What is the primary purpose of multi-factor authentication?

The primary purpose of multi-factor authentication (MFA) is to enhance identity verification security. MFA requires users to present multiple forms of verification before they are granted access to a system or service. This typically involves combining something the user knows (like a password), something the user has (like a mobile device or smartcard), and sometimes something the user is (like a fingerprint or other biometric identifiers). This layered approach significantly reduces the likelihood of unauthorized access, as the chances of an attacker possessing all required factors are drastically lower than if only a single factor were being used.

While improving security is the main focus, enhancing identity verification through MFA also indirectly contributes to limiting access to authorized personnel. However, the direct goal is to fortify the process of confirming an individual's identity. The other considerations, such as reducing complexity or speeding up authentication, are not the primary objectives of MFA and may even be at odds with the introduction of additional verification steps, which may increase the complexity and time required for access.