 (1,784 reviews) | Password autofill with integrated TOTP authentication | "[Seamless, Simple Password Management Across Desktop and Mobile](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/1password-review-12976873)" | | 5 | [LastPass](https://www.g2.com/products/lastpass/reviews) | 4.5/5.0 (2,034 reviews) | Password vault with built-in MFA storage | "[Stress-Free Password Management with Seamless Autofill and Sync](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/lastpass-review-12845237)" | | 6 | [Keeper Password Manager](https://www.g2.com/products/keeper-password-manager/reviews) | 4.6/5.0 (1,225 reviews) | Shared credential vaults with embedded TOTP | "[Feature rich password manager meeting all our business needs for password security and hygiene](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/keeper-password-manager-review-10821974)" | | 7 | [NordPass Business](https://www.g2.com/products/nordpass-business/reviews) | 4.5/5.0 (641 reviews) | Password sharing with integrated TOTP authentication | "[Simple, Secure Team Password Management with NordPass Business](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/nordpass-business-review-12856345)" | | 8 | [Auth0](https://www.g2.com/products/auth0/reviews) | 4.3/5.0 (264 reviews) | Developer-first authentication with extensible MFA flows | "[Auth0 Makes Secure Authentication Easy for a Beginner Developer](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/auth0-review-12955437)" | | 9 | [MSG91](https://www.g2.com/products/msg91/reviews) | 4.5/5.0 (196 reviews) | OTP delivery with SMS failover routing | "[Reliable, Fast SMS Delivery with Transparent, Reasonable Pricing](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/msg91-review-12262112)" | | 10 | [IBM Verify CIAM](https://www.g2.com/products/ibm-verify-ciam/reviews) | 4.3/5.0 (177 reviews) | Adaptive MFA with centralized CIAM governance | "[Low-Code Identity Orchestration with Smart Adaptive Risk and Legacy Integration](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/ibm-verify-ciam-review-12900550)" | --- ## What Are the Most Common Questions About Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Software? *AI-generated · Last updated: May 26, 2026* ### What multi-factor authentication (MFA) solutions most preferred by software engineers for managing multiple account authentication? Based on G2 reviews, software engineers and technical users most often describe Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) solutions as valuable when they centralize many accounts, reduce repeated login steps, and stay easy to use day to day. According to verified users, reviewers repeatedly mention app consolidation, smooth browser or device workflows, and support for multiple verification methods. G2 reviewers mention that products are especially preferred when they help teams avoid juggling separate tools for different sites, while still keeping access secure. In this review set, users most consistently highlight convenience, broad integrations, and manageable administration as the factors that drive long-term adoption across engineering-heavy environments. ### Which multi-factor authentication (MFA) platforms address lack of backup options when users lose phone access? Based on G2 reviews, Microsoft Entra ID appears most often in recent category reviews discussing centralized identity controls, access visibility, and secure sign-in management. According to verified users, backup and recovery concerns are a common evaluation point across MFA tools, especially when users change devices or lose phone access. G2 reviewers mention that stronger options include clearer account recovery processes, centralized administration, and features that reduce dependence on a single device. Reviews in this dataset also show buyers paying close attention to how tools handle reenrollment, restore workflows, and alternative verification methods, since poor recovery experiences can create friction for both end users and IT teams. ### What backup and recovery features should development teams evaluate in multi-factor authentication (MFA) solutions? Based on G2 reviews, development teams should look closely at device transfer workflows, backup and restore options, alternative sign-in paths, and how clearly recovery is explained to users. According to verified users, account recovery becomes a major issue when someone replaces a phone, loses access to a mobile app, or depends on a single registered device. G2 reviewers mention the importance of recovery reminders, secure backup handling, cloud or sync options where available, and admin visibility into reenrollment. Reviews also highlight that recovery should not add excessive support burden, so teams should evaluate whether users can regain access smoothly without creating security gaps or forcing engineering and IT staff into repeated manual resets. ### What multi-factor authentication (MFA) tools that work smoothly without internet and require no battery or storage space? Based on G2 reviews, buyers looking for MFA tools that work without internet often focus on offline code generation or hardware-based authentication. According to verified users, offline capability is a major reason many teams choose authenticator apps over SMS, especially when traveling or working in low-connectivity environments. G2 reviewers mention that some solutions are appreciated for being simple, lightweight, and dependable even when no network is available, while hardware keys are praised for strong authentication without relying on phone storage or app activity. Reviews in this dataset show that ease of setup and consistent access matter as much as security, especially for users who need dependable authentication without adding extra friction to daily workflows. ### What is the best multi-factor authentication (MFA) platforms for software engineers managing authentication at application scale? Based on G2 reviews, the best MFA platforms for