Verify new users with Plivo

In the interconnected world of apps, websites, and digital services, ensuring secure user access is more critical than ever. That’s where authentication and authorization come into play. These two terms often appear side-by-side in conversations about cybersecurity and user access, but they’re far from interchangeable.

Think of authentication as verifying your identity at the door, and authorization as the VIP list determining what areas you can access once inside. Both are essential for keeping digital spaces secure, but their roles are distinct—and understanding the difference is key to building safer systems and more seamless user experiences.

In this blog, we’ll break down the fundamentals of authentication and authorization, explore how they work together, and examine why they matter for individuals and organizations alike.

How does authentication verify user identity?

Authentication is the cornerstone of digital security, tasked with verifying that a user or entity is genuinely who they claim to be. Without authentication, systems cannot differentiate between legitimate users and malicious actors attempting unauthorized access.

At its core, authentication involves a user providing credentials—such as a username and password—that are compared against stored data. If the credentials match, the system permits access. However, traditional methods like passwords have vulnerabilities, prompting the adoption of more advanced techniques.

What are the common types of authentication methods?

Authentication mechanisms can be classified into three main categories based on the type of credentials required:

1. Something you know: Includes passwords, PINs, and answers to security questions. These methods rely on the assumption that only the authorized user knows the required information.
2. Something you have: Examples include physical devices like security tokens, mobile phones for OTP delivery, or smart cards. These add an extra layer of security by requiring possession of an item.
3. Something you are: Biometric authentication leverages unique physical attributes like fingerprints, iris scans, or facial recognition, making it one of the most secure forms of identity verification.

Combining these methods through multi-factor authentication (MFA) strengthens security by requiring two or more forms of verification.

Why is multi-factor authentication (MFA) critical?

While traditional authentication methods offer a basic level of security, they can be vulnerable to attacks such as phishing or credential theft. This is where multi-factor authentication (MFA) comes in—by requiring two or more verification methods, MFA significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access. For instance, a banking application might require both a password (something you know) and an OTP sent to your mobile device (something you have) before granting access.

MFA mitigates common vulnerabilities of single-factor authentication by making it harder for attackers to breach systems, even if one credential is compromised. It is particularly important for high-security environments such as financial institutions or cloud services.

How does authentication operate in cloud environments?

With businesses rapidly shifting to cloud-based platforms, authentication must evolve to meet the challenges of remote access and global connectivity. Cloud computing, with its shared infrastructure and global accessibility, demands robust authentication mechanisms. Traditional username-password combinations are often insufficient, so advanced approaches like token-based authentication and Single Sign-On (SSO) are widely used. These methods simplify access for users while maintaining strict security standards.

For example, SSO enables users to authenticate once and access multiple applications seamlessly. Coupled with standards like OAuth 2.0 and OpenID Connect, SSO ensures both security and convenience, making it an integral part of modern authentication in cloud environments.

How do authentication and authorization work together?

Authentication and authorization are integral processes that work in sequence to protect systems and data. Authentication identifies who the user is, while authorization determines their permissions within the system. Together, they ensure that only verified users gain access to the resources they are allowed to use, forming a robust framework for digital security.

Why must authentication always precede authorization?

Authentication and authorization are sequential processes that work in tandem to secure systems and data. Authentication verifies a user’s identity, forming the foundation for authorization to define what the user can do within the system. Without authentication, a system cannot determine whether a user is legitimate, making it impossible to assign permissions accurately.

For example, consider an enterprise resource management system. Authentication ensures a user, such as a department manager, is genuinely who they claim to be. Once authenticated, authorization evaluates their role and grants access to department-specific data while restricting other sensitive areas, such as payroll records for other departments.

What protocols effectively integrate authentication and authorization?

1. OpenID Connect (OIDC)
   OIDC, built on OAuth 2.0, focuses on user authentication by verifying identity and providing ID tokens to applications. It is particularly useful in Single Sign-On (SSO) environments, enabling users to authenticate once and access multiple applications seamlessly.
2. OAuth 2.0
   OAuth 2.0 primarily handles authorization. It issues access tokens that grant limited permissions to third-party applications. For instance, a user can authorize a travel app to access their calendar to book flights without sharing their login credentials.

