authentication

Authentication is the process of verifying the identity of a user, device, or other entity in a computer system. It ensures that someone or something is who or what they claim to be. This is often achieved by checking credentials like usernames and passwords, using multi-factor authentication (MFA), or employing digital certificates. Successful authentication grants access to system resources, while failed authentication typically denies access. It’s a critical security measure to prevent unauthorized access and protect sensitive data.