application-scale environments are typically the ones reviewers describe as easy to integrate, flexible across protocols, and capable of supporting centralized authentication policies. According to verified users, software teams value platforms that reduce the need to build authentication from scratch, support SSO and MFA together, and fit into modern application stacks without excessive overhead. G2 reviewers mention that scalability, developer-friendly documentation, API support, and user lifecycle controls are major buying factors. Reviews also suggest that teams managing application-scale authentication care about reducing engineering effort while still maintaining secure access, reliable onboarding, and manageable policy administration across multiple apps and user groups. **Here are some of the top-rated products on G2:** - [Google Authenticator](https://www.g2.com/products/google-authenticator/reviews) – often used for simple app-based MFA across many services with quick QR-code setup and offline code access - [Cisco Duo](https://www.g2.com/products/cisco-duo/reviews) – commonly used for VPN, cloud app, and enterprise system authentication with push approvals and centralized admin visibility - [Microsoft Entra ID](https://www.g2.com/products/microsoft-entra-id/reviews) – frequently used to manage MFA, SSO, and conditional access across Microsoft and third-party applications ### What most trusted multi-factor authentication (MFA) by software engineers based on user reviews? Based on G2 reviews, trust in MFA tools comes from reliability, ease of use, and confidence that authentication works consistently across important accounts and systems. According to verified users, software engineers tend to trust tools that are simple to deploy, dependable during daily sign-ins, and able to secure many services without creating unnecessary friction. G2 reviewers mention that products earn trust when they reduce exposure to weak password-only access, support common enterprise integrations, and provide a login experience users can repeat every day without confusion. Reviews in this dataset also show that long-term trust is strongly tied to recovery experience, device compatibility, and how well a solution balances stronger security with practical usability. **Here are some of the top-rated products on G2:** - [Google Authenticator](https://www.g2.com/products/google-authenticator/reviews) – trusted by reviewers for straightforward offline code generation and broad compatibility across personal and work accounts - [Cisco Duo](https://www.g2.com/products/cisco-duo/reviews) – trusted for secure push-based authentication, VPN access protection, and easy administration for distributed teams - [Microsoft Entra ID](https://www.g2.com/products/microsoft-entra-id/reviews) – trusted for centralized identity controls, MFA enforcement, and secure access across cloud and hybrid environments ### Which multi-factor authentication (MFA) tools reduce adoption friction from device sync limitations and account loss? Based on G2 reviews, tools that reduce adoption friction tend to offer easier device transfers, clearer sync behavior, and less stressful recovery when users switch phones or lose access. According to verified users, frustration often appears when MFA depends too heavily on a single device or when migration steps are unclear. G2 reviewers mention that better experiences come from products with simpler backup management, account portability, and straightforward recovery guidance. Reviews also show that users are more likely to keep using MFA when setup remains lightweight and support requests are minimized after device changes. For teams, that means smoother adoption usually depends on reducing the operational pain around sync gaps, reenrollment, and account restoration. ### What highest rated multi-factor authentication (MFA) for simple, reliable two-factor authentication with minimal setup complexity? Based on G2 reviews, buyers consistently favor MFA tools that combine quick setup with dependable everyday authentication. According to verified users, the simplest experiences usually involve fast enrollment, intuitive QR-code onboarding, and low-friction sign-in methods such as push approval or straightforward one-time codes. G2 reviewers mention that reliability matters most once a tool is deployed, since users want authentication to be fast and predictable rather than technically impressive but hard to maintain. Reviews in this dataset show that minimal setup complexity is often tied to lightweight interfaces, easy administration, and support for common business applications, helping teams improve security without creating a burden for users or IT staff. ### Which multi-factor authentication (MFA) platforms integrate with global SSO providers and offer enterprise ready-made integrations? Based on G2 reviews, platforms built for enterprise environments are often recognized for strong SSO compatibility, broad integration coverage, and readiness for common cloud and business systems. According to verified users, buyers value MFA tools that work with identity providers, VPNs, cloud apps, and internal systems without requiring heavy customization. G2 reviewers mention that enterprise-ready platforms stand out when they support centralized authentication strategies, role and access controls, and straightforward integration with existing application ecosystems. Reviews in this dataset also show that mature admin consoles, reliable provisioning support, and documentation for large-scale deployments matter when teams need MFA to extend cleanly across multiple applications, departments, and user groups. ### What multi-factor authentication (MFA) solutions developers actually adopt among teams past the first quarter of use? Based on G2 reviews, developers continue using MFA solutions past initial rollout when the product becomes part of daily work without creating repeated friction. According to verified users, long-term