What is Multi Factor Authentication?
Multi Factor Authentication (MFA) is an authentication strategy where a user must provide more than one type of identifying evidence (factor) in order to gain access to a resource. ATMs used to access bank accounts are a good example: you must insert your ATM card (something you have) and enter your PIN number (something you know) before you can access your account. In computing, MFA most frequently involves having a password (something you know) and a physical key or token (something you have).
Why use MFA?
Multi-factor authentication provides continued protection, even if a password has been compromised. With MFA, an attacker will not be able to impersonate you, even if they know your password, whether from hacking a database, or by phishing attack. Access will be denied because they will not have the physical token in their possession.
Integration of One-Time Passwords with User Credentials
For access to most Lab resources other than privileged server access, Berkeley Lab has implemented an MFA strategy requiring the use of your Berkeley Lab Identity credentials in conjunction with a one-time password (OTP). An OTP can be generated either by a software or hardware solution. Berkeley Lab IT has enabled the ability to use either. Software OTPs are generated using Google Authenticator, whereas hardware OTPs are generated from an authentication device known as a YubiKey. Berkeley Lab IT is the organization that issues the hardware authentication device.
MFA at Berkeley Lab
Berkeley Lab uses MFA for access to:
- Windows Login - MFA for Operations personnel logging into Windows Active Directory computers (sometimes known as StrongID)
- HRIS Login - MFA for HR personnel logging into Berkeley Lab HR databases and accessing Personally Identifiable Information (PII) data
- Web-based single sign on (SSO) - MFA for Single Sign-On providing Lab personnel access to Berkeley Lab resources like email, calendar, LETS, etc.
- Lawrencium HPC Cluster - MFA for HPCS Clusters
- Privileged Server Access - MFA for access to critical servers and services via gateways (sometimes known as L4 Gateways, or L4 StrongID)
How do I get started using MFA?
The full process is outlined here. Please note that Berkeley Lab employees must submit a help ticket to obtain either a Yubikey or Privileged L4 Key.
