Snowflake Certification Practice Test

What is a primary benefit of Multi-factor Authentication?

1. It simplifies the login process

2. It enhances security by requiring additional verification

3. It is optional for all users

4. It eliminates passwords altogether

The correct answer is: It enhances security by requiring additional verification

A primary benefit of Multi-factor Authentication (MFA) lies in its capability to significantly enhance security by requiring additional verification beyond just a username and password. Traditional methods of authentication, such as entering a password alone, can be susceptible to breaches through phishing, password leaks, or brute force attacks. MFA mitigates these risks by introducing an extra layer of security, often involving something the user has (like a mobile device or security token) or something they are (like fingerprint recognition). Incorporating MFA into a security protocol ensures that even if a password is compromised, an unauthorized user would still need the additional factor to gain access to the account, which substantially lowers the likelihood of unauthorized access. This multi-layered approach is effective because it makes it much harder for attackers to succeed, as they would need to obtain multiple types of credentials. Other options suggest aspects that are not inherently true for MFA, such as simplifying login processes or eliminating the need for passwords, which does not accurately capture the primary function and intent of MFA. While MFA can improve user experience in some scenarios, its main focus is on strengthening security against potential threats.