Two-factor authentication (2FA) is a security process that requires two different forms of identification before granting access to an account. Typically, this involves something you know, like a password, and something you have, such as a smartphone or a security token. This extra layer of protection helps ensure that even if someone steals your password, they cannot access your account without the second factor. 2FA is commonly used by online services, including email providers and banking websites, to enhance security. Users may receive a text message or use an authentication app to generate a temporary code that must be entered along with their password. This significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access.