The process of authentication involves verifying the identity of a user, system, or device before granting access to a network, application, or data. It ensures that only authorized users and systems can interact with secured resources.
Authentication is crucial for safeguarding sensitive data and systems by minimizing the risk of identity theft, fraud, and cyberattacks. It also plays a key role in ensuring compliance with security regulations such as HIPAA, GDPR, and PCI DSS while enabling secure digital interactions across websites, applications, and enterprise environments.
Types of Authentication:
- Knowledge-Based (Something You Know): Passwords, PINs, and security questions.
- Possession-Based (Something You Have): Security tokens, smart cards, or one-time passcodes (OTP).
- Biometric-Based (Something You Are): Fingerprint scans, facial recognition, or voice authentication.
- Adaptive Authentication: Dynamically adjusts security requirements based on risk factors such as location, device, or behavior.