
Virtual Private Network allows you to connect one or more computers to a private network most of the time via the internet. It allows you to surf safely on a public wifi network, and also helps prevent Man-In-The-Middle attacks. Even though this approach is not new, in recent years this has become more relevant mainly due to the new trends in the way companies work & more people want a greater level of online privacy.

VPN tunneling ensures secure communication between systems. As the connection is encrypted, no one along the VPN tunnel can intercept, monitor, or alter your communications.

 
### What is a secure VPN? {#what-is-a-secure-vpn}

A **secure VPN**offers several advantages, particularly for those who respect their online privacy and wish to limit their digital exposure. Whether utilized by mainstream enterprises or cyber-criminal activities, a secure VPN connection does not compromise on the crucial criteria that keep invasive use of technology at bay. The increase in Virtual Private Network service providers reflects the market’s explosive growth. With online transactions and a virtual lifestyle becoming more common these days, a reliable VPN service is an important part of our digital era.

Secure VPN can **hide your IP address** and **encrypt your browsing history**, and it’s increasingly being used to avoid government surveillance. In some scenarios, VPNs may not be enough to keep you safe.

A secure VPN connection must employ the strongest encryption quality possible to be really safe. It must have a variety of security methods to secure your data’s confidentiality. These protocols ensure that unauthorized parties cannot get access to the connection and that the data you send and receive is secure. If you’re considering several secure VPNs, be sure the one you pick protects you against IP address leaks. It’s also a good indicator if it features an **Internet kill-switch**, which stops specific apps immediately if your connection goes down. This automatic function can help you avoid data leaks that could expose sensitive information.

**Furthermore, if the VPN app of your choice offers two-factor authentication, then you may have found a winner.**

### Benefits of a Secure VPN and why do you need one? {#benefits-of-a-secure-vpn-and-why-do-you-need-one}

Using a Virtual Private Network has multiple benefits, and this is why everyone should use one. Here are a few of the most important ones:

**1. Security:**
Because a secure VPN encrypts your connection, your data flow is protected even if the network you connect to has insufficient security. A secure VPN disables harmful websites, malware, trackers, and adverts, so you won’t infect your device even if you take a wrong turn online.

**2. Privacy:**
When you browse the internet, you leave a trail of your device type, location, IP address, and browsing history. You can restore your privacy with the aid of a private VPN. It encrypts your internet connection so that no one can listen in on the websites you view or the information you share. It also masks your IP address and location, making it impossible for snoopers to find you.

**3. Prevent ISP tracking:**
Your internet service provider (ISP) monitors your online behavior and may share this information with advertising, government agencies, and other third parties without your knowledge or agreement. They do this for a variety of reasons, not all of which are malicious, but it is still an invasion of privacy.

ISP tracking may be blocked using a secure VPN connection, preventing them from accessing your passwords, social media data, or physical location.

**4. Working remotely:**
If you work in any type of corporate office, you will almost certainly be required to connect to an internal or local area network (LAN). When a large number of individuals, whose jobs allow it, are working from home. A secure virtual private network allows you to connect to the workplace network and work remotely. You have access to any private material that would normally be available exclusively in the office. While traveling to and from your house, the data is encrypted.

**5. Avoid Data Throttling:**
When you’ve used up all of your allotted data and your internet service provider (ISP) decides to slow down your connection, this is known as data throttling. If you use a secure VPN, you’ll quickly discover that one of the benefits of a virtual network is the ability to evade data caps, especially since neither your ISP can see how much data you use. This might be especially beneficial for employees who must utilize data plans on their mobile devices to access the internet while on the road.

**6. Preventing pricing discrimination:**
Price discrimination is the practice of charging varying prices for the same goods or service depending on your location, how you regularly use and purchase on the platform, and your online purchasing habits. Offline, price discrimination has long existed, but automated algorithms now allow for dynamic pricing online as well. A secure VPN can protect you from being duped and being charged more because of your internet surfing and shopping habits, as well as assumptions about your socioeconomic standing based on your IP address.

### What are its vulnerabilities? {#what-are-its-vulnerabilities}

It is said that no software is immune to vulnerabilities. Ordinarily when you connect to any website from your computer then that website can see your IP address but when you are using a virtual private server, your data is not directly sent to the website you are visiting instead your IP address is first sent to one of the VPN servers. So the website you are visiting does not see your IP address, they see the IP address of the VPN server. It means no one sees your IP address, not your internet service provider, the government, or hackers so you become untraceable. No one can trace back to you. In short, the whole idea of achieving the web security of you and your organization using a VPN is keeping your IP address hidden.

