What access control method involves using multiple sources of authentication?

The concept of multifactor authentication revolves around the use of two or more distinct methods of verifying a user's identity before granting access to a system or resource. This approach enhances security by requiring users to provide multiple pieces of evidence that confirm their identity, which may include something they know (a password), something they have (a security token or mobile device), or something they are (biometric verification like a fingerprint or facial recognition).

By employing multiple sources of authentication, multifactor authentication significantly decreases the likelihood that unauthorized individuals can gain access to sensitive information or systems—even if one authentication factor is compromised. This method is increasingly important in the context of cloud security, where threats can include everything from phishing attacks to data breaches.

Single factor authentication typically relies on just one method, usually a password, which does not offer the same level of protection. Two-factor authentication is a subset of multifactor authentication, using two factors specifically, but multifactor authentication can use more than two, making it a broader and more comprehensive approach to access control. Access control lists help define permissions but do not involve the authentication method itself. Thus, the multifactor approach is the preferred method for robust security practices in managing access in cloud environments.