Together, OIDC and OAuth 2.0 provide a cohesive framework for managing authentication and authorization, ensuring secure and streamlined access control.

How do authentication and authorization complement each other in IAM systems?

Identity and Access Management (IAM) systems rely on the synergy between authentication and authorization to provide comprehensive security. While authentication confirms a user’s identity, authorization enforces granular access controls based on predefined policies.

For example:

• A marketing analyst authenticates into a shared cloud platform.
• Authorization allows access to customer analytics dashboards but restricts access to sensitive financial data meant for the finance team.

This integration not only enhances security but also improves the user experience by ensuring users can seamlessly access the resources they need without encountering unnecessary barriers.

What are the strengths and weaknesses of traditional authentication methods?

Traditional authentication methods often rely on verifying something a user knows, such as a password or PIN. While straightforward and familiar, these methods have inherent weaknesses:

1. Password-based authentication:
   
   • Strengths: Universally understood and simple to implement.
   • Weaknesses: Susceptible to phishing, brute-force attacks, and credential stuffing. Users often reuse or create weak passwords, making them a common attack vector.
2. Knowledge-based authentication (KBA):
   
   • Strengths: Uses answers to security questions, adding an extra layer of protection.
   • Weaknesses: Answers can often be guessed or researched, especially when questions rely on personal information.

These methods, while widely used, require additional safeguards to address their vulnerabilities.

How do biometric and possession-based methods enhance authentication?

Authentication methods based on something a user has or is, provide a higher level of security:

1. Possession-based authentication:
   Examples include physical devices like smart cards, security tokens, or mobile phones used to receive one-time passwords (OTPs).
   
   • Strengths: Tied directly to the user's possession, making them harder to replicate.
   • Weaknesses: Devices can be lost or stolen, potentially compromising security.
2. Biometric authentication:
   Employs unique physical traits like fingerprints, retina scans, or voice recognition.
   
   • Strengths: Difficult to forge and highly reliable when implemented correctly.
   • Weaknesses: Biometric data, if compromised, cannot be replaced, raising significant privacy concerns.

These methods often form the foundation of multi-factor authentication (MFA) systems, combining possession or biometric factors with traditional credentials to mitigate risks.

What are adaptive and passwordless authentication techniques?

Advanced authentication techniques are emerging to address the evolving threat landscape and user demands for convenience:

1. Adaptive authentication:
   Uses machine learning and context-aware policies to evaluate risk factors, such as location, device, or login time.
   
   • Example: A system might prompt for additional verification if a user logs in from an unusual location.
   • Strengths: Dynamically adjusts security measures based on risk, improving both security and usability.
2. Passwordless authentication:
   Eliminates the reliance on traditional passwords, using methods like biometrics, hardware tokens, or magic links sent to a user’s email.
   
   • Strengths: Reduces phishing risks and enhances user convenience.
   • Weaknesses: Requires advanced infrastructure and user education for widespread adoption.

These approaches represent the future of secure and user-friendly authentication systems.

What are the key differences and similarities between authentication and authorization?

Authentication and authorization serve distinct purposes in access control systems:

• Authentication: Focuses on verifying identity. It answers the question, "Who are you?" and allows only legitimate users to log in. Examples include passwords, biometric scans, or OTPs.
• Authorization: Determines what a user is allowed to do after they’ve been authenticated. It answers, "What are you allowed to access?" For instance, an authenticated user might be able to view files but not edit them.

The main distinction lies in their roles: authentication validates identity, while authorization defines permissions.

How do tokens facilitate both processes?

In modern access control systems, tokens play a critical role in separating authentication and authorization:

1. ID Tokens:
   
   • Issued during authentication to confirm a user’s identity.
   • Typically contains user details such as name, email, and login time.
   • Example: OpenID Connect generates ID tokens after a user logs in.
2. Access Tokens:
   
   • Issued during authorization to define the permissions granted to the user or application.
   • Allow a user to interact with specific resources (e.g., files, APIs) without revealing sensitive credentials.
   • Example: OAuth 2.0 uses access tokens to permit third-party apps to access user data within predefined limits.