Though this was not good news such vulnerabilities occur every time in the cyber world. What’s important is how we identify and tackle such things.

**Some VPN providers embrace your data**

While it is also important that VPN provider should maintain full transparency because it is found that some VPN providers also hold onto your data. Most of the VPN providers claim that they do not maintain a log of your online session neither they maintain the logs for your IP addresses or servers used, websites visited or files downloaded but “no log” claim differ from one VPN provider to another.

**There’s malware detected in certain VPN mobile apps**

One study also found that some VPN mobile apps do have malware in it. This study was conducted by the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization and they found that 38% of VPN android apps were infected by some type of malware.
Also, some mobile apps requested access to sensitive personal data such as account details and messaging.

**Cloud VPN is more vulnerable**

Today cloud technologies have given a huge amount of collaboration and convenience to the organizations but it has also brought security challenges for them. While using Cloud VPN solutions companies exposes themselves and due to this, any hacker can gain access to their private data.

**Credentials phishing**

Credentials phishing is one rapidly growing attack in the cyber world, where a hacker steals credentials such as userID and password. Hacker displays himself as an authority and by the means of email or any communication channel he gets to know your credentials. If a hacker gets the credentials he can use it to get the sensitive info out.

### How Multi-factor Authentication helps to secure VPN? {#how-multi-factor-authentication-helps-to-secure-vpn}

Multi-factor authentication validates user identity with passwords and an additional layer of security (e.g. OTP over SMS/Email). That is why it is called multi-factor authentication. This provides greater identity assurance for a user who is accessing any resource via VPN. So with multi-factor enabled on your system, it prevents the hacker from accessing the resources even if they know your username and password. As you have an additional layer of authentication, a hacker has to pass that layer which is not possible. However, we need to understand that not all MFA are the same and provide greater assurance of security. Many MFA solutions are slow or complicated and therefore inefficient.

miniOrange can be of great value here by providing [Two-Factor Authentication](https://www.miniorange.com/products/two-factor-authentication-(2fa)) on top of VPN security. This secures the access to protected resources instead of relying on only the VPN username/password.

miniOrange uses the [Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service (RADIUS)](https://www.miniorange.com/blog/radius-server-authentication/) protocol. Communication between the client and RADIUS server is authenticated and a shared secret is used, which is never sent over the network.

![Radius Server Authentication Flow](/blog/assets/2023/radius-server-flow.webp)

Here the RADIUS client is nothing but the VPN. If you take a look at the steps then you can get an idea of how Two-Factor authentication is used with a VPN.

- The user enters the login credentials to the VPN.
- RADIUS Clients send the login details to the miniOrange RADIUS server.
- User details are checked with Active Directory.
- When the AD finds the user it sends the response to the miniOrange RADIUS server. First-factor authentication is completed here.
- A challenge response is sent to RADIUS clients for second Factor Authentication.
- RADIUS client prompts the user with a 2FA challenge. (e.g.OTP over SMS/Email).
- When the user validates himself with 2FA. The authentication response is sent to the miniOrange RADIUS server.
- After checking the response, the RADIUS server grants access to the user.


This way miniOrange ensures that no unauthorized person gets access to the VPN. miniOrange acts as a RADIUS server that takes the username/password from the user and validates it with Active Directory (AD). After checking with the AD it prompts the user for Two-Factor authentication. If the user successfully completes the 2FA then the server grants the access.

### Conclusion {#conclusion}

These days organizations have become fully aware of the use of Multi-Factor Authentication for an extra layer of security along with VPN. Unauthorized access to your VPN is likely to cause more harm to the business. Multi-factor authentication plays a key role in securing your network, data & resources.

miniOrange has succeeded in dealing with Identity and access management problems and we ensure you have safe and secure access to your resources. Our 2-FA authentication adds a 2nd layer of security when you are gaining access to protected resources through a Virtual Private Network.

### Further Reading {#further-reading}

- [Multi-Factor Authentication](https://blog.miniorange.com/what-is-multi-factor-authentication-mfa/)
- [VPN Security](https://blog.miniorange.com/vpn-security-how-2fa-helps-to-secure-your-vpn/)
- [2FA solution for VPN](https://www.miniorange.com/iam/solutions/vpn-mfa-multi-factor-authentication)

A secure VPN offers several advantages for those who want online privacy and wish to limit their digital exposure. miniOrange can provide MFA on top of VPN for more security.

