Which authentication methods will you choose in 2022?


Authentication is a technique that allows authorized users to access a system while unauthorized users are restricted from it. It is extremely important to maintain the system's integrity and keep it safe from unwanted users because unauthorized people can cause harm to your website or system, as well as the confidentiality of users' data.
There are some different authentication techniques used today, and here we will discuss which one of those will be the right for you.
The best authentication methods to choose in 2022
The following are the best authentication methods to choose from in 2022.
- Behavior biometrics
Biometrics or behavior biometrics is an authentication method restricted to an individual. Everyone has a different pattern for entering their password, speaking, and other behavior. This authentication method uses artificial intelligence to capture and process a user's interaction with the system.
It is one of the more secure authentication methods considering that it cannot be stolen or duplicated. Behavior biometric authentication method also enhances the experience by shortening the time to authenticate.
- Passwords
Passwords are the traditional and most commonly used authentication method, allowing users full control over their passwords. Certain requirements to make passwords strong vary across websites, like password length, character inclusion, and capital letter inclusion. These are easy to use but also easy to crack and duplicate, which can compromise security.
- Token
Token authentication uses unique access tokens for verification of identity. You can think of it as hardware-level protection because it is accessed with a smart card. When this authentication method is used, the security can be enhanced, but some tokens are easy to replicate, especially RFID cards. Additionally, these can result in security breaches if an individual loses their token.
- 2 Factor Authentication
2FA is an authentication method that uses two different security factors to authenticate. The most common combination used for 2FA authentication is a password and an OTP. As the OTP is only received on the user's email or phone number, the chances of any unauthorized user accessing their account only by cracking the password of their account are minimized.
Thus, it protects the network from several vulnerabilities.
- Multi-factor authentication
MFA takes 2FA to the next level for security because multiple factors are needed for authenticating here. For example, a simple login to a system may need you to enter the password and the OTP and use the token for authentication. In this way, even when the unauthorized user has hold of one of these factors, accessing the system is almost impossible for them.
This authentication method uses time-sensitive factors, which make it even harder to crack. However, this increased security may cost you your users' experience.
- Single Sign-on
Single Sign-On is an authentication method where the users only need to log in once, and then they can easily access the network or application without logging in again. SSO systems also use some tokens to verify the authenticity of users, but these are amazing at saving time and offer a great user experience.
Which of these is the best for you?
Each of these authentication methods comes with specific benefits, and the one with the highest security is the one that includes using multiple factors at once. This way, the chances of any unauthorized user cracking your system will be significantly reduced.
However, using multiple factors simultaneously can also increase the time to authenticate, which may result in a bad experience. So, when choosing a secure authentication method for your needs, it is best to go according to the security requirements of your system.
Conclusion
Different authentication methods can only verify the user's identity to let legit users access a system. While the goal is the same, different methods can provide different levels of security and experience. That's why selecting the right one is so crucial. To improve the security of your system in 2022, you can choose any of the discussed authentication methods for the best results.
Image source: Freepik / RawPixel