Secure authentication: passwords, MFA and beyond
How users prove who they are is one of the most security-sensitive parts of any product. Done well, it quietly protects everyone; done badly, it's the cause of most breaches. Here's what good authentication looks like.
Passwords, done properly
If you store passwords, never store them as plain text — hash them with a strong, modern algorithm so that even a stolen database doesn't reveal them. Encourage (don't frustrate) strong passwords, and check new ones against known-breached lists. Better still, reduce reliance on passwords altogether.
Add a second factor
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) — a code from an app, a security key, or similar — is one of the single most effective security measures there is. Even if a password leaks, MFA stops most account takeovers. Offer it, and require it for sensitive accounts.
Use proven building blocks
- Don't roll your own. Use established, well-audited libraries and standards for login and sessions.
- Consider social or passwordless login. "Sign in with…" and magic links reduce passwords entirely.
- Protect sessions. Secure tokens, sensible expiry, and the ability to log out everywhere.
- Rate-limit and monitor. Slow down brute-force attempts and watch for suspicious activity.
Most account breaches exploit weak or reused passwords — MFA closes that door.
- Never store plain-text passwords — hash them with a strong algorithm.
- Offer (and require, where it matters) multi-factor authentication.
- Use proven libraries and standards; never roll your own crypto.
Frequently asked questions
Is multi-factor authentication really necessary?
It's one of the highest-impact security measures available. It stops the large majority of account-takeover attacks even when a password is compromised.
Should I build login myself?
Generally no. Use established authentication libraries or providers — they handle the security details correctly so you don't introduce subtle, dangerous bugs.
What is passwordless login?
Signing in without a password — via a magic link, a code, or a passkey. It removes the weakest link (passwords) entirely and is increasingly popular.
ZIVARA builds secure authentication into every product, using proven standards. Let's talk security. Related: application security basics.