Single Factor Authentication
Single Factor Authentication (SFA) is a security mechanism that requires users to provide only one type of credential, typically a password or PIN, to verify their identity and gain access to a system or resource. It is the simplest form of authentication, relying on something the user knows, and is widely used in basic login scenarios. However, it is considered less secure than multi-factor methods due to its vulnerability to attacks like phishing, brute force, or credential theft.
Developers should learn about SFA to understand foundational security principles and implement basic access control in low-risk applications, such as internal tools or non-sensitive user accounts. It is appropriate when security requirements are minimal, user convenience is prioritized, or as a stepping stone to more advanced authentication systems. Knowledge of SFA is essential for comparing and upgrading to stronger methods like multi-factor authentication in high-security contexts.