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Authentication Methods

SecTrail MFA offers over 13 different authentication methods, providing solutions suitable for every use case. Verification can be performed with any number of multiple factors.

Available Authentication Methods​

Primary Authentication​

LDAP/Active Directory​

Active Directory integration with corporate directory verification.

  • Use Case: Corporate users, first-factor authentication
  • Features: Group synchronization, attribute-based policies
  • Advantages: Utilizes existing infrastructure, central management

Local User​

User management using a local database.

  • Use Case: Non-LDAP environments
  • Features: User/group management, import/export
  • Advantages: Independent operation, easy setup

Second Factor Authentication​

SMS OTP​

Sending a one-time password via SMS.

  • Use Case: Universal, users with phone access
  • Features: Multiple SMS providers, international support
  • Advantages: Widespread usage, easy adaptation

Email OTP​

Sending an authentication code via email.

  • Use Case: Alternative second factor
  • Features: Custom mail servers, HTML templates
  • Advantages: Internet access is sufficient, cost-effective

Push Notification​

Instant approval via a mobile application.

  • Use Case: User-friendly, quick approval
  • Features: One-tap approval, biometric verification
  • Advantages: High security, enhanced user experience

TOTP (Soft OTP)​

Time-based token (SecTrail Authenticator compatible).

  • Use Case: Standard, offline use
  • Features: QR code enrollment, TOTP standard
  • Advantages: Does not require internet, universal compatibility

Advanced Methods​

WebAuthn​

Hardware security keys and platform authenticators.

  • Use Case: Highest security requirements
  • Features: Windows Hello, Touch ID support
  • Advantages: Phishing protection, hardware-based security

Approved OTP (Manager Approved)​

Authentication via a hierarchical approval system.

  • Use Case: Critical access, manager control
  • Features: Multi-level approval, email notifications
  • Advantages: Additional layer of control, auditability

QR Login​

Passwordless login with a QR code.

  • Use Case: Fast, mobile-first authentication
  • Features: Dynamic QR codes, mobile app integration
  • Advantages: Passwordless, user-friendly

Mail Auth​

Click-to-authenticate via email.

  • Use Case: Simple click-to-authenticate
  • Features: Time-limited links, secure tokens
  • Advantages: Easy to use, no extra software required

LDAP + OTP​

Combination of LDAP password and OTP in one step.

  • Use Case: Seamless two-factor security
  • Features: Single prompt, unified verification
  • Advantages: Improved user experience, one step

Custom HTTP​

OTP delivery via configurable notification rules (SMS or email based on user attributes).

  • Use Case: Flexible multi-channel OTP routing
  • Features: Rule-based delivery, attribute-driven routing, fallback channels
  • Advantages: No fixed channel — adapts to each user's available contact info

External Auth​

Integration with external authentication systems via HTTP.

  • Use Case: Using an organization's own authentication application as an MFA factor
  • Features: GET/POST/Custom request modes, immediate response / polling / callback waiting modes
  • Advantages: Integrates with any external system; user approves through the external channel

Configuration​

The necessary steps for each authentication method:

  1. Method Setup: Configure the verification service/provider
  2. Profile Creation: Define how the method will be used
  3. Policy Assignment: Apply to applications/users

Multi-Factor Chains​

SecTrail MFA allows you to combine multiple methods in authentication chains:

  • LDAP → SMS OTP: Traditional 2FA
  • LDAP → Push: Modern 2FA
  • LDAP → TOTP → WebAuthn: Triple-factor authentication
  • QR Login: Passwordless single step
Best Practice

For optimal security, use a combination of "something you know" (password) and "something you have" (phone, token).