IDC PlanScape: IT Security — Using Multifactor Authentication

IDC PlanScape: IT Security — Using Multifactor Authentication

This IDC study provides senior technology leaders with a multifaceted approach to multifactor authentication. Multifactor authentication provides organizations with an effective security control that overcomes the weaknesses of knowledge-based authentication and protects network, application, and data assets in an increasingly sophisticated threat environment. By combining passwords with physical devices and/or biometric measurements, organizations add a layer of strong security and protect themselves against password theft."Multifactor authentication is a time-tested approach that has now come of age," says Mike Chapple, adjunct analyst with IDC's IT Executive Programs (IEP). "Organizations recognize that they face an increasing threat from the compromise of password-based credentials; knowledge-based authentication simply doesn't provide an adequate level of protection against those threats. Push-based authentication using smartphones is both simple for end users and cost-effective for the organization."

Please Note: Extended description available upon request.


IDC PlanScape Figure
Executive Summary
Why Is Using Multifactor Authentication Important?
What's Wrong with Passwords?
Multifactor Authentication Builds Upon Passwords
Regulation Often Drives Adoption
User Attitudes Toward Multifactor Are Changing
What Is Using Multifactor Authentication?
What Isn't Multifactor?
Smartphones Play a Critical Role in Multifactor Authentication
Who Are the Key Stakeholders?
How Can My Organization Take Advantage of Using Multifactor Authentication?
Begin with a Pilot Rollout
Add Users in Waves
Add Services on a Parallel Track
Communicate Frequently
Advice for Technology Leaders
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