adoption depends on fast sign-ins, reliable prompts or codes, manageable setup, and the ability to secure many accounts from one place. G2 reviewers mention that products stick when they reduce password reuse, simplify access to work systems, and avoid constant troubleshooting after deployment. Reviews also suggest that support for multiple apps, low training requirements, and stable day-to-day performance matter more than flashy features. In practice, teams keep using MFA when it saves time, protects access consistently, and fits naturally into established workflows. ## How Many Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Software Products Does G2 Track? **Total Products under this Category:** 269 ### Category Stats (Jun 2026) - **Average Rating**: 4.47/5 The average rating of products in this category, based on all submitted ratings - **Top Trending Product**: ManageEngine ADSelfService Plus (+0.81%) - Among all products in this category, ManageEngine ADSelfService Plus recorded the largest rating increase compared to last month *Last updated: June 26, 2026* ## How Does G2 Rank Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Software Products? **Why You Can Trust G2's Software Rankings:** - 30 Analysts and Data Experts - 13,200+ Authentic Reviews - 269+ 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. ## Which Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Software Is Best for Your Use Case? - **Leader:** [Google Authenticator](https://www.g2.com/products/google-authenticator/reviews) - **Highest Performer:** [MSG91](https://www.g2.com/products/msg91/reviews) - **Easiest to Use:** [Cisco Duo](https://www.g2.com/products/cisco-duo/reviews) - **Top Trending:** [Descope](https://www.g2.com/products/descope/reviews) - **Best Free Software:** [LastPass](https://www.g2.com/products/lastpass/reviews) ## Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Software Features & Capabilities ### What are the Best Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Software with Biometric Factor? Allows biometric factors such as fingerprints, faceprints, voiceprints, or other biometric information to be used as an authentication factor. **Top-rated Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Software for Biometric Factor:** - [Cisco Duo](https://www.g2.com/products/cisco-duo/reviews) - [LastPass](https://www.g2.com/products/lastpass/reviews) - [NordPass Business](https://www.g2.com/products/nordpass-business/reviews) [Explore Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Software with Biometric Factor](https://www.g2.com/categories/multi-factor-authentication-mfa/f/biometric-factor) ### What are the Best Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Software with Web SDK? Offers a software development kit (SDK) for web-based applications. **Top-rated Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Software for Web SDK:** - [Cisco Duo](https://www.g2.com/products/cisco-duo/reviews) - [LastPass](https://www.g2.com/products/lastpass/reviews) - [Auth0](https://www.g2.com/products/auth0/reviews) [Explore Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Software with Web SDK](https://www.g2.com/categories/multi-factor-authentication-mfa/f/web-sdk) ### What are the Best Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Software with Mobile SDK? Offers a mobile software development kit (SDK) for iOS, Blackberry, and Android. **Top-rated Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Software for Mobile SDK:** - [Cisco Duo](https://www.g2.com/products/cisco-duo/reviews) - [LastPass](https://www.g2.com/products/lastpass/reviews) - [Auth0](https://www.g2.com/products/auth0/reviews) [Explore Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Software with Mobile SDK](https://www.g2.com/categories/multi-factor-authentication-mfa/f/mobile-sdk) ### What are the Best Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Software with Risk-Based Authentication? Analyzes users' IP addresses, devices, behaviors and identities to authenticate a user. **Top-rated Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Software for Risk-Based Authentication:** - [Google Authenticator](https://www.g2.com/products/google-authenticator/reviews) - [Cisco Duo](https://www.g2.com/products/cisco-duo/reviews) - [LastPass](https://www.g2.com/products/lastpass/reviews) [Explore Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Software with Risk-Based Authentication](https://www.g2.com/categories/multi-factor-authentication-mfa/f/risk-based-authentication) ### What are the Best Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Software with Mobile-Push? Offers mobile push authentication, which is a user-friendly method that does not require a user to copy a code, but rather accept or deny an authentication using a mobile application. Mobile push authentication only works when a user is connected to the internet. **Top-rated Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Software for Mobile-Push:** - [Google Authenticator](https://www.g2.com/products/google-authenticator/reviews) - [Cisco Duo](https://www.g2.com/products/cisco-duo/reviews) - [LastPass](https://www.g2.com/products/lastpass/reviews) [Explore Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Software with Mobile-Push](https://www.g2.com/categories/multi-factor-authentication-mfa/f/mobile-push-multi-factor-authentication-mfa) ## What Are the Top-Rated Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Software Products in 2026? ### 1. [pinn](https://www.g2.com/products/pinn/reviews) Allow the digital world to progress unencumbered by the current challenges of authentication. **Who Is the Company Behind pinn?** - **Seller:** [pinn](https://www.g2.com/sellers/pinn) - **Year Founded:** 2016 - **HQ Location:** Redwood City, US - **Twitter:** @PinnTech (52 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/10642359 (13 employees on LinkedIn®) ### 2. [PowerFactor](https://www.g2.com/products/powerfactor/reviews) PowerFactor provides a wide range of strong, frictionless customer authentication and mobile application security. **Who Is the Company Behind PowerFactor?