Two-factor authentication: Understanding the options

Posted by jennifer lopez on August 8th, 2015

Two factor authentication (2FA) or two-step verification (2SV) does not really want an introduction as majority of us are aware of the much talked process. Now there are various modes to perform this procedure to ensure an extra shield to your Gmail account from a harmful attack. This article sheds light on the pros and cons of these processes and also will suggest that what is to be done, when something amiss happens in between?

There are varied 2FA systems that function in different ways and it is very important to comprehend them before accounting for any one of them. And it is highly advisable to opt for any in the list once you have imbibed the related pros and cons. The following text contains the different 2FA processes, elaborating the positives and negatives of each to enlighten the varied customers on all individually.

One time password via message
This method is a specific one which mandates the input of your password, username and the verification that you receive via text on your phone. Now, this is highly secure as each time you want to access the account, each time there will be a different code that is generated and the offender does not get the easy entry to the account. The advantage is that even if the password has been hacked, it is difficult to break through the account and the code is phone number confined which is protected from getting infected. But many times there is problem in receiving the code due to network or coverage issue. And one can catch up with the call and messages with the aid of his collaborator from the mobile shop. Usage of same device every time to log in makes the codes and password vulnerable. The landlines are obviously out of the league.

Authenticator application
This is a top secret entry key or seed based which is originated and saved in the server that lasts for 30 to 60 seconds and is mix up in a cryptographic algorithm with the date and time of generation. Until it matches with your entry timing it would be coming to you. Entering this will get you to your account safely. It just requires you to be online and makes it difficult for the intruder to guess the code sequence.

Login Verification
In this an individual key is produced and stored in server for future use. You just need to log in with this and a notice will be received on your mobile. Upon its approval, you will be given the site’s access to use your account. The one benefit is that one verification code qualifies for a number of accounts but if this gets leaked you can face a lot of loss.
Talking about these different channels to escort the account is well accepted but still it is not excluded from raising the customer’s anxieties in case his mobile or the access device is lost. And if in case he forgot to update his new number, and the code generated goes to the last number that might have been given to other once you changed it. In these cases, the third party autonomous companies can be a good aid unit to be contacted to get the immediate Gmail tech support and the service can help you get the account’s access at the earliest. You can call them on their number 24*7.