• An authentication method that requires a user to present three distinct proofs of identity drawn from separate categories: something they know (e.g., a password), something they have (e.g., a hardware token), and something they are (e.g., a fingerprint). By combining all three factor types, 3FA provides stronger identity assurance than single- or two-factor authentication, reducing the risk of unauthorized access even when individual factors are compromised.

1. Related terms: Two-factor authentication · Multi-factor authentication · Bearer authentication · Bus factor
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