2-factor authentication (2FA) is an authentication process that is comprised of two elements. The first is something you know, such as a password. The second is something you have, usually a security token or a smart card. 2FA increases your security because if a hacker manages to steal one factor—like your password—they won't be able to gain access without the second factor.

2-factor authentication (2FA) greatly increases your identification and access security by adding a second "factor" to the authentication process. 2FA helps protect crucial data and information, such as bank accounts and confidential records, without the need to manage multiple complex passwords.

Advancements in technology mean hackers have many easy ways to steal static passwords. Common attacks include malware, phishing, Man-In-the-Middle (MITM) attacks, and much more. If the password you use is static, it never changes, which makes it possible for hackers to steal it and use it to access your internal networks. This is why using a second factor to secure your account access keeps you much safer.

U2F, or Universal Second Factor, is an open authentication standard created by the FIDO Alliance designed to let you securely sign in to a number of web-based services. It's effective at combating real-time attacks such as Man-in-the-Middle (MITM).