What is MFA? 

When it comes to protecting your business and its sensitive information, multi-factor authentication (MFA) is a must-have. Think of it like having a bouncer at the door of your digital property. Not only does it require a password, but it also adds an extra layer of protection by asking for a second form of identification. What is MFA? Read on to find out more.

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is an important security measure for all businesses whether large or small. It adds an extra layer of protection to your login process by requiring users to provide two or more forms of identification before accessing sensitive information or systems. 

Most modern IT Systems are capable of using MFA and Microsoft 365 (formerly known as Microsoft Office 365) is no different, MFA should definitely be configured if you are using M365. 

Why do I need MFA? 

Think of all the sensitive information your business has: customer data, financial records, and confidential documents. With MFA, even if someone manages to steal a password, they still won’t be able to access that information without the second form of identification.  In other words, you are protecting your customers, and their data, by implementing MFA. 

One way to describe the main benefits of MFA is that it helps to prevent unauthorized access to your business’s sensitive data. Passwords can be easily guessed or stolen, but with MFA, even if a hacker manages to obtain a user’s password, they still won’t be able to access the account without the additional forms of identification.  These additional forms of identification can take different shapes, but you can see more about the different options here Which form of MFA is most secure.  

MFA also helps to reduce the risk of data breaches. You are probably well aware how costly and damaging those can be for a business, both financially and reputationally.  With MFA, it’s much harder for hackers to gain access to your systems and steal that sensitive information. 

Another perk of MFA is that it can help with compliance. Many industries have specific regulations that require businesses to implement certain security measures, and MFA is often one of them. By using it, you can show that you’re taking the necessary steps to protect sensitive information and meet those regulations and more importantly, prove that you haven’t been negligent, if something does go wrong.. 

Summary 

MFA is a great way to improve the overall security of your business. Cyber threats are on the rise, so it’s important to have multiple layers of protection in place. MFA is a simple and effective way to add an extra layer of security to your business.  It is like having a VIP pass to your digital property. It adds an extra layer of protection, reduces the risk of data breaches, helps with compliance and improves overall security. It’s a no-brainer for any business. So, it’s better to be safe than sorry, and protect your business with MFA today. 

If you are an existing IT Support customer with ESP, get in touch with your Strategic Account Manager today.  If you are not a customer of ESP, but you do require some help with MFA, drop us a note via our Contact Us page and we’ll do our best to help in any way we can.