Secure VPN with Multi-Factor Authentication


Sensitive data in a company's infrastructure, if left vulnerable by securing with just traditional usernames and passwords, is prone to cyber attacks. This calls for the need for a more secure method of authentication. What if you have many methods to choose from in order to make it more challenging for a user to login to their accounts? This is where multiple authentication methods from multi-factor authentication (MFA) come into play.

In this article, we will learn about MFA, its working, authentication methods, use cases, benefits, miniOrange MFA, and future trends.


### What is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) in Cybersecurity? {#what-is-mfa}

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is a security method requiring multiple credentials to verify a user's identity. It enhances security, protects against cyber threats, aids regulatory compliance, and can be user-friendly.  

  
MFA adds an extra authentication layer to access resources, requiring users to authenticate with two or more factors beyond usernames and passwords. These factors can include OTP over SMS/email, push notifications, or Google/Microsoft authenticator.  



### Why Use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)? {#why-use-mfa}

Users often make it easier for hackers by choosing weak passwords, reusing passwords across multiple applications, storing them insecurely, and not updating them regularly. These practices may help users remember their credentials but also make it easier for hackers to gain access.  

  

The 2019 Data Breach Investigations Report found that 81% of account breaches were due to leaked or weak passwords (e.g., "password," "admin").  

- 92% of organizations have credentials for sale on the Dark Web.
- 81% of data breaches are the result of weak or stolen passwords.
- 90% of passwords can be cracked in less than six hours.

These factors underscore the importance of using Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). By combining your username and password with MFA, your access becomes more secure.  

In our work with various organizations, we've seen the devastating impact of security breaches caused by weak authentication methods. For example, a major healthcare provider we consulted suffered a significant data breach due to compromised passwords, resulting in millions of dollars in damages and loss of patient trust. Implementing MFA could have prevented this incident.


### How Does MFA Work? {#how-does-mfa-work}

Drawing from our experience in implementing MFA systems for Fortune 500 companies, we can attest to the effectiveness of this layered approach. For example, when a user attempts to access a protected resource:  

1. They enter their username and password (first factor).
2. The system then prompts for a second factor, such as a fingerprint scan or a one-time code sent to their smartphone.
3. Only after successfully providing both factors is access granted.  


As the user attempts to gain access to a specific resource, they are prompted with multiple authentication factors instead of only one. The user credentials are then verified by a core identity provider (IdP) or directory services platform, and the user gains access to the requested resource. Most MFA systems use a one-time passcode (OTP) for each login attempt. miniOrange offers 15+ MFA methods, which we will cover later in this blog.  

 

### Multi-Factor Authentication Methods {#mfa-methods}

Multi-Factor Authentication takes the help of these factors to authenticate a particular individual.    

1. **Knowledge factor** is something that a user remembers, like "first password," "first school name," "a pin," etc.
2. **Possession factor** is something the user has, such as a mobile device, smartphone app, or security token to approve authentication requests.
3. **Inherence factor**, mainly referred to as a biometric factor, is something different in the user's physical self. These could also be personal attributes like fingerprint, retina, or voice.
4. **Location factor** usually denotes the location from which an authentication attempt is being made. Location-based MFA methods can limit user access when a user breaks out from the given location.
5. **The time factor** restricts user authentication to a specific time panel in which logging on is granted and restricts access to the system outside of that window. In simpler terms, we called it time-based OTP (TOTP). Mobile apps like Microsoft Authenticator, Google Authenticator, and miniOrange Authenticator provide a key code that's time-dependent up to limited seconds.  

In our work with financial institutions, we've found that a combination of possession and inherence factors provides the highest level of security.


### Multi-Factor Authentication vs. Two-Factor Authentication {#mfa-vs-2fa}
  

|Aspect   |  MFA  |  2FA  |
|---------|-------|-------|
|Definition| An authentication method that requires two or more factors of authentication. | An authentication method that requires exactly two factors of authentication. |
| Subset | MFA is a broader term that includes 2FA as a subset. | 2FA is a specific type of MFA that uses exactly two factors. |
| Security | MFA is considered to be more secure because it uses multiple layers of authentication. |2FA can still be vulnerable if one of the factors is compromised. However, it’s still a highly secure protocol. |
| Ease of Use | MFA might be more complex to implement and use due to the involvement of more than two factors. | [2FA](https://www.miniorange.com/products/two-factor-authentication-(2fa)) is often easier to implement and use as it involves only two factors. |
| Examples | Entering a password (something you know), verifying a code sent to your smartphone (something you have), and scanning your fingerprint (something you are). | Entering a password and then confirming your identity through a code sent to your mobile phone.|  

  


### Authentication Challenges for the User in Multi-factor Authentication {#authentication-challenges-for-user-in-mfa}

Users who have to remember multiple passwords will find it difficult to use MFA if they add security features. MFA aims to simplify MFA for users. These are some main approaches to simplifying MFA.  

