Searching for the best multi-factor authentication tools? We’ve got you covered. Below, we’ll touch on some of the best MFA tools we’ve tested, as well as MFA methods and key factors you should consider when choosing an MFA tool to protect your network.

Here is our list of the best multi-factor authentication tools:

1. Manage Engine ADSelfService Plus – EDITOR’S CHOICE An interface that allows users to update their own account details in Active Directory and unlock the account. The package also implements single sign-on and multi-factor authentication. Runs on Windows. Access a 30-day free trial.
2. Auth0 This authentication and authorization service is a product of Okta and it can select from a range of authorization methods depending on the context of the login. A free plan is available.
3. Authy A two-factor authentication (2FA) system that provides free apps for iOS and Android for proof of identity but can also integrate with other apps.
4. Google Authenticator This mobile app-based 2FA tool has two big marketing advantages: it’s a respected brand and the fact that it is free to use.
5. Okta Get 2FA and SSO as part of either the customer identity management service or the workforce IAM system.
6. OneLogin A cloud-based identity and access management (IAM) package that offers single sign-on (SSO) and multi-factor authentication with AI-based user authenticity assessments.
7. LastPass A password manager for support teams with an account manager for users that provides a range of multi-factor authentication options.

Different Methods of Multi-Factor Authentication

• Biometrics Use unique physical characteristics to verify identity. Common methods include fingerprint scans, facial recognition, and retina scans. Biometrics provide a high level of security because these traits are hard to replicate. They are also convenient for users, eliminating the need to remember passwords. However, implementing biometrics can be costly due to specialized hardware. Privacy concerns also need to be addressed, as biometric data is sensitive.
• Hardware Tokens Generate one-time codes for authentication. These devices are usually small and portable, such as USB tokens or key fobs. Hardware tokens offer a high level of security because they require physical possession to authenticate. They are also resistant to phishing attacks since the codes change frequently. The downside is the cost of distributing and managing the tokens. Users can also lose or damage them, requiring replacements.
• One-Time Passwords (OTPs) Temporary codes sent to a user’s device, usually via SMS or email. They add an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification. OTPs are easy to implement and do not require additional hardware. However, they depend on the security of the user’s device and network. There is also a risk of interception if the communication channel is not secure. Despite these risks, OTPs remain a popular and accessible MFA method.
• Push Notifications Sent to a user’s smartphone to approve or deny login attempts. They offer convenience by allowing users to authenticate with a single tap. Push notifications can include additional information, like the login location, for better security. This method requires users to have a smartphone and internet access. It is generally more secure than SMS, as it is harder to intercept. However, push notifications depend on the availability and reliability of the mobile network.
• Smart Cards Store authentication data on a physical card, which users insert into a reader. They provide strong security by requiring both possession of the card and a PIN. Smart cards are commonly used in environments where security is paramount, such as government and corporate sectors. The initial setup can be costly, involving card issuance and reader installation. Users must carry their smart cards and protect them from loss or theft. Smart cards also require compatible hardware for authentication.
• Software Tokens Generate authentication codes on a user’s device through an app. These tokens provide flexibility and ease of use, as they do not require physical devices. Popular apps like Google Authenticator and Authy offer this functionality. Software tokens are generally secure but depend on the security of the user’s device. They are vulnerable to device loss or malware attacks. Despite this, software tokens are a cost-effective and widely adopted MFA method.

The Best Multi-Factor Authentication Tools

1. Manage Engine ADSelfService Plus – FREE TRIAL

ManageEngine ADSelfService Plus implements multi-factor authentication by providing a robust and versatile solution that supports various authentication methods. It offers adaptive MFA, which adjusts the required authentication factors based on contextual risk assessment, ensuring both security and user convenience. 

Key Features:

• Multi-Factor Authentication Support: Secure logins with 19 different authentication methods including biometrics, YubiKey, and Google Authenticator.
• Adaptive MFA: Context-based MFA that adapts to login conditions such as user location and device type.
• Endpoint MFA: Provides robust security for Windows, macOS, and Linux logins using multiple authentication factors.
• VPN MFA: Adds an extra layer of security to VPN logins, supporting providers like Fortinet and Cisco AnyConnect.
• Duo Security Integration: Incorporates Duo’s authentication methods, offering users additional verification steps through push notifications, SMS, and calls.

The platform integrates seamlessly with existing systems, supporting machine logins for Windows, macOS, and Linux, as well as VPN and enterprise application logins through single sign-on (SSO). Additionally, ADSelfService Plus includes features like self-service password management and conditional access, helping organizations adhere to regulatory standards such as NIST, PCI DSS, and HIPAA​ all under one platform.

You can register for a 30-day free trial.

2. Auth0

Auth0 offers extensive support for various authentication methods and adaptive MFA capabilities, ensuring robust security without compromising user experience. Its contextual MFA and integration with major identity providers offer flexibility and ease of use, making it ideal for securing applications with diverse user bases. 

Key Features:

• Adaptive MFA: Automatically prompts users for MFA based on risk, enhancing security without compromising user experience.
• Wide Range of Factors: Supports multiple authentication methods including push notifications, SMS, email, biometrics, and WebAuthn.
• Contextual MFA: Triggers MFA based on user actions, location, or device, providing additional security when accessing sensitive resources.
• Auth0 Guardian: Offers push notification-based authentication, simplifying the MFA process for users.
• Flexible Integration: Easily integrates with existing applications and supports various identity providers like Google, Microsoft, and Facebook.

