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Authentication and Authorization Mechanisms

Authentication is the process of verifying the identity of a user or system. It ensures that the person or entity attempting to access a system or service is who they claim to be.

  • It typically involves something the user knows (password), something the user has (security token or smartphone), or something the user is (biometric data like a fingerprint or face scan).

Example: Logging into an online account by entering a username and password is a form of authentication.

Authentication is the first step in securing an OS, as it verifies the identity of users or devices.

Common authentication mechanisms include:

  • Password-Based Authentication
  • Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
  • Biometric Authentication
  • Certificate-Based Authentication
  • Token-Based Authentication

1.) Password-Based Authentication

It requires users to enter a unique password associated with their account to verify their identity. It’s one of the most widely used authentication methods, relying on something the user knows (password) to confirm identity.

  • Example: Logging into a computer or email account with a username and password.

2.) Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

It enhances security by requiring two or more forms of verification from different categories: something the user knows (password), something the user has (smartphone for OTP), or something the user is (biometric data like fingerprints). This layered approach makes unauthorized access significantly harder.

  • Provides an extra layer of security beyond passwords alone.

This usually includes:

  • Something you know (password or PIN),
  • Something you have (smartphone for OTP),
  • Something you are (biometric data).

Example: Logging into a bank account with a password and a one-time passcode sent to a mobile device.

3.) Biometric Authentication

It uses unique biological characteristics (such as fingerprints, facial recognition, or iris scans) to verify identity. Biometrics offer a secure and convenient way to authenticate since they rely on something the user is.

Example: Unlocking a smartphone with a fingerprint or facial recognition.

4.) Certificate-Based Authentication

It uses digital certificates issued by a trusted certificate authority (CA) to verify the identity of users or devices. A digital certificate contains encrypted data to prove the holder’s identity, ensuring secure connections and access control.

  • Highly secure, especially for device authentication; reduces dependency on passwords.

Example: Client certificates used in SSL/TLS to establish secure connections.

5.) Token-Based Authentication

It relies on a token (a unique code or digital key) as proof of identity. Tokens can be time-based, generated by an app, or stored on a physical device (like a USB security key). This method adds a dynamic layer to authentication, reducing reliance on static credentials like passwords.

  • Example: Entering a time-limited code generated by an app to access online services.

Authorization is the process of determining what an authenticated user is allowed to do within a system.

  • Once a user’s identity has been verified, authorization defines their permissions and access levels, such as which files, applications, or resources they can use or modify.

Example: A bank teller may be authorized to view customer account information but not authorized to approve large transactions.

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