** - **Seller:** [Architecht](https://www.g2.com/sellers/architecht) - **Year Founded:** 2015 - **HQ Location:** Teknopark İstanbul, TR - **Twitter:** @PowerFactor1 (26 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/architechttr/ (2,028 employees on LinkedIn®) ### 3. [Powertech Multi-Factor Authentication](https://www.g2.com/products/powertech-multi-factor-authentication/reviews) A Key Part of Fortra (the new face of HelpSystems) Powertech is proud to be part of Fortra’s comprehensive cybersecurity portfolio. Fortra simplifies today’s complex cybersecurity landscape by bringing complementary products together to solve problems in innovative ways. These integrated, scalable solutions address the fast-changing challenges you face in safeguarding your organization. With the help of the powerful protection from Powertech Multi-Factor Authentication and others, Fortra is your relentless ally, here for you every step of the way throughout your cybersecurity journey. **Who Is the Company Behind Powertech Multi-Factor Authentication?** - **Seller:** [Fortra](https://www.g2.com/sellers/fortra) - **Year Founded:** 1982 - **HQ Location:** Eden Prairie, Minnesota - **Twitter:** @fortraofficial (2,773 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/fortra (1,755 employees on LinkedIn®) ### 4. [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 (353 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/No-Linkedin-Presence-Added-Intentionally-By-DataOps (1 employees on LinkedIn®) ### 5. [RCDevs Security Solutions](https://www.g2.com/products/rcdevs-security-solutions/reviews) RCDevs offers a suite of cybersecurity products designed to enhance identity and access management (IAM) for businesses. Their product range focuses on providing secure authentication, seamless user experiences, and compliance with industry standards. Here’s an overview of key products: 1. RCDevs Authenticator: This is a versatile mobile app that enables users to authenticate their login using a combination of multiple methods, including push notifications, QR codes, and OTPs. The app is designed for easy deployment in enterprise environments and can be used for secure access to web applications, VPNs, and internal systems. 2. RADIUS Authentication: RCDevs offers RADIUS (Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service) integration to provide centralized authentication for users accessing remote networks or VPNs. This solution allows businesses to manage secure access to their networks and ensure that only authorized users can connect to critical resources. 3. SAML/OpenID Single Sign-On: RCDevs provides a Single Sign-On solution using SAML and OpenID-Connect, allowing users to log in once and access multiple services without having to re-enter credentials. This solution simplifies access management while maintaining strong security across applications and systems. 4. Identity Federation: RCDevs enables identity federation, allowing organizations to securely share identity information across different systems, both within the enterprise and with external partners. This feature ensures seamless access to applications across organizational boundaries while maintaining strict security controls. 5. Multi-Factor Authentication everywhere: RCDevs offers a multi-factor authentication solution specifically designed for VPN access, ensuring that users authenticate themselves through multiple factors (e.g., password + OTP, smartcard + biometrics) before being granted access to internal resources. 6. Customizable Authentication Solutions: RCDevs offers flexibility with customizable authentication methods, allowing organizations to tailor the solution to meet their specific security needs. This includes integrations with third-party systems, support for various token types, and the ability to create custom workflows for authentication processes. 7. Network Access Control: RCDevs’ NAC solution enables businesses to enforce security policies and authenticate devices before they are allowed to connect to the corporate network. RCDevs’ products are focused on offering scalable, flexible, and easy-to-use security solutions that help businesses protect against unauthorized access, enhance user experience, and comply with industry regulations. **Who Is the Company Behind RCDevs Security Solutions?** - **Seller:** [RCDevs](https://www.g2.com/sellers/rcdevs) - **HQ Location:** Esch-sur-Alzette, LU - **Twitter:** @RCDevs (147 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/3152195 (17 employees on LinkedIn®) ### 6. [Reconi](https://www.g2.com/products/reconi/reviews) Reconi is a reliable and customer-oriented organization committed to providing our customers with the latest technology and the best products and services. Our strategy is to stay ahead. We do this by continuously simplifying, expanding and continuing to innovate our login tools. **Who Is the Company Behind Reconi?** - **Seller:** [Reconi](https://www.g2.com/sellers/reconi) - **Year Founded:** 2000 - **HQ Location:** Zaandam, NL - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/reconi (59 employees on LinkedIn®) ### 7. [Rocket MFA](https://www.g2.com/products/rocket-mfa/reviews) Rocket MFA provides alternative authentication mechanisms for IBM i systems. Rocket MFA also provides authentication mechanisms for Red Hat Enterprise Linux Server, SUSE Linux Enterprise Server, and AIX systems that use pluggable authentication module (PAM) authentication. **Who Is the Company Behind Rocket MFA?** - **Seller:** [Rocket Software](https://www.g2.com/sellers/rocket-software) - **Year Founded:** 1990 - **HQ Location:** Waltham, MA - **Twitter:** @Rocket (3,532 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/10127/ (4,347 employees on LinkedIn®) ### 8. [Rohos Logon Key](https://www.g2.com/products/rohos-logon-key/reviews) Rohos Logon Key is a computer security software that secures Windows infrastructure and saves budgets. **Who Is the Company Behind Rohos Logon Key?