Network Defense Essentials (NDE) Practice Exam

What is the primary purpose of two-factor authentication?

1. To allow easy access to all users

2. To confirm user identity through multiple credentials

3. To track user activity within an organization

4. To encrypt sensitive data during transmission

The correct answer is: To confirm user identity through multiple credentials

The primary purpose of two-factor authentication (2FA) is to confirm user identity through multiple credentials. This method enhances security by requiring two different forms of verification before granting access to an account or system. Typically, these two factors include something the user knows (like a password) and something the user has (such as a smartphone or hardware token that generates a one-time code). By implementing two distinct forms of authentication, 2FA significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access, as even if one credential is compromised, an additional factor is still required for successful authentication. This approach aligns with security best practices by increasing the difficulty for potential intruders to access sensitive information, thereby strengthening the overall security posture of the organization.