Best authentication methods to secure your business

No firewall or antivirus can save a business that relies on weak logins.The best authentication method protects your business from common threats without getting in the way. Strong, random passwords are the first line of defense. However, multi-factor authentication methods such as a time-based one-time password add a crucial second layer.

Good authentication doesn’t rely on memory or habit. It relies on systems built to ensure security. Here’s what you need to know.

TeamPassword features an integrated TOTP authenticator, so teams can share accounts protected by MFA. 

What is authentication?

Authentication is the process of proving identity. It answers one question: Is this person who they claim to be? The answer might come from a password, a fingerprint, or a one-time code.

Authentication happens at every access point. Logging in, unlocking, and verifying identity all rely on it. It’s the entry point to every secure system, and everything that follows, including authorization, depends on getting it right.

Authentication vs. authorization

Authentication and authorization are two pillars of security, but they serve distinct roles. Authentication confirms identity, i.e. you are who you say you are. Authorization follows, defining what you can do once that identity is verified. One establishes trust, while the other enforces limits.

Understanding their relationship helps clarify how secure access works. The table below breaks down the key differences between authentication and authorization, showing how each fits into the bigger security picture.

Passwordless vs. password authentication

Password authentication is the traditional method where users prove their identity by entering a secret string. This relies heavily on users choosing strong, unique passwords and managing them carefully. Despite widespread warnings, weak or reused passwords remain a major security risk.

Passwordless authentication removes the need for passwords entirely. Instead, it uses alternatives like biometrics, magic links, or hardware tokens. This reduces friction for users and cuts down on risks related to stolen or guessed passwords, offering a smoother and often more secure experience.

Single-factor vs. multi-factor authentication

Single-factor authentication requires only one proof of identity, typically a password or personal identification number (PIN). While simple and fast, it leaves accounts vulnerable if that single factor is compromised. Attackers who steal passwords can gain full access.

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) requires two or more proofs from different categories, for example a password followed by a fingerprint or a one-time code. This layered approach dramatically improves security. Even if one factor is breached, the others act as barriers, making unauthorized access far more difficult.

Why is authentication so important?

Authentication is the gatekeeper for digital security. Without it, anyone could access sensitive data, disrupt operations, or impersonate trusted users. Businesses rely on authentication not only to protect their assets but to maintain customer trust and meet regulatory requirements.

Strong authentication reduces risks that come from weak or stolen credentials. It also supports modern workflows, where cloud services, remote work, and mobile devices demand more reliable and flexible access controls.

Here are the contributions that strong authentication make to business cybersecurity:

• Protecting sensitive data: Authentication prevents unauthorized users from viewing or stealing confidential information.

• Meeting compliance requirements: Many regulations mandate strict authentication measures to safeguard personal and financial data.

• Enabling remote work: Secure authentication allows employees to safely access systems from any location.

• Reducing fraud and identity theft: Strong verification helps block attackers who try to impersonate legitimate users.

• Improving user accountability: Authentication creates audit trails linking actions to specific users.

8 types of authentication 

Authentication comes in many forms, each suited to different security needs and user experiences. Understanding the main types helps businesses choose the right mix to protect their systems effectively. 

Here are some of the best authentication methods available today:

1. Password-based authentication

2. Two-factor/multi-factor authentication

3. Biometric authentication

4. Behavioral authentication

5. Single sign-on authentication

6. Certificate-based authentication

7. Token-based authentication

8. Adaptive authentication

Password-based authentication

Passwords remain the most common form of authentication. Users create a secret phrase or string to prove their identity. While simple and widely supported, passwords come with risks if they’re weak, reused, or stolen.

Two-factor/multi-factor authentication

Two-factor or multi-factor authentication (2FA/MFA) requires users to provide multiple proofs before gaining access. This adds layers of security beyond just passwords, making it much harder for attackers to breach accounts.

Common delivery methods for 2FA/MFA include:

• Email: A code is sent to the user’s registered email address for verification.

• SMS: A text message containing a one-time code is sent to the user’s phone. 

• Live phone call: An automated call delivers a code or prompts user confirmation.

• Authenticator app: Authenticator apps generate time-based one-time passwords (TOTPs) and are a more secure version of MFA.

Biometric authentication

Biometric authentication uses unique physical traits to verify identity. It offers convenience and strong security, as these traits are difficult to replicate or steal.

Common types of biometric authentication include:

• Fingerprint: The user’s fingerprint is scanned and matched against a stored template for verification.

• Retina/iris: A scan of the retina or iris patterns provides a highly accurate form of identity confirmation.

• Facial: Facial recognition technology analyzes facial features to authenticate the user.

• Voice: Voice recognition verifies identity based on the unique characteristics of the user’s speech.

• Tongue: While this won’t be happening any time soon, tongue prints are unique, leading some researchers to consider its use for authentication.

Behavioral authentication

Behavioral authentication verifies identity by analyzing patterns in user behavior. It works silently in the background, adding an extra layer of security without disrupting the user experience.

Common examples of behavioral authentication include:

• Typing rhythm: The system measures the speed and pattern of how a user types on a keyboard.

• Mouse movement: Tracking the way a user moves and clicks the mouse helps confirm identity.

• Device handling: Sensors detect how a user holds or interacts with a device, like a smartphone.

• Navigation habits: Monitoring the user’s typical paths and actions within an application or website.

Single sign-on authentication

Single sign-on (SSO) authentication allows users to access multiple applications or systems with one set of credentials. This reduces the need to remember numerous passwords and lowers the risk of weak or reused passwords.

By centralizing authentication, SSO simplifies user management and can improve security when paired with strong verification methods.

Certificate-based authentication

Certificate-based authentication uses digital certificates to verify a user or device’s identity. These certificates are issued by trusted authorities and serve as electronic passports.

This method is common in enterprise environments and helps secure network access, email communication, and virtual private network (VPN) connections by proving authenticity without relying on passwords.

Token-based authentication

Token-based authentication provides users with a digital token after they successfully log in. This token serves as proof of identity and grants access to resources without repeatedly entering credentials.

Tokens can take various forms, such as hardware devices, software-generated codes, or encrypted digital keys. They enhance security by limiting the exposure of passwords and enabling easier session management.

Adaptive authentication

Adaptive authentication adjusts the level of verification based on the context of the login attempt. It can make authentication easier or harder depending on factors like device trustworthiness, location, or network security.

For example, a login from a recognized device on a trusted network might require only a password, while an attempt from a new device or unusual location could trigger additional verification steps.

TeamPassword combines the best authentication method with a password manager

Strong authentication is the foundation of secure access. Without it, even the best systems remain vulnerable to breaches and unauthorized use. Businesses need solutions that make adopting gold standard multi-factor authentication straightforward and reliable.

TeamPassword simplifies this by combining a powerful password manager with a built-in TOTP authenticator. This integration helps users create strong, unique passwords and secure accounts with time-based one-time passwords all within a single, easy-to-use platform.

TeamPassword makes it easy for all team members to take authentication seriously. Don’t believe us? Sign up for a 14-day free trial today and try for yourself.