Navigating the world of cybersecurity can be a daunting task. Your trusted IT provider is there to handle the heavy lifting, but why should you, as a small or mid-sized business owner, concern yourself with these details?
Our goal is to secure your business in a way that doesn’t disrupt your daily operations. However, there are certain safeguards, like Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), that require your involvement.
What is Multi-Factor Authentication?
In the past, you secured all of your accounts with a simple username and password. It was enough to authenticate that you are the real you, and keep criminals out But times have changed and criminals have gotten trickier.
Now, in order to keep your data safe, you need an additional layer of authentication on top of your username and password. This is referred to as multi-factor authentication. MFA offers an additional layer of protection beyond your password.
Now, here’s the good news – we’ve streamlined the process for you.
Once we implement the MFA requirement for all users, they’ll be guided through setting up a second layer of authentication. There are several options to choose from:
- Authenticator App (Our top choice to balance security and convenience)
- Text codes sent to your phone
- Phone call verification
- USB Key (for those without company-owned mobile devices or who prefer not to use personal devices)
Your users can select their preferred method and breeze through the setup process. It’s usually quick and hassle-free, but we’re here to assist if any roadblocks arise.
📱 The Authenticator App
This handy app, available on both Apple and Android devices, can be your cybersecurity ally. Simply download it, click “add an account,” and scan the QR code displayed on your computer screen. This pairs the app with your account.
👤 User Experience
Once enabled, your users can log into their Microsoft 365 accounts with an extra layer of security. They’ll receive prompts every time they log in from a new device, but their primary device will be remembered, reducing the frequency of prompts. It’s all about safeguarding new device logins.
“But how long does it take?” you might wonder.
Answering that question is as quick as using MFA with your Microsoft 365 account.
💪 The Advantages of Multi-Factor Authentication
Few cybersecurity measures have as profound an impact as MFA. Microsoft reports that a staggering 99.9% of account compromise attacks can be thwarted with MFA.
While it’s impossible to completely eliminate cyber threats, this layer makes it exceedingly difficult for bad actors to infiltrate your Microsoft 365 accounts. With more data shifting to the Microsoft platform than ever before, MFA isn’t just a suggestion – it’s a necessity.
Microsoft is also moving towards making MFA mandatory for all accounts, so it’s wise to get ahead of this change and start the process today.
If you want to learn more about how MFA can greatly improve your security, grab our free MFA business guide that covers all the details.
If you require assistance kickstarting this security enhancement for your business, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to guide you through the straightforward setup.