By segregating authentication (ID tokens) and authorization (access tokens), systems maintain both security and clarity in managing access.

How do authentication and authorization complement each other?

Authentication and authorization are complementary processes, working together to provide robust access control:

1. Authentication establishes trust: Ensures that only legitimate users enter the system.
2. Authorization enforces boundaries: Restricts user actions based on predefined policies.

For example, in a corporate email system:

• Authentication verifies an employee’s identity via a company-issued login.
• Authorization determines whether the employee can access confidential documents or edit shared files.

Together, these processes create a multi-layered security approach, minimizing risks like unauthorized access and data breaches.

Why are both authentication and authorization critical for complete security?

Neither authentication nor authorization can independently secure a system. Relying solely on authentication might let verified users access sensitive areas they’re not permitted to view, while exclusive reliance on authorization without authentication would grant access without ensuring the user is legitimate.

For example:

• A cloud storage system might authenticate a user with valid credentials but use authorization to restrict access to sensitive financial reports, ensuring that only authorized roles, such as CFOs, can view them.

This synergy is particularly vital in regulatory compliance environments like HIPAA, where access to sensitive information is strictly governed.

Why is Plivo’s Verify API the ideal solution for user authentication?

Implementing secure and efficient authentication in today’s complex digital landscape requires solutions that are not only robust but also easy to integrate. This is where Plivo’s Verify API shines, offering a comprehensive toolset to streamline user verification while minimizing fraud risks and operational overhead.

How does Plivo simplify global user verification?

Plivo’s Verify API enables businesses to verify users in over 200+ countries effortlessly. Unlike traditional solutions that require navigating complex compliance hurdles, Plivo offers pre-registered sender IDs and pre-approved templates for regions like the US, UK, and India. This means you can go live instantly, without worrying about regulatory paperwork.

What makes Plivo’s authentication approach stand out?

1. Multi-channel delivery for maximum reach:
   Plivo supports OTP delivery across SMS, voice, and WhatsApp, ensuring reliable communication even in areas with inconsistent network connectivity. Upcoming support for RCS and email further expands its versatility.
2. High conversion rates:
   With a 95% OTP conversion rate, Plivo delivers a seamless experience for end-users. Features like Android auto-fill ensure that OTPs are effortlessly entered, reducing user frustration and boosting engagement.
3. Customizable OTP settings:
   Businesses can easily configure language preferences, templates, and delivery channels without requiring complex code changes. This flexibility allows organizations to tailor the authentication experience to their audience.

How does Plivo prevent fraud and reduce costs?

One of the standout features of Plivo’s Verify API is its ability to combat SMS pumping fraud—a common and costly issue for businesses relying on OTP-based authentication.

• AI-driven Fraud Shield:
  Plivo’s Fraud Shield uses machine learning to detect and block fraudulent activity in real time, preventing financial losses caused by illegitimate OTP requests. The solution requires minimal setup, enabling fraud protection with a simple one-click configuration.
• Cost-efficient verification:
  Unlike many competitors, Plivo charges only for the communication channels used, with no hidden fees for verification itself. This ensures businesses maintain control over their costs without sacrificing security.

How does Plivo make integration effortless?

1. Quick deployment:
   Designed with developers in mind, Plivo’s Verify API offers comprehensive documentation, sample code, and SDKs that slash implementation time by 90%. Businesses can go live within a single sprint.
2. Developer-first approach:
   Plivo provides 24/7 technical support through Slack and phone calls, ensuring that developers receive immediate assistance. The guaranteed same-day response time eliminates bottlenecks during critical phases of integration.

Don't let verification headaches slow you down—start using Plivo's reliable and scalable solution today! Get started now and unlock seamless authentication for your app.

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is an essential safeguard for protecting sensitive information. However, as crucial as it is for security, the MFA recovery process can sometimes be a double-edged sword. If users lose access to their authentication method, they risk being locked out of their accounts. Therefore, a robust MFA recovery process should be a critical part of any authentication strategy.

