How to Choose Authentication That Secures Every Step Forward
For many small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), multi-factor authentication (MFA) seems like the gold standard in security. After all, it requires more than just a username and password, adding an extra layer of protection and reducing the risk of unauthorized access. But while MFA has certainly raised the bar, it’s not always enough to secure your entire business. Many MFA solutions protect only at login, leaving other critical areas exposed.
The good news is that enhancing your MFA is entirely achievable—and a step toward a zero-trust security model. By looking beyond static or one-time MFA, SMBs can implement a solution built on modern, flexible architecture that keeps them secure, resilient, and ready for future threats.
The Limitations of Traditional MFA
When SMBs think of MFA, they may picture options like SMS-based codes, email verification, one-time biometric authenticators, or apps like Google Authenticator. These methods are commonly used because they provide an added security layer without too much complexity. However, there are critical weaknesses in these traditional methods that modern cyber threats exploit:
Static and Predictable: Traditional MFA often involves a single, one-time verification at login. After that, there’s little to no session security monitoring. Once the initial check is completed, users typically stay logged in until they manually log out or their session times out.
Vulnerable to Evolving Attacks: Techniques such as session hijacking, phishing, and “man-in-the-middle” attacks are increasingly sophisticated, allowing hackers to intercept or bypass traditional MFA methods.
Disruptive to User Experience: Even though MFA increases security, it often disrupts workflows. Users may need to verify their identity multiple times a day, which can lead to frustration, decreased productivity, and a poor user experience.
Given these limitations, traditional MFA offers only a partial solution to the complex security challenges that modern businesses face. A more advanced approach to MFA—one that continuously verifies and adapts to the latest threats—is essential.
Given these limitations, traditional MFA offers only a partial solution to the complex security challenges that modern businesses face. A more advanced approach to MFA—one that continuously verifies and adapts to the latest threats—is essential.
Modernizing Your MFA for True Zero Trust
Advancing your MFA isn’t as complex as it sounds. Proximia’s adaptive MFA model is built to support zero-trust principles, making it both achievable and scalable. Here’s how Proximia’s advanced authentication provides the flexible, continuous security SMBs need:
Persistent Verification
Unlike traditional MFA, which verifies identity only once at login, Proximia employs continuous validation throughout each session. This ensures that users stay verified and safe as long as they’re accessing sensitive resources.
Adaptive Biometric Triggers
Proximia incorporates biometric triggers that go beyond a single scan of a fingerprint or face. Biometric triggers monitor user presence, verifying identity throughout each session without complicating the user experience.
Dynamic-Proximity
Proximia’s dynamic-proximity feature adds an extra layer of security by ensuring users are physically near their device. If the user steps away, the session automatically ends, preventing unauthorized access while keeping re-login smooth and efficient.
Mutual Trust Verification
Unlike one-time MFA that assumes trust after initial verification, Proximia’s mutual trust model continuously verifies both user and device. This dual verification process significantly reduces the likelihood of unauthorized access.
Take Your First Step Toward a Secure, Zero Trust Future
If your business is ready to move beyond traditional MFA, choosing a modern solution aligned with zero-trust principles is within reach. Here’s a quick guide to ensure you’re on the right path:
Is Our MFA Persistent or One-Time?
Persistent verification, like Proximia’s, ensures continuous security, reducing risks from session hijacking and unauthorized access.
Can Our MFA Solution Support a Zero Trust Model?
A zero-trust architecture requires ongoing verification. Proximia’s mutual trust feature supports this model, ensuring secure user identity and device authentication.
Does Our MFA Adapt to Modern Threats?
Traditional methods leave gaps. Proximia’s adaptive biometrics and dynamic-proximity meet the demands of today’s complex threat landscape.
What is Our Strategy for User Experience?
Legacy MFA often disrupts workflows. Proximia’s adaptive model minimizes disruptions, creating a seamless experience while maximizing security.
Modern Security Starts Here
For SMBs ready to elevate their security, moving beyond traditional MFA is achievable and can be the start of a strong, flexible zero-trust security strategy. Proximia’s advanced MFA solution provides adaptive security that’s easy to implement, simple to manage, and designed to evolve with your needs—so your team is protected now and ready for what’s next.
