In various situations, giving access to confidential information to a user with only a username and a password is not sufficient. There are several techniques and devices that a hacker can use to discover any username or password (for example, a key logger).
Strong authentication consists in adding a physical key to the identification process. The user needs this key, in addition to his username and password in order to be able to gain access to the restricted information. This way, the hacker can no longer access the restricted information using only the user account information, he must also steel the user’s key. Identity theft becomes more complicated for the hacker, and more easily detected by the security mechanisms. The user whose key has been stolen will most likely inform the employees in charge of the network right away.
When properly implemented, a strong authentication solution will simplify logon procedures for your employees since all the usernames and passwords they need to perform their tasks will be memorized. They will only need to enter their user account information once when they log in and they will automatically be granted access to all the applications and sites they use. |