Multi-factor authentication: which option is actually secure?
Introduction
Authentication is the process of verifying the identity of a user or entity. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) enhances security by requiring multiple forms of verification beyond a single password. In this blog post, we will evaluate the security of various MFA options, focusing on SMS OTP, TOTP apps, hardware keys, and passkeys.
Security Evaluation
To compare the security of these MFA options, we will use a scoring system based on three criteria: security, usability, and implementation complexity.
| MFA Option | Security | Usability | Implementation Complexity |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMS OTP | Low | Medium | Low |
| Google Authenticator (TOTP) | Medium | High | Medium |
| Authenticator App (TOTP) | Medium | High | Medium |
| Security Key | High | Medium | High |
| Passkey | High | High | Very High |
Security
SMS OTP is the least secure MFA option due to its reliance on SMS delivery, which can be intercepted or spoofed. Google Authenticator (TOTP) and Authenticator App (TOTP) use a shared secret, which is more secure than SMS OTP. Security Keys use a dedicated hardware device, which is more secure than TOTP. Passkeys use a biometric authentication, which is the most secure MFA option.
Usability
Google Authenticator (TOTP) and Authenticator App (TOTP) are the most user-friendly MFA options due to their simplicity and ease of use. SMS OTP is the least user-friendly due to the need to receive and enter the OTP via SMS. Security Keys require additional setup and may be less convenient for some users. Passkeys are the most user-friendly due to their ability to authenticate with a biometric, which is a natural and intuitive process.
Implementation Complexity
SMS OTP is the most complex MFA option due to its reliance on SMS delivery and the need for users to receive and enter the OTP via SMS. Google Authenticator (TOTP) and Authenticator App (TOTP) are the least complex due to their simplicity and ease of use. Security Keys require additional setup and may be more complex for some users. Passkeys are the most complex due to their ability to authenticate with a biometric, which may require additional setup and training.
Bastionary
Bastionary is a self-hosted authentication and billing platform that provides features like feature flags and licensing. It offers a secure and customizable authentication infrastructure that can be used with any MFA option, including SMS OTP, TOTP, Security Keys, and Passkeys. Bastionary can help you protect your applications and services from unauthorized access and ensure that your users are authenticated securely.
Conclusion
The choice of MFA option depends on your specific security requirements, usability needs, and implementation complexity. Security Keys and Passkeys are the most secure and user-friendly MFA options, but they require additional setup and may be more complex for some users. Google Authenticator (TOTP) and Authenticator App (TOTP) are the least secure and user-friendly MFA options, but they are the most practical for many users. Bastionary can help you create a secure and customizable authentication infrastructure that can be used with any MFA option.