What benefit does having multiple authentication methods offer?

Having multiple authentication methods enhances security through layered verification. This approach is often referred to as multi-factor authentication (MFA) or two-factor authentication (2FA), which requires users to provide more than one form of verification before granting access. By combining different types of authentication—such as something the user knows (like a password), something the user has (like a smartphone or smart card), or something the user is (like a fingerprint)—the system significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access.

If a single method of authentication is compromised, the layers of additional verification serve as a safeguard, making it much more challenging for attackers to gain entry. This layered approach helps protect sensitive data and systems, as it requires potential intruders to overcome multiple barriers rather than just one.

The other options may propose benefits, such as improved user experience or cost efficiency, but they do not address the primary advantage of enhanced security that comes from utilizing multiple authentication methods.