What is a common defense mechanism against brute force attacks?

A common and effective defense mechanism against brute force attacks is implementing a strategy that includes multiple layers of security, which is encapsulated in the option that states "All of the above."

Two-factor authentication significantly enhances security by requiring a second form of verification beyond just a password. This means that even if an attacker successfully guesses a password through a brute force method, they would still need an additional factor (like a text message code or an authentication app) to access the account.

Using complex passwords is foundational in blocking brute force attacks, as complicated passwords require more time and processing power to brute force. The longer and more intricate the password, the fewer chances an attacker has to succeed within a reasonable timeframe.

Limiting account lockout time is another tactic that can deter attackers. If a particular number of failed login attempts leads to a temporary lockout of the account, it slows down an attacker’s ability to guess the password by brute force, as they will have to wait for the account to unlock before attempting more guesses.

All these measures together provide a robust defense, making it significantly more difficult for attackers to succeed with brute force methods. Therefore, incorporating all of them strengthens overall security posture against such attacks.