Which authentication method uses a combination of something you know and something you have?

Multifactor Authentication (MFA) is the method that uses a combination of something you know (such as a password or PIN) and something you have (like a physical token, smartphone, or smart card). This approach enhances security by requiring two or more independent credentials for verification. The idea behind MFA is that even if one factor (like the password) is compromised, the presence of the second factor (the physical token) helps protect against unauthorized access.

The emphasis on both types of authentication – something you know and something you have – makes it significantly harder for malicious actors to gain access, as they would need both elements to successfully authenticate. This layered security approach is integral to modern practices in identity and access management, underscoring the importance of not relying solely on a single method of authentication for securing sensitive information.