** - **Seller:** [Tesline-Service](https://www.g2.com/sellers/tesline-service) - **HQ Location:** N/A - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/No-Linkedin-Presence-Added-Intentionally-By-DataOps (1 employees on LinkedIn®) ### 9. [SaaS PasswordFree Authentication™️ For Customers](https://www.g2.com/products/saas-passwordfree-authentication-for-customers/reviews) This SaaS passwordless authentication for customers offering is an API-enabled internet security service that provides an easy-to-implement, easy-to-use, affordable, and scalable #PasswordFree Authentication™ solution for developers and online businesses that require a customer to register or log in to a web portal or mobile application. SaaS #PasswordFree Authentication™ powers a world-class customer experience by utilizing a visual-only confirmation, allowing the customer to confirm their authenticity by using a picture and a number (no typing required), making the authentication process easier and more secure than the popular One Time Password (OTP) methods that require a user to type a 6-8 character code. With a simple look, click, or tap, customers are taken through at least three factors of authentication – something they know, something they have, and something they are (biometric). And there’s more… The customer's security is enhanced by the Identité® patented Full Duplex Authentication®, an intelligent Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) security process, which not only authenticates a user’s digital token but also requires the server to authenticate to the customer before exposing the user’s token. This essentially eliminates phishing, impersonation, and “Man-in-the-Middle” attacks. SaaS #PasswordFree Authentication™️ for Customers by Identité® is a revolutionary backbone for the digital security of internet businesses, with the latest technology, and functionalities that will improve and modernize your business’s internet security standards, and it creates a more secure, simple #PasswordFree™ experience for your customers. **Who Is the Company Behind SaaS PasswordFree Authentication™️ For Customers?** - **Seller:** [Identite](https://www.g2.com/sellers/identite-30a4d66c-79f7-49bd-8de3-b8f8689badd3) - **HQ Location:** N/A - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/No-Linkedin-Presence-Added-Intentionally-By-DataOps (1 employees on LinkedIn®) ### 10. [SafeNet Authentication Service Private Cloud Edition (SAS PCE)](https://www.g2.com/products/safenet-authentication-service-private-cloud-edition-sas-pce/reviews) The SafeNet Authentication Service Private Cloud Edition (SAS PCE) from Thales Group is an on-premises identity and access management platform designed to deliver secure, scalable multi-factor authentication across enterprise environments. It provides automated lifecycle management of users, tokens, and policies, helping organizations reduce IT overhead and simplify authentication operations. SAS PCE supports a broad range of use cases, including VPN, VDI, cloud applications, and web access, with over 200 pre-tested integrations and flexible connectivity via SAML 2.0, Agent, or API. A wide choice of authentication methods and token types, including FIDO, enables organizations to tailor security to different user needs while supporting federated login and improving user convenience. With a multi-tier architecture and shared services model, SAS PCE simplifies management across business units and enables flexible policy control, helping organizations strengthen access security while maintaining operational efficiency. **Who Is the Company Behind SafeNet Authentication Service Private Cloud Edition (SAS PCE)?** - **Seller:** [Thales Group](https://www.g2.com/sellers/thales-group) - **HQ Location:** Austin, Texas - **Twitter:** @ThalesCloudSec (6,935 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/thalessoftwaremonetization/ (1,470 employees on LinkedIn®) - **Ownership:** EPA:HO - **Total Revenue (USD mm):** $15,854 ### 11. [Secfense User Access Security Broker](https://www.g2.com/products/secfense-user-access-security-broker/reviews) Secfense is a proxy-based authentication platform that enables enterprises to deploy phishing-resistant multi-factor authentication (MFA), passkeys, Windows Hello, and microauthorizations across every application - without code changes or system replacements. Acting as a universal authentication layer: Secfense sits between users and applications, upgrading the security of all systems - even legacy or custom-built ones - to modern standards such as FIDO2, passkeys, or Windows Hello. Unlike traditional IAM solutions that require rewrites or proprietary integrations, Secfense works as a vendor-neutral overlay that brings passwordless, phishing-resistant login to every system. Most enterprises still rely on passwords or have partial MFA coverage. Legacy and on-premises applications and SSO often can't support modern authentication methods, and rewriting them is expensive and risky. As a result, more than 80% of breaches continue to originate from compromised credentials. Meanwhile, emerging regulations such as DORA and NIS2 mandate phishing-resistant authentication, something existing IAM tools alone cannot easily achieve across diverse applications. Secfense closes this gap. Operating as a reverse proxy, it intercepts login requests and dynamically injects FIDO2-based authentication - including passkey prompts, biometric checks, or hardware key authentication - before passing validated sessions to the protected applications. The entire process is transparent to both users and applications: No code changes, no app modifications, and no disruption to operations. Secfense seamlessly integrates with existing identity providers, including Entra ID, Okta, Ping, and others, via SAML and OIDC protocols. Rather than replacing these systems, Secfense extends them with phishing-resistant capabilities while allowing organizations to fully control their identity architecture. Trusted by banks, insurers, and other regulated industries, Secfense delivers the fastest, most practical path to secure, compliant, and passwordless authentication across the enterprise - reducing deployment times from months to weeks and cutting IAM modernization costs by up to 87%. **Who Is the Company Behind Secfense User Access Security Broker?