Maximizing Security and Efficiency: Implementing Multi-Factor Authentication in ServiceNow 

As organizations continue to digitize their operations and rely more heavily on cloud-based platforms, such as ServiceNow, the need for robust security measures designed to protect sensitive data and systems becomes increasingly important. One such measure that has recently gained widespread recognition for its effectiveness is multi-factor authentication (MFA).  

In this blog post, we will explore the importance of MFA and provide guidance on implementing it within ServiceNow to enhance security, streamline workflows, and improve the overall user experience. 

Understanding MFA & It’s Importance 

This year alone, we’ve seen a number of high-profile cyberattacks with compromised credentials at the core. These incidents have demonstrated the critical impact protecting credentials and identities has on an organization’s security – and that the traditional username/password authentication strategy is no longer enough. Enabling basic MFA is now a requirement for security and cyber resilience.  

Before delving into the specifics of MFA implementation in ServiceNow, it’s essential to understand the concept behind this important authentication strategy. At its core, MFA is a security mechanism that requires users to provide two or more forms of verification before gaining access to a system or application. These verification factors typically fall into three categories: something you know (e.g., a password), something you have (e.g., a smartphone or hardware token), and something you are (e.g., biometric data such as fingerprints or facial recognition).  

By requiring multiple factors of authentication, MFA significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access, even if one factor is compromised. 

Challenges of Implementing MFA in ServiceNow 

While the value of MFA is clear, implementing it within complex environments like ServiceNow can pose certain challenges – some of which are too daunting for organizations to take on. Rather than letting implementation obstacles prevent you from upgrading your authentication strategy, however, consider finding a ServiceNow partner to help you knock down barriers and make the leap to MFA.  

Navisite, a leading provider of innovative ServiceNow solutions, is one such partner. The Navisite team has helped countless organizations overcome implementation challenges to successfully take advantage of MFA in ServiceNow. Here are a just a few of the common hurdles organizations face and how Navisite helps overcome them: 

Complexity of User Directory Environments: Including multiple Active Directories, domains, and Identity Providers (IDPs). Through careful planning and coordination, Navisite is able to seamlessly integrate MFA with these disparate systems. 

User Experience and Adoption: Employee resistance to MFA, despite its importance in bolstering security. Change is hard, and many employees want to continue to use what they know: traditional password-based authentication strategies. To address this, Navisite implements a comprehensive training program to educate employees about the benefits of MFA and provide step-by-step guidance on how to use it effectively.  

SSO Integration: Integrating MFA with existing Single Sign-On (SSO). Navisite ensures a detailed understanding of the customer applications as well as SSO use, so MFA provides a seamless user experience across multiple platforms while maintaining robust security measures. 

Implementation Best Practices 

Navisite takes a methodical and detailed approach to removing obstacles associated with MFA in ServiceNow implementations and ensures each deployment is customized and set up for success.  

That said, there are some standard best practices Navisite recommends for any implementation project, including:  

• Assess Your Environment: Conduct a thorough assessment of your user directory environment, including Active Directories, domains, and IDPs, to identify any potential integration challenges. 

• Provide User Training and Communication: Invest in comprehensive training programs to educate employees about the importance of MFA and provide clear instructions on how to use it. 

• Choose the Right Authentication Methods: Offer a variety of authentication methods, such as SMS codes, authenticator apps, or hardware tokens, to accommodate different user preferences and security requirements. 

• Integrate with SSO: Ensure seamless integration with your existing SSO solution to provide a unified login experience across multiple platforms while maintaining robust security measures. 

• Monitor and Adjust: Regularly monitor MFA usage and effectiveness, and be prepared to adjust your implementation strategy as needed based on user feedback and evolving security threats. 

Benefits of MFA in ServiceNow 

Even though implementing MFA will take an upfront investment, the benefits are well worth the effort. By adding an extra layer of security beyond passwords, MFA significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access to sensitive data and systems. This helps organizations comply with industry regulations and security standards while enhancing customer trust and confidence with their own customers and partners.  

Moreover, MFA implementation in ServiceNow streamlines workflows and improves the overall user experience. With MFA, employees can securely access ServiceNow from anywhere, at any time, using a variety of authentication methods tailored to their preferences and organizational roadmap. 

Key Takeaways 

As technology continues to evolve, MFA is a critical security measure that organizations are increasingly adopting to stay ahead of emerging threats and safeguard their organization’s assets. While challenges may arise during implementation, following best practices and leveraging the expertise of a trusted partner can help ensure a successful rollout.  

By implementing MFA in ServiceNow, your organization will not only enhance security but also benefit from streamlined operations and an improved user experience. In short, MFA is a win for all stakeholders and your business.  

Don’t delay another day. Contact Navisite today to get started down the path to stronger authentication, security and cyber resilience.