CompTIA Network+ Practice Test

Token-based authentication requires which of the following?

1. A physical item for verification

2. An email confirmation

3. A username and password

4. A biometric scan

The correct answer is: A physical item for verification

Token-based authentication relies on the use of a physical item, such as a token or a device that generates a time-sensitive code, to provide an additional layer of security beyond just credentials. This physical item is used to verify the identity of a user trying to gain access to a system. The token might be a hardware device, like a key fob, or a software token that produces a one-time password. This method enhances security by ensuring that even if a hacker obtains the user's credentials, they would still need the physical token to successfully authenticate. The other options, while related to different authentication mechanisms, do not align with the specific requirements of token-based authentication. Email confirmation typically serves as a way to verify a user's email address or for one-time access links but does not provide ongoing authentication. Similarly, while a username and password are critical for many authentication types, they do not constitute token-based authentication by themselves. A biometric scan introduces another method of verification, relying on physical attributes like fingerprints or facial recognition, which does not involve token use.