Physical Two Factor Authentication Methods

Physicial devices can be used as two factor authentication methods to protect your online accounts. These are devices you would interact with to access your bank accounts, credit cards accounts, social media accounts and more.

This guide will explain how different physical two factor authentication methods work, as well as some considerations to take note of when using these devices.

• USB Security Keys: Devices that connect to a computer's USB port. They use cryptographic protocols to provide a secure means of authentication. USB security keys are often used in conjunction with a user's password. They are also known as hardware tokens or USB tokens. Yubikeys are an example of such a device.
• Security Tokens: Small devices that display a constantly changing digital code that users must enter as part of the authentication process. The code is time-based and synchronized with the authentication system.
• Biometric Tokens: These devices incorporate biometric technology for authentication, such as fingerprint scanners or iris scanners. Users need to provide their biometric data to verify their identity in addition to other authentication factors.
• Mobile Authentication Devices: Dual-factor authentication systems may use mobile devices as an authentication factor. These devices generate one-time passwords (OTPs) or receive push notifications for authentication purposes. Mobile apps can also act as authenticators, generating OTPs or scanning QR codes.
• One-Time Password Tokens: Small devices that generate unique passwords or codes for each authentication attempt. OTP tokens typically display the password on a small screen and are synchronized with the authentication system.
• Smart Cards: Credit card-sized devices that are embedded with a microchip. They require a card reader to function properly. Smart cards often require a PIN or a password in addition to the physical card for authentication.
• Magnetic Stripe Cards: These cards have a magnetic stripe on the back that stores information used for authentication. They are often used in combination with a PIN or password.
• Proximity Cards: These cards use radio frequency identification (RFID) or near-field communication (NFC) technology for authentication. The card needs to be in proximity to a card reader or scanner to enable authentication.