** - **Seller:** [Secfense](https://www.g2.com/sellers/secfense) - **Year Founded:** 2018 - **HQ Location:** San Francisco, US - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/secfense/ (17 employees on LinkedIn®) - **Ownership:** Tomazs Kowalski, CEO & Marcin Szary, CTO ### 12. [SecSign](https://www.g2.com/products/secsign/reviews) SecSign is a two-factor user authentication solution. **Who Is the Company Behind SecSign?** - **Seller:** [SecSign](https://www.g2.com/sellers/secsign) - **Year Founded:** 1998 - **HQ Location:** Henderson, US - **Twitter:** @SecSign (258 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/4983166 (4 employees on LinkedIn®) ### 13. [Silence Laboratories](https://www.g2.com/products/silence-laboratories/reviews) Silence Laboratories builds private computing infrastructure for cryptographic key management and secure data collaboration. Banks, regulated custodians, exchanges, fintech companies, and wallet infrastructure teams use it to secure digital assets and sensitive data without exposing private keys or raw information to any single party. silencelaboratories.com —— KEY MANAGEMENT AND DIGITAL ASSET CUSTODY Silent Shard is an MPC-based threshold signature SDK for institutional digital asset custody. Key material is distributed across multiple parties and the full private key is never reconstructed during signing. Fastest MPC-TSS implementation available, under 20ms signature generation Supports on-premises deployment, HSM integration, and configurable quorum structures Separation-of-duties workflows for banks and regulated custodians $10B+ assets secured, 10M+ accounts in production Used by BitGo, MetaMask, and ZenGo silencelaboratories.com/silent-shard —— POST-QUANTUM MPC WALLET INFRASTRUCTURE First production implementation of MPC on ML-DSA, the post-quantum digital signature standard finalized by NIST in FIPS 204. BitGo completed the first post-quantum MPC transaction simulation by a regulated custodian using this infrastructure in May 2026. Full announcement: businesswire.com/news/home/20260526229210/en/BitGo-and-Silence-Laboratories-Complete-First-Post-Quantum-MPC-Transaction-Simulation-by-a-Regulated-Custodian silencelaboratories.com/post-quantum-mpc —— PRIVACY-PRESERVING COMPUTATION Silent Compute enables cross-institutional data collaboration without exposing raw data to any party. Analytics, fraud detection, and financial modeling on encrypted data Use cases: open finance, anti-fraud consortiums, cross-border underwriting, private APIs silencelaboratories.com/silent-compute —— SECURITY AND CREDENTIALS 8 independent audits across Cure53, Trail of Bits, HashCloak, and Secfault Security G20 TechSprint 2025 award winner Open source cryptographic libraries: github.com/silence-laboratories Founded by PhD researchers from MIT, NUS, UIUC, and SUTD Headquartered in Singapore **Who Is the Company Behind Silence Laboratories?** - **Seller:** [Silence Laboratories](https://www.g2.com/sellers/silence-laboratories) - **Year Founded:** 2021 - **HQ Location:** Singapore, SG - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/silencelaboratories (30 employees on LinkedIn®) ### 14. [smileidentity](https://www.g2.com/products/smileidentity/reviews) Onboard, verify and authenticate users across Africa. Smile Identity uses Computer vision and Machine learning to validate true identity **Who Is the Company Behind smileidentity?** - **Seller:** [smileidentity](https://www.g2.com/sellers/smileidentity) - **Year Founded:** 2017 - **HQ Location:** Portola Valley, US - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/smileidentity (75 employees on LinkedIn®) ### 15. [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®) ### 16. [SOTI Identity](https://www.g2.com/products/soti-identity/reviews) SOTI Identity enables simple and secure access to the SOTI ONE Platform suite of solutions. It provides centralized user authentication, single sign-on (SSO) and role management, empowering organizations to create seamless, integrated mobility management workflows. **Who Is the Company Behind SOTI Identity?** - **Seller:** [SOTI](https://www.g2.com/sellers/soti) - **Year Founded:** 1995 - **HQ Location:** Mississauga, ON - **Twitter:** @SOTI_Inc (4,613 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/600561/ (2,224 employees on LinkedIn®) ### 17. [Strata | Identity Orchestration](https://www.g2.com/products/strata-identity-orchestration/reviews) Strata Identity helps identity practitioners modernize their IAM infrastructure in record time and with lower effort—we do this through our Identity Orchestration platform, Maverics. Built for enterprises with complex hybrid and multi-cloud environments, Maverics leverages an innovative recipe-driven approach and enables seamless integration and management of multi-generational identity systems. All done without altering the user access experience or making changes to the applications. Our software decouples applications from identity, facilitating the implementation of modern authentication methods such as passwordless/MFA to any app and ensuring consistent access policies enforcement without the need for refactoring. The leadership team is made up of industry pioneers who have significantly contributed to the identity management space. They have established the IDQL (Identity Query Language) standard and created Hexa, an open-source software for multi-cloud policy orchestration. In addition, they are co-authors of the SAML standard for SSO federation, cementing their reputation as influential figures in the sector. To learn more about Strata Identity and our Identity Orchestration platform, Maverics, please visit our website: strata.io or connect with us on socials! Discover how we're revolutionizing identity management for hybrid and multi-cloud environments and explore ways we can reduce complexity and accelerate your identity objectives. **Who Is the Company Behind Strata | Identity Orchestration?