**[Adaptive MFA](https://www.miniorange.com/products/adaptive-multi-factor-authentication-mfa)**

This applies business rules and policies to user-based elements such as location or device. A corporate VPN may know that a user can sign in from their home, seeing their location and assessing the risk of misuse or compromise. An employee accessing the VPN through a coffee shop can trigger the system, and you will be required to enter MFA credentials.  

  
**Push Notification**

This method allows the security system to issue a third, single-use ID code to the user's smartphone. To access a secure system, users can enter their user ID or password. A security system will then issue a third single-use code to their mobile devices. To gain access, users must enter the code into the system. Push authentication makes MFA easier by giving users the third code. This eliminates the need for them to remember it.  


### Multi-Factor Authentication Use Cases {#mfa-usecases}


**MFA over VPN**

A global organization with a distributed workforce implements [multi-factor Authentication (MFA) over its VPN](https://www.miniorange.com/iam/solutions/vpn-mfa-multi-factor-authentication) to enhance security.This implementation not only strengthens security but also improves operational efficiency and regulatory compliance. It's a robust solution for securing remote network access, making it a worthwhile investment for companies looking to enhance their VPN security.  

miniOrange MFA over VPN is a robust solution for securing remote network access. It supports a range of VPNs, including Cisco, Palo Alto, Fortinet, SonicWall, and OpenVPN, making it a worthwhile investment for companies looking to enhance their VPN security.  

&nbsp;  

**MFA for Windows**

Implementing Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) for Windows enhances security for logon and [Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP)]sessions. The process involves configuring the RADIUS client/server in miniOrange, setting up the Windows VPN client, and enabling 2FA for end users, with options like Google Authenticator.  

The Windows MFA solution integrates with Active Directory/LDAP for identity management and offers customizable MFA policies based on roles, groups, or applications. It supports device-based and cross-domain MFA, allowing logins for accounts on any trusted domain or local Windows accounts. Offline MFA ensures security even when disconnected from the internet using soft tokens, authenticator apps, and backup codes.  

&nbsp;  


**MFA for Web Apps**

Our MFA can be enabled for any of your [web apps](https://faq.miniorange.com/knowledgebase/how-to-enable-2fa-mfa-for-a-particular-app/) anywhere on the internet to ensure a secure and efficient way of accessing your critical resources. miniOrange offers MFA for a wide range of web applications running on cloud, on-premise servers, or in hybrid environments.

Enhances MFA security across cloud (SAAS), on-premises, and in-house apps, supporting protocols like SAML, Radius, OpenID, and JWT. Integrate MFA seamlessly with in-house web apps.  

&nbsp; 


**MFA for Network Devices**  

Implement MFA security for firewalls, switches, routers, and other [network devices](https://www.miniorange.com/iam/solutions/secure-network-devices)with the miniOrange MFA solution that extends beyond VPNs and fortifies your entire corporate network.  

Leverage Radius & TACACS protocols with miniOrange to encrypt switches and routers based on your network's hardware capabilities and add Multi-Factor Authentication to enhance the security posture. Bonus point is that miniOrange MFA is deployed without requiring any external proxy.  

&nbsp;  

**MFA for Office 365**

Microsoft provides MFA only via their default application with limited MFA methods, and you cannot configure any additional MFA authentication method. In some cases, you need to spend an enormous amount for licensing and user differentiation, and if you need to activate or deactivate for the particular user you have. However, with miniOrange [MFA for Office 365](https://www.miniorange.com/two-factor-authentication-(2fa)-for-office-365) it is possible to add more MFA methods.  

miniOrange MFA integration for Microsoft Applications allows you to use [Yubikey](https://www.miniorange.in/iam/content-library/admin-docs/configure-multi-factor-authentication#:~:text=a%202FA%20method.-,YubiKey%20Hardware%20Token,-%22YubiKey%20hardware%20Token) (or the other method from 15+ available MFA methods) as the multi-factor to login into your Office 365 or any of your Microsoft Applications.  



