Network Defense Essentials (NDE) Practice Exam 2025 - Free Network Defense Practice Questions and Study Guide

The choice that includes a security token as one of the credentials is two-factor authentication. This technique enhances security by requiring two distinct forms of identification from users before granting access. Typically, this involves something the user knows (like a password) and something the user has (like a security token).

In two-factor authentication, the security token acts as an additional layer of protection beyond just a password, which addresses the common vulnerabilities associated with single-factor authentication. By requiring the presence of a physical security token—such as a hardware device, a smartphone app that generates time-sensitive codes, or an SMS message with a code—this method significantly enhances the security posture, making unauthorized access much more difficult for an attacker.

Other methods mentioned don't involve the same level of dual confirmation from the user. Single-factor authentication relies solely on one factor, usually something known, while multi-factor authentication includes three or more factors but could encompass a broader range than specifically two factors, and biometric authentication primarily relies on unique biological traits, such as fingerprints or facial recognition, rather than using a security token.