Despite the initial setup complexity, Auth0’s ability to customize MFA policies based on user context significantly enhances security measures, making it a great multi-factor option for most organizations.

3. Authy

Authy supports multiple MFA methods and devices, allowing users to sync their 2FA tokens across various devices such as phones, tablets, and computers. This feature ensures that users can access their accounts even if one device is lost or unavailable. 

Key Features:

• Multi-Device Sync: Sync 2FA tokens across multiple devices, including smartphones, tablets, and desktops, to prevent lockout situations.
• Encrypted Backups: Provides local encryption of authentication tokens, ensuring they remain secure even in the event of a server breach.
• Cloud Backup: Enables secure cloud backups of 2FA tokens, allowing easy recovery if a device is lost or replaced.
• App Compatibility: Works with a wide range of apps and websites, offering an alternative to Google Authenticator and other 2FA apps.
• Biometric Support: Incorporates biometric authentication methods like TouchID for added security and convenience.

Authy provides encrypted cloud backups, enabling users to recover their tokens easily when switching to a new device without the need to reconfigure each account. Authy generates time-based one-time passwords (TOTPs) that work offline, ensuring that tokens are available even without internet access. This makes it a reliable option for securing accounts under various conditions. 

4. Google Authenticator

Google Authenticator helps organizations implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) by offering a simple, secure, and reliable way to protect user accounts. It generates time-based one-time passwords (TOTPs) that users enter in addition to their regular passwords. The app supports both HOTP and TOTP algorithms, which are widely used in the industry, ensuring compatibility with various services. One key feature is its ability to sync authentication codes across devices using a Google Account, allowing for easy recovery and transfer of tokens if a user changes their phone​. 

Key Features:

• Time-Based One-Time Passwords (TOTP): Generates constantly changing verification codes for enhanced security.
• Offline Functionality: Operates without an internet connection, ensuring you can access your accounts anytime.
• Cloud Backup: Recently introduced cloud backup feature allows users to sync their 2FA codes with their Google account for easy recovery and multi-device support.
• Integration with Google Services: Seamlessly integrates with Google suite of apps and other popular services.
• Cross-Platform Availability: Available on both Android and iOS devices, making it accessible to a wide user base.

This is a great option for smaller organizations but lacks many of the granular features and controls offered by other MFA platforms.

5. Okta

Okta offers a comprehensive and flexible solution that enhances security while maintaining user convenience. Okta Adaptive MFA uses a variety of modern authentication factors such as SMS, voice calls, push notifications, and biometric verification. This ensures that users have multiple options to verify their identity, improving security across different access points​

Key Features:

• Adaptive Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Adjusts security requirements based on user behavior, device, and location to provide tailored authentication experiences.
• Comprehensive Authentication Methods: Supports a wide range of authentication factors including biometrics, push notifications, SMS, email, and hardware tokens like YubiKey.
• Step-Up Authentication: Requires stronger authentication when accessing sensitive areas of an application, providing an extra layer of security for critical resources.
• Integration with Applications: Easily integrates with thousands of applications and services, offering seamless protection across your entire digital ecosystem.
• Contextual Access Management: Uses big data analytics and contextual signals to minimize user frustration while maximizing security.

6. OneLogin

OneLogin offers a robust and flexible solution tailored to enhance security while maintaining ease of use. OneLogin’s MFA supports a wide range of authentication factors, including one-time passwords delivered via SMS, email, or generated by apps like Google Authenticator. The platform also offers Smart Factor Authentication, which uses machine learning to analyze factors such as user location, device, and behavior to calculate a risk score. Based on this score, the system dynamically adjusts the authentication requirements, prompting for additional factors only when necessary. 

Key Features:

• Adaptive Authentication: Uses machine learning to evaluate the risk and context of each login attempt, adjusting security measures accordingly to provide a balanced user experience.
• Comprehensive MFA Options: Supports various authentication factors including OneLogin Protect, email, SMS, voice, WebAuthn for biometric authentication, and third-party options like Google Authenticator, Yubico, Duo Security, and RSA SecurID.
• OneLogin Protect: A dedicated app that simplifies MFA by providing push notifications for easy, one-tap verification, reducing the need for manual code entry.
• Biometric Integration: Supports biometric authentication methods such as fingerprint and facial recognition, enhancing security and user convenience.
• Desktop MFA: Provides MFA at the desktop and device level, securing Windows workstations and reducing security gaps across distributed infrastructures.

7. LastPass

LastPass provides a comprehensive and user-friendly MFA solution designed to enhance security without compromising ease of use. LastPass MFA uses adaptive authentication, which dynamically adjusts authentication requirements based on the risk profile of each login attempt. The system integrates seamlessly with various applications, including cloud, on-premises, and legacy systems, making it a versatile solution for diverse IT environments 

Key Features:

• Contextual Authentication: Verifies user identity based on environmental factors such as geolocation, IP address, and time of access.
• Hardware Key Support: Utilizes FIDO2-certified hardware keys like YubiKey and Feitian for an additional layer of security.
• Advanced MFA Add-On: Extends MFA to VPNs, workstations, on-premises apps, and identity providers for comprehensive security coverage.
• LastPass Authenticator: A dedicated app providing push notifications, SMS codes, and time-based passcodes for easy two-factor authentication.
• Passwordless Login: Allows users to access their accounts using biometrics or hardware tokens, eliminating the need for traditional passwords.