### Benefits of MFA {#benefits-of-mfa}
Implementing MFA isn't just about security—it's a strategic move that safeguards your company's most valuable digital assets. Beyond thwarting cyber threats, MFA demonstrates a commitment to data integrity that can bolster client trust and give you a competitive edge as we enter a security-conscious market.  

1. **Compliance**: [Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)](https://www.miniorange.com/products/multi-factor-authentication-mfa) helps organizations meet regulatory requirements and industry standards. By implementing MFA, companies can ensure they are compliant with data protection laws and regulations, reducing the risk of legal penalties, meeting the requirements for cybersecurity insurance, and enhancing their reputation.
2. **Enhanced Security**: Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) decreases the probability that an attacker can mimic a user and may gain access to the system. miniOrange MFA solution allows users to log in using username and OTP, thus preventing the necessity to enter the password.
3. **More Productivity and Flexibility**: Organizations are accepting mobility because it helps in increasing productivity. Employees can securely login and access corporate applications and resources from virtually any device and from any location, without putting the corporate network at risk.
4. **Reduced Operating Costs**: Implementing MFA reduces the probability of data breaches, resulting in reduced investment.  

In a recent case study involving a mid-sized technology firm, our implementation of MFA resulted in:  

- 99.9% reduction in account compromise incidents
- 30% decrease in IT support calls related to account lockouts
- $500,000 annual savings in potential breach-related costs  

These results underscore the tangible benefits of MFA in real-world scenarios.


### miniOrange MFA Solutions {#miniorange-mfa-solutions}

#### **Key Features of [miniOrange MFA Solutions](https://www.miniorange.com/iam/solutions/multi-factor-authentication-mfa-solutions):**  

#### **Zero Trust Authentication**
The Zero Trust approach within 2FA helps to create an effective environment, policies, and infrastructure to minimize data breaches.

#### **Support for Cloud and On-premise**
Flexible deployment options, like on-premise and cloud. Seamlessly integrates into your organization's existing environment.

#### **Offline Authentication**
Allow users to log in even if there is no internet available by using offline 2FA methods such as soft tokens and security questions.

#### **Passwordless Authentication**
2FA login for users using just username and OTP/TOTP, thus preventing the need to enter password.

#### **Role-based 2FA**
Admin can enable or disable 2FA for a specific user role and for any particular application.

#### **User Self Enrollment**
It offers inline registration of users, so you'll simply activate and setup 2FA, and you're ready.

#### **Custom SMS/EMAIL Gateway & Templates**
Templates for SMS and email that are sent to users containing OTPs for authentication are also completely customizable.

#### **Reporting and Auditing**
Stay informed on all user logins. Get complete reports on all user activities in a single dashboard: session management, user monitoring, user login audit, user & admin activity reports, etc.



### Future Ready: MFA Trends to Mitigate Automated Cyberattacks {#future-ready}

The more the data, the more is the need to protect it. This implies that cybersecurity is a journey, not a destination. And at the heart of this journey is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). It's evolving, becoming smarter and more intuitive. Imagine logging in with just your fingerprint, facial recognition, or even your typing speed!  

But it's not just about convenience. MFA is a powerful shield against cyber threats. In fact, it blocks 99.9% of automated attacks. That's why, whether you're a start-up or a big corporation, MFA is a must-have for your security toolkit.  

And when it comes to MFA, miniOrange is your trusted companion. We're here to guide you through the increasing threats in cybersecurity, ensuring your digital identity is always protected. With miniOrange, you're not just safe; you're future-ready. [Connect with us](https://www.miniorange.com/products/multi-factor-authentication-mfa#request-demo) for your MFA-related queries and use cases today.  

&nbsp;  


### Further Reading {#further-reading} 

- [What is Adaptive Authentication in IAM?](https://www.miniorange.com/products/adaptive-multi-factor-authentication-mfa)
- [What are the benefits of Passwordless Authentication?](https://www.miniorange.com/iam/solutions/passwordless-authentication)
- [Drupal Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)](https://plugins.miniorange.com/drupal-two-factor-authentication-2fa)
- [Securing VPN with Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)](https://www.miniorange.com/iam/solutions/vpn-mfa-multi-factor-authentication)

Explore multi-factor authentication (MFA) methods, their concept, and their use cases. Learn about miniOrange multi-factor authentication.

Secure VPN with Multi-Factor Authentication

What is Multi-factor Authentication for Improved Identity Security?