Authentication application 🟢 Protection

A authentication application at cyber security is a software tool designed to verify the identity of a user or device when accessing a protected system, service or resource. It enhances security by adding one or more layers of authentication beyond the traditional password.

📌 Main features

1. Generation of unique codes :
   • Product of single-use codes (OTP) or time codes (TOTP) valid for a limited time (e.g. 30 seconds). These codes are synchronised with an authentication server.
2. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) :
   • Combines several methods to verify identity:
     • What you know (password).
     • What you have (the application installed on a device).
     • What you are (biometrics, if integrated).
3. Common protocols :
   • TOTP (Time-based One-Time Password).
   • HOTP (HMAC-based One-Time Password): codes triggered by an event (e.g. user click).

👉 Examples of popular applications

• Google Authenticator
• Microsoft Authenticator
• 2FAS
• Authy
• Duo Mobile

✔ Benefits

• Reducing the risk of phishing/phishing temporary codes cannot be reused.
• Protection against brute-force attacks codes change frequently.
• SMS/email independence prevents interception via SIM swapping or mailbox hacking.

Use case :

• Validation of connection to sensitive accounts (bank, email, social networks).
• Access to professional infrastructures (VPNservers).