# Improving security using two-factor authentication (2FA)

## Improving security using two-factor authentication (2FA)=

MNX has added additional security features to the [portal](https://portal.mnx.io) to assist customers who must comply with stringent security requirements, such as those mandated by PCI-DSS.

### What is two-factor authentication? <a href="#what-is-two-factor-authentication" id="what-is-two-factor-authentication"></a>

Typically when we log into computer systems, whether it an email account or the MNX portal, we supply a username which identifies us and a password which authenticates us. This is "single-factor authentication" using a password, a series of characters that (hopefully) only we know.

Two-factor authentication (i.e. "2FA") seeks to improve security by adding a second type ("factor") of authentication. The first factor is still a traditional password. The most common second factor is a one-time password (OTP) generated by a physical device or by software on a smartphone.

The advantage of using a second factor of authentication is that if your password being compromised, that alone isn't sufficient information to gain access to your account.

### How do I enable two-factor authentication? <a href="#how-do-i-enable-two-factor-authentication" id="how-do-i-enable-two-factor-authentication"></a>

Login to the [MNX Portal](https://portal.mnx.io). Select your username from the top right corner and choose [**Two Factor**](https://portal.mnx.io/account/two_factor/). A popup will appear indicating if you have or have no turned on Two Factor Authentication. If it is disabled, **Enable** it.

From this page, follow the guided steps to complete the setup of two factor authentication.

At MNX, we recommends using either [Google Authenticator application](https://support.google.com/accounts/answer/1066447?hl=en), [Duo Mobile application](http://guide.duosecurity.com/iphone), or [Authy](https://authy.com).&#x20;

Once your preferred authenticator app is installed on your device, add a new account and scan the QR code into the app. Following this, the application should be registered..

### How do I disable two-factor authentication? <a href="#how-do-i-disable-two-factor-authentication" id="how-do-i-disable-two-factor-authentication"></a>

If you decide to revert to single-factor authentication, just go back to the menu under your account name and select **Two Factor**. From this page, there is an option to disable two factor authentication.

### How can I use two-factor authentication to protect my instances? <a href="#how-can-i-use-two-factor-authentication-to-protect-my-instances" id="how-can-i-use-two-factor-authentication-to-protect-my-instances"></a>

The MNX portal two-factor authentication only protects your MNX portal account, not your instances themselves.

If you wish to use two-factor authentication to protect your instances, we recommend looking at [Duo Security](https://duo.com).


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