
Instead of being plugged into a device, authentication for these kinds of tokens is entered through a small screen on the token itself.


Disconnected tokens, on the other hand, don’t need to be plugged into the device, making them the most common type of hard token. Connected tokens require a physical connection between the device and token, usually via USB or smart card. There are many versions of these, among them connected and disconnected tokens. Hard tokens are physical pieces of hardware that can resemble keys or fobs. Soft Token AuthenticationĪ soft token is a portable device that uses software to generate single-use login passcodes and PINs. Software tokens are duplicable and can be stored on all kinds of portable devices, including desktops, laptops, and mobile phones. TOTP is a temporary and secure password generated by an algorithm.

Types of Two-Factor Authentication Authenticator ApplicationĪuthenticator apps locally generate codes at a given frequency using a technology called Time-Based One Time Password (TOTP). Although this dual-factor login method is more secure than single-factor, it is still important to use it alongside a strong password to keep your data secure. If misunderstood, this login method can lull users into a false sense of security, resulting in weaker and more hackable passwords.
