Authentication

Definition

Authentication is the process of proving that a user or system is who they claim to be before access is granted. It is a security check that happens every time someone logs in or a device communicates with another system that requires trust. Authentication answers the question: “Are you really the person or system you say you are?”

There are three main types of authentication factors:

* Something you know, such as a password or PIN
* Something you have, such as a phone, hardware token, or smart card
* Something you are, such as a fingerprint or face scan

Many systems combine these factors to create Multi-Factor Authentication, which makes it much harder for attackers to break in with only one stolen credential.

Authentication logs show:

* Which account attempted to log in
* Whether the login succeeded or failed
* When and where the attempt happened
* What system was accessed

In cybersecurity investigations, these logs are essential. They help analysts spot suspicious behavior such as repeated failed logins, impossible travel between locations, or access from devices that do not normally belong to that user. Since attackers often rely on stolen credentials, authentication is one of the first places defenders look for early warning signs of compromise.

Authentication

Definition

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