What type of authentication requires multiple credentials or factors for access?

Multifactor Authentication (MFA) is designed to enhance security by requiring users to provide multiple forms of verification before accessing a system or application. This method combines two or more of the following factors: something the user knows (like a password), something the user has (such as a smartphone or a hardware token), and something the user is (biometric factors like fingerprint or facial recognition).

The effectiveness of MFA lies in its ability to mitigate the risk of unauthorized access; even if one factor, like a password, is compromised, the additional factors provide a heightened layer of protection. This is essential in today's environment where cyber threats are increasingly sophisticated.

In contrast, Single-factor Authentication relies solely on one credential, which is typically a password, making it less secure. Device Authentication and Token-based Authentication may involve additional methods but do not fully encompass the need for multiple distinct credentials as required in MFA. Hence, MFA stands out as the most secure option when multiple credentials are necessary for access.