What is multi-factor authentication (MFA)?

digital security 2023 12 21 20 54 09 utc
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    From October 15, 2024, Microsoft 365 will introduce mandatory multi-factor authentication (MFA). But what exactly does this mean for you and your company? In this article, I’ll explain how MFA works, how you can securely share MFA codes with 1Password and why Olbricht IT is the ideal partner for this transition.

    What is multi-factor authentication (MFA)?

    MFA is an additional security measure that requires a second factor in addition to your password in order to log in to an account. This means that you not only have to enter your password, but also a code that is sent to your smartphone or generated via an authenticator app, for example. Even if an attacker knows your password, that alone is no longer enough to log into your account – the second factor makes all the difference!

    How does MFA work?

    MFA is based on the principle of “something you know” (your password) and “something you have” (for example, your smartphone). Here is a typical scenario:

    1. Login with password: Enter your Microsoft 365 password as usual.
    2. Enter the second factor: You will now be asked to enter a code that was sent to your smartphone or generated by an app such as Microsoft Authenticator, Google Authenticator or 1Password.
    3. Get access: Only after you have entered both will you be granted access to your account.

    This second factor makes it extremely difficult for hackers to break into your account, even if they steal your password.

    Share MFA codes securely with 1Password

    In teams or families, several people may need access to one account. However, sharing MFA codes via insecure channels such as email or messenger is a major risk. This is where 1Password comes into play. With 1Password, you can store MFA codes securely and encrypted in a shared vault that only authorized people can access.

    This is how it works:

    1. Set up 1Password and activate MFA for your account.
    2. Save the corresponding MFA codes in a shared vault in 1Password.
    3. Only share this safe with those who really need access to it.

    This method ensures that MFA codes do not fall into the wrong hands and that your accounts remain protected.

    Why Olbricht IT is the right partner for MFA

    Switching to MFA can sometimes be challenging – especially if you manage multiple users and accounts. This is where we come in: Olbricht IT supports you in implementing multi-factor authentication seamlessly and securely in your company. Our experts, such as Dominik Zumstrull, will accompany you every step of the way and ensure that the setup works smoothly.

    Whether it’s integration into Microsoft 365, managing MFA codes or using tools such as 1Password – we’re here to help. You can find out more about the upcoming Microsoft 365 update in our article on Olbricht IT.

    Contact us if you have any questions or need support. Together we will make sure that your data is always on the safe side!


    Summary:

    • MFA provides additional security through a second factor.
    • 1Password allows you to securely share MFA codes in an encrypted vault.
    • Olbricht IT is your partner for a secure and smooth changeover to MFA.

    Protect yourself from cyber attacks – and let’s take your IT security to the next level together!

    Dieser Beitrag ist auch verfügbar auf: Deutsch (German)

    Updated on 9. July 2025
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