Hello folks,
In my previous article, we unpacked why Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) is no longer optional, and how miniOrange 2FA helps protect sensitive data across your Atlassian ecosystem while ticking all the right compliance boxes.
In this one, let’s take a closer look at one of the simplest and most popular methods: OTP via SMS & Email - the “classic method” of 2FA. No fancy gadgets, no complicated setup, just a quick one-time code in your inbox or text messages that locks out hackers even if your password is compromised.
🔑 What is OTP via SMS & Email?
One-Time Passwords (OTPs) are temporary codes generated at login to verify a user’s identity. Even if your password is stolen, a hacker can’t get in without the OTP.
Here’s how it works:
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You log in with your Jira username and password.
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A random 6-digit OTP is generated.
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The OTP is sent instantly to your mobile phone (SMS) or email inbox.
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You enter the OTP, and access is granted.
Since OTPs are short-lived and single-use, even if an attacker gets their hands on it, it’s useless after the expiry window set by the admin (which is usually a few seconds).
✅ Why Teams Love OTP via SMS/Email
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Zero Learning Curve → All you have to do is enter the OTP/code you received via SMS or email.
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No Extra Setup → No hardware tokens or apps required.
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Low-Cost & Quick Rollout → Everyone already has email and SMS, making deployment fast and budget-friendly.
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Stops Password-Only Attacks → Even if hackers steal credentials, they can’t log in without the OTP.
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Compliance Friendly → Meets mandates like DORA, NIS2, CISA, and more.
Basically, OTP via SMS & Email is the fastest way to upgrade your Atlassian security without overwhelming users.
🔒 How Secure Is It?
Compared to password-only login, OTP is like upgrading from a flimsy wooden door to a solid steel lock.
And with miniOrange Two Factor Authentication, security gets even stronger thanks to:
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Short expiry times (codes expire in seconds/minutes - set by the admin)
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IP restrictions (limit access by network)
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Brute-force lockouts (block repeated failed attempts)
You can even:
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Enable OTP for specific users or groups
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Control OTP expiry and retries
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Seamlessly integrate with your existing login flow
It’s user-friendly, secure, and keeps your team productive.
💡 What’s Next in the 2FA Series?
In the next article, we’ll explore Authenticator Apps - another powerful way to secure your Atlassian accounts.
Because when it comes to protecting your business, layered defense is the name of the game. 🔐
If you have any questions or want to see the plugin in action, reach out to us at atlassiansupport@xecurify.com