** - **Seller:** [Strata Identity](https://www.g2.com/sellers/strata-identity) - **Year Founded:** 2019 - **HQ Location:** Boulder, Colorado, United States - **Twitter:** @Strataidentity (166 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/strata-identity/ (68 employees on LinkedIn®) ### 18. [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 #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of Strivacity? **"[Incredible Solution and Amazing Team](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/strivacity-review-5018894)"** **Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars *— Ken M.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/strivacity-review-5018894) --- #### What Are G2 Users Discussing About Strivacity? - [What is Strivacity used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-strivacity-used-for) ### 19. [SuperTokens](https://www.g2.com/products/supertokens/reviews) SuperTokens is an open source user authentication solution backed by Y-Combinator. We're an alternative to Auth0, Firebase Auth and AWS Cognito. Using our SDKs developers can add secure, hassle free authentication to their mobile application or website in less than a day. We enable startups to launch quicker and focus on their core product offering. We're a remote company with offices in San Francisco, California, USA and Mumbai, Maharashtra, India. We provide the following features: 1. Different types of login: - Email / password - Passwordless (OTP or Magic link based) - Social / OAuth 2.0 - Multi-factor authentication - Microservice authentication 2. Access control (RBAC) 3. Session management 4. User management 5. Self hosted / managed cloud For more information, please visit: https://github.com/supertokens **Average Rating:** 5.0/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 1 **Who Is the Company Behind SuperTokens?** - **Seller:** [SuperTokens](https://www.g2.com/sellers/supertokens) - **HQ Location:** San Francisco, US - **LinkedIn® Page:** http://www.linkedin.com/company/supertokens (18 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Company Size:** 100% Small-Business #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of SuperTokens? **"[SuperTokens! Must have app for Session Management](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/supertokens-review-4251269)"** **Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars *— Aliyah M.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/supertokens-review-4251269) --- #### What Are G2 Users Discussing About SuperTokens? - [What is SuperTokens used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-supertokens-used-for) ### 20. [SurePassID Authentication Server](https://www.g2.com/products/surepassid-authentication-server/reviews) SurePassID is a leading provider of authentication solutions for demanding critical infrastructure environments, including on-premise, air-gapped, and hybrid systems. SurePassID seamlessly secures users and applications across Information Technology (IT) and Operational Technology (OT) while maintaining physical/logical separation and meeting the latest Zero Trust mandates. SurePassID offers 6 Nines (99.9999%) of availability; passwordless, phishing-resistant multi-factor authentication (MFA); SAML 2.0 IdP on-prem or in the cloud; FIPS 140 and AES 256 cryptography; unmatched technical support; and a wealth of other features. To find out more, please visit www.surepassid.com. **Who Is the Company Behind SurePassID Authentication Server?** - **Seller:** [SurePassID](https://www.g2.com/sellers/surepassid) - **Year Founded:** 2010 - **HQ Location:** St. Petersburg, US - **Twitter:** @SurePassID (43 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/surepassid/ (8 employees on LinkedIn®) ### 21. [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®) ### 22. [Thales FIDO and FIDO2 Security Keys](https://www.g2.com/products/thales-fido-and-fido2-security-keys/reviews) FIDO-compliant authenticators from Thales Group provide a practical, standards-based approach to passwordless authentication. By replacing passwords with FIDO2 security keys, organizations reduce exposure to phishing and account takeover while simplifying user access and complying with the highest security standards. Built on asymmetric cryptography, Thales FIDO2 hardware security keys are phishing-resistant and protect against man-in-the-middle attacks by binding credentials to trusted domains and storing private keys securely on the device.  Available in multiple form factors, including USB tokens and smart cards, these hardware keys support authentication across devices such as laptops and mobile phones as well as shared workstations. Users authenticate themselves. Security keys provide the necessary authentication factors, including something you have (physical token), something you know (PIN) or something you are (fingerprint), and something you do (touching token edge). They support FIDO2.0, FIDO2.1, WebAuthN, U2F. In addition, Thales hybrid FIDO2 authenticators support PKI, enabling digital signature, file encryption and phishing resistant authentication based on certificates to access legacy digital resources and FIDO to access modern digital resources.  Thales hybrid FIDO smart cards support physical access, enabling the deployment of converged badges for digital and physical access in your organization. By eliminating passwords and reducing help desk dependency, Thales helps organizations lower IT overhead while deploying strong, future-ready authentication. **Who Is the Company Behind Thales FIDO and FIDO2 Security Keys?