Identify one benefit of using multi-factor authentication.

Using multi-factor authentication (MFA) significantly enhances security by requiring multiple methods of verification before granting access to a system. This approach typically combines something the user knows (like a password), something the user has (like a smartphone or hardware token), and sometimes something the user is (biometric verification such as fingerprint or facial recognition).

MFA significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access because even if one factor, such as a password, is compromised, an attacker would still need to bypass the additional verification methods. This multi-layered security makes it much harder for malicious actors to gain access to sensitive information or systems, effectively creating more robust barriers against security threats.

In contrast, the other options highlight features that don't directly relate to the core benefits of multi-factor authentication. For example, single sign-on can simplify user experience, but it does not necessarily enhance security in the way that MFA does. Similarly, reducing the need for password complexity may carry some usability benefits, but it does not improve security directly. Lastly, faster access might be a side effect in some systems, but the primary goal of MFA is to ensure a higher security level by validating identity through multiple factors.