Let’s walk through best practices for MFA account recovery to ensure your users can easily and securely regain access to their accounts.

Authentication requirements for account recovery

While traditional MFA methods provide excellent security, the MFA recovery process requires a slightly different approach. Recovery methods must be easily accessible, and memorable, and allow for a slower authentication process. Recovering an account isn't something most users would be required to do regularly.

The key requirements for a recovery system are:

1. Long-term memorability or access: Users need to easily retrieve their recovery method, even if they don’t use it regularly.
2. A slower authentication process is acceptable: Since account recovery is infrequent, a slight delay in authentication is fine as long as security is not compromised.
3. Widely usable: The recovery method must be accessible and practical for most users across different devices and locations.

The right balance is essential. Your recovery process should be secure enough to prevent unauthorized access but user-friendly enough to prevent frustration. 

Plivo’s Verify API, which supports multiple channels like SMS and in-app push notifications, can be an excellent tool for ensuring users have quick, secure access to their recovery methods.

What are the options for account recovery?

Gone are the days of relying on security questions for account recovery. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has since recommended shifting away from these outdated methods due to their vulnerability. Today, the most reliable account recovery options involve using possession-based methods or account activity details.

1. Possession methods

Possession-based recovery methods are more secure than knowledge-based methods like security questions. Examples include:

• Backup codes: These are typically one-time-use codes that can be generated during the initial MFA setup. Users should store these codes securely in case of device loss or other issues. While they may seem simple, they offer a solid layer of security.
• Passkeys: A passwordless option that syncs private keys across devices, making it easier for users to recover their accounts without needing to remember complex passwords. Although passkeys are still being adopted, they offer a promising solution for both MFA and recovery.

Implementing these methods provides a secure fallback when users lose access to their primary authentication methods. Plivo’s Verify API can easily integrate into your system to deliver SMS-based recovery codes, offering both security and simplicity for users who need to regain access.

2. Account activity details

Another way to strengthen your recovery process is by leveraging account activity details. For example, asking users to confirm recent transactions or other identifiable actions can serve as a powerful recovery tool. These methods provide additional layers of security, helping to confirm a user's identity when primary credentials are unavailable.

How can social proof enhance account recovery processes?

Digital services and online platforms such as social networks or apps use trusted contacts or social proof to enhance their recovery processes. This could be a friend or family member who can verify the user’s identity. For example, platforms like Apple and Facebook use recovery contacts, allowing users to set up people who can help them regain access if needed.

However, this method works best for social networks with a large, established user base. If your service doesn’t have this feature built-in, focusing on other recovery options—such as backup codes and passkeys—can still provide strong security and ease of use.

How to strengthen your account recovery process?

To improve your account recovery process, consider the following recommendations:

1. Register additional authentication methods: Ensure that users register multiple recovery methods during account setup. This gives them options to access their account if they lose access to one method.
2. Design recovery processes based on data sensitivity: The higher the value of the data you're protecting, the more robust your recovery process should be. For sensitive services like financial applications, additional security layers are necessary.
3. Require successful MFA setup before new methods: Before enabling new MFA methods, ensure users have successfully completed the MFA setup process to avoid issues during recovery.
4. Prompt users about available recovery options: Regularly remind users of the backup methods available to them, particularly when logging in from new devices or after a password change.

Enhancing recovery process security

When enhancing your recovery process, keep these security measures in mind:

1. Implement waiting periods: For sensitive recoveries, a waiting period can act as a deterrent for unauthorized access attempts. This gives you time to review and confirm that the recovery request is legitimate.
2. Maintain MFA during recovery: Don’t deactivate MFA when users are trying to recover their accounts. This ensures that multiple authentication steps are still in place, preventing unauthorized access.

The MFA recovery process should always remain as secure as possible, even if it’s a bit slower than regular authentication. By adding layers of security, such as SMS or app-based MFA, you can ensure that both you and your users stay protected.

