Two-factor authentication using a smart card and PIN satisfies which factors?

Two-factor authentication using a smart card and PIN satisfies which factors?

• A. Something you have and something you know
• B. Something you have
• C. Something you know
• D. Something you are

Answer: (A)

This question tests how authentication factors work and why two-factor authentication uses two different categories. A smart card is a physical object you possess, which provides the “something you have” factor. A PIN is a secret you know, which provides the “something you know” factor. Using both together means identity is verified through two distinct types of credentials—possession and knowledge—fulfilling two-factor authentication. It’s not about biometrics (something you are), and it isn’t just one factor on its own.

This question tests how authentication factors work and why two-factor authentication uses two different categories. A smart card is a physical object you possess, which provides the “something you have” factor. A PIN is a secret you know, which provides the “something you know” factor. Using both together means identity is verified through two distinct types of credentials—possession and knowledge—fulfilling two-factor authentication. It’s not about biometrics (something you are), and it isn’t just one factor on its own.