** - **Seller:** [Thales Group](https://www.g2.com/sellers/thales-group) - **HQ Location:** Austin, Texas - **Twitter:** @ThalesCloudSec (6,935 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/thalessoftwaremonetization/ (1,470 employees on LinkedIn®) - **Ownership:** EPA:HO - **Total Revenue (USD mm):** $15,854 ### 23. [Thales OneWelcome Identity Platform](https://www.g2.com/products/thales-onewelcome-identity-platform/reviews) The Thales OneWelcome Identity Orchestrator (IO) is a next-gen Visual Orchestration tool that enables no-code orchestration of any user journey and acts as the central engine of an Identity Fabric, moving organizations away from siloed, product‑centric deployments toward a more connected, risk-aware system of systems that can compute dynamic decisions based on all available contextual signals. As a cloud-based component, IO provides a visual interface and execution engine to manage complex interactions across B2C, B2B, and gig worker markets. **Average Rating:** 4.8/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 2 **Who Is the Company Behind Thales OneWelcome Identity Platform?** - **Seller:** [Thales Group](https://www.g2.com/sellers/thales-group) - **HQ Location:** Austin, Texas - **Twitter:** @ThalesCloudSec (6,935 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/thalessoftwaremonetization/ (1,470 employees on LinkedIn®) - **Ownership:** EPA:HO - **Total Revenue (USD mm):** $15,854 **Who Uses This Product?** - **Company Size:** 50% Enterprise, 50% Mid-Market #### What Are Thales OneWelcome Identity Platform's Pros and Cons? **Pros:** - Access Management (1 reviews) - Authentication (1 reviews) - Easy Access (1 reviews) - Security (1 reviews) **Cons:** - Complex Setup (2 reviews) - Expensive (1 reviews) ### What Do G2 Reviewers Say About Thales OneWelcome Identity Platform? *AI-generated summary from verified user reviews* **Pros:** - Users appreciate the **secure and convenient access management** of Thales OneWelcome, enhancing their overall experience effortlessly. - Users value the **multifactor and adaptive authentication** features for enhancing security and preventing unauthorized access. - Users appreciate the **smooth and convenient access management** of Thales OneWelcome, enhancing their overall experience and efficiency. - Users appreciate the **secure access management** of Thales OneWelcome, enjoying a smooth, frictionless experience for their teams. **Cons:** - Users find the **initial setup complex** , which complicates the implementation process and affects overall usability. - Users find the platform **expensive** due to complex setup and unclear pricing, leading to uncertainty about costs. #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of Thales OneWelcome Identity Platform? **"[Secure, Frictionless Access Management with Thales OneWelcome Identity Platform](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/thales-onewelcome-identity-platform-review-11151239)"** **Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars *— Vishal P.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/thales-onewelcome-identity-platform-review-11151239) --- **"[The Powerful Solution for Securtiy](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/thales-onewelcome-identity-platform-review-10919996)"** **Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars *— neha v.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/thales-onewelcome-identity-platform-review-10919996) --- ### 24. [TOTPBOX](https://www.g2.com/products/totpbox/reviews) TOTPBOX is a dedicated two-factor authentication manager that enforces a strict security boundary: it stores TOTP secrets and recovery codes, never passwords. All data is encrypted with AES-256-GCM on-device, and master keys never leave your device. Unlike password managers that bolt on TOTP as an afterthought, TOTPBOX focuses exclusively on authentication factors. The Auth Health Dashboard visualizes your security posture across all accounts. Passkey migration guidance shows which accounts are ready to upgrade from legacy TOTP to phishing-resistant, hardware-bound credentials (FIDO2/WebAuthn). Key features: Chrome browser extension with TOTP auto-fill AES-256-GCM local encryption Passkey awareness and migration guidance Auth Health Dashboard Recovery Code Vault TOTP and HOTP support Optional encrypted cloud sync (Pro) Team vaults and org dashboards (Team) Pricing: Free (unlimited accounts, local only), Pro ($4/mo, cloud sync), Team ($12/user/mo, shared vaults). **Who Is the Company Behind TOTPBOX?** - **Seller:** [TOTPBOX](https://www.g2.com/sellers/totpbox) - **Year Founded:** 2026 - **HQ Location:** N/A - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/totpbox/ (1 employees on LinkedIn®) ### 25. [TrustOtp](https://www.g2.com/products/trustotp/reviews) TrustOTP is a fast and secure OTP verification platform that provides SMS, Email, and 2FA authentication services for businesses worldwide. It offers real non-VoIP phone numbers from multiple countries, enabling users to receive OTPs and verification codes for apps and websites such as WhatsApp, Telegram, Google, Facebook, Instagram, and more. With global coverage and enterprise-level API integration, TrustOTP helps developers and businesses automate user verification, prevent fraud, and enhance security through reliable OTP delivery. **Who Is the Company Behind TrustOtp?** - **Seller:** [TrustOTP](https://www.g2.com/sellers/trustotp) - **HQ Location:** N/A - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/No-Linkedin-Presence-Added-Intentionally-By-DataOps (1 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) - [Identity and Access Management (IAM) Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/identity-and-access-management-iam) - [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.