2FA can be used in a variety of different computing environments and situations. You can use it for increasing authentication for accessing your network resources. You can also use it for reducing the likelihood of unauthorized access to your cloud computing environments and web-based systems. Further, two factor authentication can be applied to virtual private networks, extranets, and mobile devices, including cell phones, tablets, iPad, iPhones, and smart phones.

Control Access to Your VOIP Phone System by Using 2FA

A certificate authority has to follow the X509 standards, when creating digital certificates for organizations. These standards were established which specify which types of items must be contained in each and every digital certificate. The standards also tell CAs the correct placement of these items within each certificate. In addition, there is built-in flexibility allowed for optional items, which are not required, but which give organizations the ability to include them when desired.

There Can Be Exceptions to Using X509 Standards

There are different types of certificate formats which organizations can use to create digital certificates. However, in order for simplicity, as well as the ability to share a single certificate across multiple applications, organizations often choose to utilize following the X509 certificate standards. These standards are recognized internationally, which means you can share public certificates with your branch offices, as well as other organizations.

X509 Certificate Standards Are Built Into Your CA System

At the basis of most digital certificates are X509 certificate standards, which were established to make using and sharing of certificates simplified. This does not mean that the security of the certificates is compromised. Rather, it implies that the structure of a certificate following standardization will be laid out in a similar manner. Certain information within certificates can be opened and accessed. This information could include learning who created the certificate, when it was created, and when it expires.

The most common type of digital certificate in user today is built on using the X509 certificate standards. These standards make it much easier for organizations to share public certificates with other people and companies. Standardization allows for a single certificate to be compatible with multiple types of resources and systems. For example, you may have several types of modules, which work together within a single program. Instead of requiring one certificate for each one, may be able to use a single certificate for all of the modules.

It is possible for a person to have more than one digital certificate installed on their computer. The reason they can have multiple certificates is because there are both private and public versions created. The public versions are certificates which allow people to open and access different types of information which they have received or are attempting to access. Private versions are held by the organization or individual and are used to authenticate their public certificates.

Small Businesses Can Use a Third Party to Generate a Digital Certificate

In order to create and issue digital certificates and digital signatures, you need a certificate authority system. There are two traditional types of CA systems which organizations can choose from, which are managed CA systems, offered as a service, and CA software, which is installed onto your own server. There is also a third option available, called shared CA. Shared CA includes hosting outside your organization, or local installation, with some services being co-hosted.

A Managed Certificate Authority System Is a Cost-Effective Solution

Two factor authentication solutions are available for systems which require increased security. One option is called one time password (OTP) tokens. This is where a user is issued a password to log into the system, after filling out information like their name, department, email, and so on. This password can only be used once, and the next time they need access, they have to go through the entire process all over again.

Two Factor Authentication with Digital Certificates Is another Option

A root certificate is part of a PKI CA system and involves establishing trust between different types of certificates. There are different methods for establishing this trust. One method is direct and is common when these types of certificates come pre-installed, like when you purchase a new computer or software application. In order to save you time, and eliminate having to request certificates, you are able to trust the certificate because you know where it came from, meaning either the computer or software manufacturer.

2FA is a front end form of authentication which can prevent users from gaining access to resources. The basic process involves issuing a special digital certificate to the user’s computer. When accessing a resource, the user is prompted to first select the digital certificate. After the certificate has been authenticated, then the user is prompted for their user name and password. Without the digital certificate, the user will never be asked to enter in their log-in credentials.

Can Users Be Issued More Than One 2FA Digital Certificate?