Simplify account recovery with Plivo’s Verify API

Plivo’s Verify API streamlines the MFA recovery process with secure, multi-channel options tailored to your business needs. By integrating Verify API into your authentication system, you can ensure users regain access efficiently while maintaining high-security standards.

Key features of Plivo’s Verify API:

• Multi-Channel support: Deliver recovery codes through SMS, voice, or in-app push notifications. With support for global reach across 220+ countries, Plivo ensures reliable account recovery even in regions with strict messaging regulations.
• Fraud prevention at no extra cost: Plivo’s built-in Fraud Shield detects and blocks fraudulent SMS activity, safeguarding your business from unnecessary costs and security breaches.
• Zero compliance hurdles: Pre-registered sender IDs and templates eliminate regulatory paperwork, allowing you to go live instantly in key markets like the US, UK, and India.
• Seamless integration: Plivo’s developer-first APIs and detailed documentation make it easy to integrate Verify API into your existing workflows. With sample code in popular languages like Python and Java, you can go live in one sprint.
• Scalability: Whether supporting a small user base or scaling to millions of users, Plivo’s infrastructure ensures consistent and reliable performance, even during peak traffic.

Why choose Plivo?

• Cost-Effective: Pay only for channel costs (SMS, voice, or WhatsApp) with no hidden fees or additional charges for verification or fraud prevention.
• Proven performance: Achieve a 95% OTP conversion rate across multiple channels, ensuring seamless user recovery experiences.
• Developer-Friendly: Cut implementation time by 90% with ready-to-use sample code and robust support from Plivo’s engineering team.

By leveraging Plivo’s Verify API, businesses can deliver a hassle-free, secure recovery experience while reducing support costs and protecting user data. Whether scaling globally or enhancing regional workflows, Plivo ensures your multi-factor authentication system remains intact during recovery, minimizing vulnerabilities and maximizing user satisfaction.

Take the next step with Plivo’s Verify API
Empower your business with a secure, cost-effective, and seamless account recovery solution. Whether you’re looking to improve OTP conversion rates, prevent fraud, or streamline user authentication, Plivo’s Verify API delivers the tools you need.

Get started today—integrate our Verify API in under a sprint and experience unparalleled reliability, global scalability, and expert support. Book a demo or request trial access now to see how Plivo can transform your account recovery process.

Most business owners know passwords alone aren’t enough to keep your data safe. Between 2004 and July 2024, passwords were the most frequently leaked type of data, with two billion user passwords leaked during this period.

To better combat data breaches, more companies are turning to stronger authentication methods, such as multi-factor authentication (MFA), single sign-on (SSO), or two-factor authentication (2FA). 

What do all these acronyms mean, and how can you determine which solution is the right fit for your business? In this guide, we’ll break down each approach's core differences, benefits, and security considerations to demonstrate that combining MFA and SSO in a solution like Plivo’s Verify API is best for most businesses.

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What is single sign-on (SSO)?

Single sign-on (SSO) is a user authentication process that allows someone to log in once with a single set of login credentials and access multiple applications or services without needing to re-enter their username and password for each one. 

Think of SSO as a master key that opens many doors—users sign in once and get instant access to all their work tools without having to remember multiple passwords. This approach reduces login headaches and password fatigue, making it easier for users to stay secure and productive.

How does SSO work?

SSO verifies a user’s identity through a centralized system. When the user logs into an SSO portal, the system checks their login credentials. It then generates a token that grants access to various applications within the network, simplifying access management for authorized users. 

5 key benefits of SSO & why you should use it

Single sign-on offers several benefits, but here are five key reasons why you should consider using SSO:

• It streamlines the user experience: With SSO, users only need to use one password to log into a dashboard and access all connected applications—no more wasted time juggling multiple logins.
• It reduces password fatigue: Less is more. Fewer passwords mean less mental load, reducing the risk of weak or reused passwords and enhancing security.
• It improves productivity: Imagine the time saved when users can instantly access all the tools they need. This quick access means more focus on tasks and drives efficiency.
• It simplifies centralized management: IT teams can use SSO to manage user access from a single dashboard. It makes onboarding and offboarding new users smooth and hassle-free. 
• It lowers help desk costs: Fewer passwords mean fewer forgotten credentials. This leads to a significant drop in password reset requests, reducing the burden on IT support teams and cutting help desk costs.

