What is the process of verifying the identity of a user or device?

What is the process of verifying the identity of a user or device?

• A. Authorization
• B. Authentication
• C. Auditing
• D. Accounting

Answer: (B)

Authentication is the process of verifying the identity of a user or device. It happens when someone or something proves who they claim to be, using evidence such as a password (something you know), a token or smart card (something you have), or biometric data (something you are). When the provided evidence matches what the system expects, access is granted based on that verified identity. This is different from authorization, which decides what the authenticated user is allowed to do; auditing and accounting focus on tracking and recording actions rather than proving identity. Using multiple factors, like a password plus a fingerprint, strengthens authentication by requiring more than one piece of evidence.

Authentication is the process of verifying the identity of a user or device. It happens when someone or something proves who they claim to be, using evidence such as a password (something you know), a token or smart card (something you have), or biometric data (something you are). When the provided evidence matches what the system expects, access is granted based on that verified identity. This is different from authorization, which decides what the authenticated user is allowed to do; auditing and accounting focus on tracking and recording actions rather than proving identity. Using multiple factors, like a password plus a fingerprint, strengthens authentication by requiring more than one piece of evidence.