Authentication
The process of verifying the identity of a user, system, or entity
Authentication is the process of verifying the identity of a user, system, or entity. It answers the question "Who are you?" and typically involves presenting credentials such as passwords, biometrics, or security tokens.
Common authentication methods include:
- Username and password
- Multi-factor authentication (MFA)
- Biometric verification
- OAuth/OpenID Connect
- Certificate-based authentication
Authentication is distinct from authorization, which determines what an authenticated user is allowed to do.