Skip to content
Tech Dictionary
DictionaryThe dataContribute
Dictionary/Security
SecurityBeginner

Authentication

Also known as authn · login

Checking that someone or something is who it claims to be.

Think of it this way

The door asking 'who are you?' before doing anything else.

In the real world

A service verifies a user's password or security key.

One thing to remember

Proving identity does not establish permission for every action.

Related

AuthorizationMulti-factor authentication

Go a little deeper

  • OWASP Cheat Sheet Series (opens in a new tab)
Improve this entry

What do we build for, if not to lessen each other’s hardship?

Tech Dictionary