Which type of Authentication includes physical items like tokens or smart cards?

The correct choice is recognized for describing authentication methods that involve the use of physical items, such as tokens or smart cards. This type of authentication, often referred to as two-factor or multi-factor authentication, leverages something the user possesses in conjunction with other verification factors. For example, a smart card can store authentication credentials and must be presented to gain access to systems or facilities, enhancing security by combining something physical with a knowledge factor, like a password.

This approach to authentication is effective because it requires more than just something a user knows (like a password) or is (biometric data). By incorporating a physical element, organizations can significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access, as an attacker would need to possess both the physical token and know the associated credentials. The integration of these physical items into authentication processes is a crucial aspect of a layered defense strategy in cybersecurity.