Microsoft has today announced the general availability of its Windows Azure multi-factor authentication service.
Using the Windows Azure Multi-Factor authentication, organizations can add an extra layer of authentication to security their cloud and on-premises applications. On top of the traditional username and password based authentication, users can either authentication through a mobile app, phone call or text message.
Microsoft claims that the multi-factor authentication can be setup in minutes for applications that require an additional level of access security. Some of the applications for which multi-factor authentication can be used include Windows Azure, Office 365, Dynamics CRM, on-premises VPNs, Web applications and custom applications.
Organizations wanting to security their on-premises applications would be required to run a “Multi-Factor Authentication Server on your existing hardware or in a Windows Azure Virtual Machine”; those looking to secure their cloud based application would need to “enable Multi-Factor Authentication for Windows Azure AD identities”; and organization requiring this layered access security for their custom applications would need to “Use [Microsoft’s] SDK to build Multi-Factor Authentication phone call and text message authentication into your application’s sign-in or transaction processes.”
Microsoft is providing this service under two billing options: per user and per authentication. The company is also running a promotional offer until October 31 while the full prices will be applicable from November 1.
For more information visit Windows Azure blog here and pricing page here.
