What is a key benefit of using multifactor authentication?

The key benefit of using multifactor authentication is that it enhances security by combining different authentication methods. Multifactor authentication (MFA) increases the difficulty for unauthorized users to gain access to an account or system because it requires two or more verification factors from different categories. These categories may include something the user knows (like a password), something the user has (like a smartphone or security token), or something the user is (like a fingerprint or other biometric data). This layered approach significantly strengthens security because even if one factor, such as a password, is compromised, the attacker would still need to overcome the additional authentication factors, making unauthorized access much less likely.

The other choices do not accurately reflect the advantages of multifactor authentication. Simply requiring a password does not enhance security; instead, it solely relies on one form of authentication. Elimination of all password requirements isn't a characteristic of multifactor authentication; in fact, MFA often still requires a password as one of its factors. Lastly, while MFA can streamline and clarify the authentication process in some contexts, its primary benefit is the heightened security it provides, making the assertion that it simplifies the process less relevant.