Single-Factor Authentication
Single-factor authentication is an authentication method based on only one category of proof, most often a password or PIN.
- Acronym
- SFA
- Synonym
- SFA
Definition
Single-factor authentication is an authentication method based on only one factor, most commonly a password or PIN. While simple to deploy and user-friendly in the short term, SFA generally provides limited resistance to phishing, credential stuffing, brute force, replay, and social engineering attacks. It may still be acceptable for low-risk use cases, but it is increasingly insufficient for enterprise IAM, privileged access, remote access, and regulated environments.
Why it matters
Single-factor authentication is still widespread, but it is often misaligned with modern enterprise threat models.
The Ariovis perspective
Authentication strength should match the risk of the journey rather than impose the same friction everywhere. Ariovis looks for a balance between security, maintainability and user experience.
Related services
Common pitfalls
- Many organizations overestimate the protection provided by password complexity and underestimate the structural weakness of relying on one factor only.
Standards and protocols
- NIST SP 800-63B
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