What is the purpose of using two-factor authentication?

The purpose of using two-factor authentication (2FA) is to enhance security through additional verification. By requiring two distinct forms of identification before granting access, 2FA creates an extra layer of protection against unauthorized access. Typically, this involves a combination of something the user knows (like a password) and something the user has (like a smartphone app that generates a time-sensitive code or a physical token). This means that even if a password is compromised, an attacker would still need the second factor to gain access, significantly reducing the risk of breaches.

While increasing speed, improving convenience, and simplifying password management might appear beneficial outcomes, they are not the core functions of two-factor authentication. The primary objective remains focused on enhancing security, making it a critical practice in protecting sensitive information in various online services and applications.