3 key security risks of SSO you should consider

• It creates a single point of failure: If someone gains access to SSO credentials, they could access multiple services connected together, creating a significant security vulnerability.
• It relies on centralized authentication: If the SSO service experiences downtime or technical issues, users may lose access to all associated applications, causing operational disruptions.
• It becomes an attractive target for cyber attacks: Because SSO systems control access to multiple applications, attackers often target them. A successful breach could expose sensitive data across various systems.

What is multi-factor authentication (MFA)?

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) requires users to verify their identity using two or more forms, adding multiple layers of defense against unauthorized access. Think of it as a security system with multiple locks; even if someone knows your password, they still need other credentials to log in. 

How does MFA work?

A lot of people get confused between 2FA and MFA, but here’s the exact difference: 

2FA (two-factor authentication) always requires exactly two forms of verification, usually something you know (like a password) and something you have (like an OTP or security token). On the other hand, MFA covers two or more forms of verification, adding even more layers of security by incorporating things like biometrics (something you are) alongside what you know and have. 

Imagine overlapping circles in a Venn diagram—2FA is one circle inside the broader MFA circle, which lets you combine different layers for extra protection.

In implementation, it could look like this: after typing in your password, you might also need to enter a verification code sent to your phone or use a fingerprint scan. This layered approach makes it significantly harder for unauthorized users to gain access to user accounts.

3 key types of authentication factors used in MFA

Authentication factors are the methods used to confirm a user’s identity. In multi-factor authentication (MFA), at least two different factors are required to gain access. Here's a closer look at the types of authentication factors:

1. Knowledge factors (something you know):

These are login credentials that only the user knows, such as passwords, PINs, or answers to security questions. Knowledge factors are the most common type of authentication but are also considered the least secure due to the risk of being guessed or stolen through phishing attacks.

2. Possession factors (something you have):

These involve something the user physically possesses, like a smartphone, security token, or smart card. Possession factors are generally more secure than knowledge factors because they require an additional physical item that attackers would need to acquire. Common examples include SMS codes sent to a user’s mobile device or authentication apps like Google Authenticator.

3. Inherence factors (something you are):

These are biological traits unique to the user, such as fingerprints, facial recognition, voice recognition, or retina scans. Inherence factors provide a high level of security because they are unique to each individual and are difficult to replicate. This type of factor is commonly used in high-security environments, such as government agencies or financial institutions.

By using multiple authentication factors, MFA creates a layered defense, making it more challenging for attackers to gain unauthorized access.

5 benefits of MFA & why you should use it 

Here are five important benefits for businesses thinking about using MFA. 

• It enhances security. MFA adds multiple layers of security by requiring more than one form of verification, significantly reducing the risk of unauthorized access even if one credential is compromised.
• It protects against credential theft. Since MFA provides multiple authentication layers, even if a password is stolen, additional factors like a biometric scan or a verification code sent to a mobile device make it much harder for attackers to gain access.
• It helps comply with regulatory requirements. Many industries have regulations that require strong authentication methods. Implementing MFA helps businesses comply with PCI DSS, GDPR, and HIPAA standards.
• It reduces the risk of data breaches. By adding extra security layers, MFA helps prevent data breaches, which can save the business from costly fines and reputational damage.
• It improves user trust. Users feel more secure knowing that their accounts and data are protected by multiple layers of authentication, enhancing trust in the organization.

Security risks of MFA

• It can pose usability challenges. MFA can sometimes make the login process more cumbersome, potentially leading to user frustration or reduced productivity if not implemented carefully.
• It is vulnerable to phishing and social engineering attacks. Attackers might still use sophisticated phishing tactics to trick users into providing all required authentication factors, bypassing the additional security layers.
• It relies on secondary factors that can be compromised. If secondary authentication methods (like SMS-based codes) are compromised through SIM swapping or interception, attackers could still gain access despite MFA.

