2FA — Two-Factor Authentication
Definition: Login that requires something you know (password) plus something you have (code, key, device). 2FA blocks the vast majority of credential-stuffing and phishing attacks at near-zero cost.
Example
In engineering planning, you'll often hear something like: "Let's pull the latest 2FA numbers before we make a call" — shorthand for two-factor authentication.
When you'll hear it
2FA shows up most often in engineering planning, architecture reviews, and sprint retrospectives. When someone uses it, they're usually referring to two-factor authentication — and they expect the room to already know what that means.
FAQs
What does 2FA stand for?
2FA stands for Two-Factor Authentication.
What does 2FA mean in technology and engineering?
Login that requires something you know (password) plus something you have (code, key, device). 2FA blocks the vast majority of credential-stuffing and phishing attacks at near-zero cost.
Where will I hear 2FA used at work?
2FA comes up most often in engineering planning, architecture reviews, and sprint retrospectives. It's used as shorthand for two-factor authentication, so people assume you already know the term.