Glossary

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Identity Access Management

What is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)?

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is a security mechanism that requires users to present two or more independent forms of verification to prove their identity before gaining access to a system, application, or device. The factors are typically categorized as:

Something you know (e.g., password or PIN),
Something you have (e.g., smartphone, token, smart card), and
Something you are (e.g., fingerprint, facial recognition)

By requiring multiple factors, MFA makes it significantly harder for unauthorized users to access systems, even if one credential is compromised.

Why is Multi-Factor Authentication Important?

Passwords alone are no longer sufficient to protect against modern threats such as phishing, credential stuffing, and brute-force attacks. MFA strengthens security by adding additional layers of defense, making unauthorized access more difficult even if usernames or passwords are leaked or stolen.

In critical infrastructure environments, where users may access sensitive OT systems remotely, MFA is especially important. Regulatory standards including NERC CIP, IEC 62443, TSA SD02E, NIS2, and Saudi OTCC-1:2022 mandate the use of MFA for accessing critical systems and control zones

MFA also supports Zero Trust Architecture, which assumes that no user or device is inherently trusted. By verifying identity at multiple levels, MFA helps enforce continuous trust validation and risk-based access.

How Does Xona Help with Multi-Factor Authentication?

Xona integrates seamlessly with MFA solutions via SAML, RADIUS, and identity providers such as Active Directory, LDAP, and leading third-party MFA tools. MFA is enforced at the access gateway before any connection is established with target systems, ensuring users are fully verified before they interact with sensitive IT or OT environments.

Beyond login, Xona supports Layered MFA (or Multi-Level MFA) by enabling administrators to require re-authentication before executing high-risk actions or extending privileged sessions. This ensures defense-in-depth across the session lifecycle, rather than relying solely on login-time verification.

MFA is just one part of Xona’s secure access platform, which also includes role-based and time-based access controls, credential injection, and session isolation. Together, these capabilities ensure that only verified users can gain access, only when necessary, and only to the systems they’re authorized to use.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the three primary types of authentication factors used in MFA?

They include something you know (e.g., password), something you have (e.g., token or smartphone), and something you are (e.g., biometric data).

Why is MFA more secure than using passwords alone?

MFA adds additional layers of verification, making it significantly harder for attackers to gain access, even if a password is compromised.

Is Multi-Factor Authentication required for compliance in critical infrastructure?

Yes, standards like NERC CIP, IEC 62443, TSA SD02E, and NIS2 require MFA to protect access to critical systems and reduce identity-related risk.

Can MFA be used for both remote and onsite access?

Yes, MFA can and should be enforced regardless of whether users are accessing systems remotely or from within the trusted network.

How does MFA support Zero Trust security models?

MFA helps enforce continuous verification of identity, a core principle of Zero Trust, by ensuring users are authenticated using more than one method before access is granted.

How does Xona implement and enhance MFA in critical environments?

Xona integrates with identity providers and MFA platforms to enforce authentication before access and supports layered MFA during sessions for actions requiring elevated trust or control.