Authentication and authorization are two fundamental concepts in the realm of cybersecurity, often used interchangeably but representing distinct processes.
Authentication is the process of verifying the identity of a user or system. It ensures that individuals are who they claim to be, typically through methods such as passwords, biometrics, or security tokens. For instance, when you log into your email account by entering your username and password, you are undergoing authentication.
On the other hand, authorization occurs after authentication and determines what an authenticated user is allowed to do within a system. It involves granting permissions to access specific resources or perform certain actions based on predefined policies. For example, once you have logged into your email account (authentication), authorization dictates whether you can read emails, send messages, or access administrative settings.
Understanding the distinction between these two concepts is crucial for implementing effective security measures in any organization. While authentication focuses on identity verification, authorization ensures that users have appropriate access rights based on their roles and responsibilities. Together, they form a robust framework for protecting sensitive information and maintaining system integrity.
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