SSO vs MFA: the main differences

Here are five core differences between MFA and SSO:

1. Different goals: MFA enhances security by requiring multiple authentication factors to verify a user's identity. SSO focuses on convenience by allowing access to multiple applications with a single set of credentials; instead of remembering multiple usernames, users can easily sign in once and access all authorized applications they need. 
2. Security vs. convenience: MFA offers stronger protection by requiring multiple authentication methods. SSO, on the other hand, focuses on user convenience, which can lead to vulnerabilities if credentials are compromised.
3. User experience: SSO simplifies the login process and reduces password fatigue. Meanwhile, MFA adds extra steps, which can feel like a hassle to some users but adds extra layers of security.
4. Setup complexity: Setting up MFA involves integrating various authentication methods, which can be complex. SSO requires connecting different applications to one central login, which simplifies user access but can be tricky if not done right.
5. Risk management: MFA minimizes the risk of unauthorized access with extra verification layers, while SSO simplifies access control but can become a single point of failure if hacked.

Both SSO and MFA have their place in your security scheme, depending on what’s more important for your business—security or convenience.

SSO vs. 2FA vs. MFA

When securing access to your systems, understanding the differences between SSO, 2FA, and MFA is crucial. Each method can impact your organization’s security, budget, and user experience. Let’s dive into how these authentication methods compare across key factors.

Cost implications

Implementing MFA or 2FA might involve additional costs due to the need for specialized software or hardware (like biometric scanners or security tokens). SSO solutions can reduce password and user support costs but may require investment in a robust identity management system.

Impact on user experience

SSO enhances user experience by reducing the required logins, while MFA and 2FA may introduce additional steps but offer stronger security. The choice depends on balancing convenience against security measures.

Implications for businesses

Businesses need to consider the nature of their operations, regulatory requirements, and user base when deciding on an authentication method. While MFA offers the highest security, SSO can greatly improve productivity and user satisfaction.

4 important things for selecting the right provider for your organization

If you’re looking for an authentication solution for your business, here are the key things you should consider: 

1. Security needs and compliance requirements

To begin with, consider the sensitivity of the data your organization handles and any regulatory requirements, like GDPR, HIPAA, or PCI DSS, that might mandate specific authentication methods. For high-security environments, a combination of SSO with MFA can provide a balanced approach. 

With Plivo, you get built-in compliance features that help you adhere to regulations without adding extra costs. Plivo's Fraud Shield, for example, protects against SMS pumping fraud, ensuring your authentication processes remain secure and compliant.

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2. User experience and usability

Your authentication method should strike the right balance between security and ease of use, and seamless integration with your current IT infrastructure is key. Plivo simplifies this by offering a reliable OTP solution that integrates effortlessly with your systems, ensuring users get their OTPs when they need them. 

Whether you're using OTPs as part of a 2FA or MFA setup, Plivo guarantees 99.99% uptime, so users never miss a beat. With support for WhatsApp, SMS, and voice call, Plivo provides flexible, secure options to meet your authentication needs without disrupting your existing workflows. 

3. Cost and budget constraints

It’s important to understand the total cost of ownership for your authentication solution, including all associated fees. 

Plivo offers a cost-effective approach: you only pay for the SMS and voice services you use, not for authentication fees. Plus, with Plivo’s pre-registered phone numbers and no monthly rental fees, you can keep operational costs low and predictable.

4. Scalability and flexibility

As your organization grows, your authentication solution should scale with you, accommodating more users, devices, and applications without a hitch. 

Plivo’s solutions are designed to be scalable, supporting global delivery and providing real-time delivery reports so you can track and optimize performance as your needs evolve.

Simplify your MFA rollout with Plivo

Whether you're securing internal systems or protecting customer data, SSO and MFA are crucial for your business. SSO simplifies user access, reducing password fatigue and enhancing user experience, while MFA provides robust protection against unauthorized access by requiring multiple authentication steps.

In today’s digital world, combining SSO with MFA offers the best of both worlds—convenience and robust security. Providers like Plivo make it easy to set up and integrate both, helping you protect your data without sacrificing user experience. 

Request a trial with Plivo.