User Authentication and Access Control
In the context of information security, user authentication and access control are two fundamental concepts that help protect data and resources from unauthorized access. These mechanisms are critical for maintaining the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of systems and data within an organization or network. User authentication is the process of verifying the identity of a user who attempts to access a system. Access control is the mechanism that follows authentication, which determines and enforces what authenticated users are allowed to do.
By the end of this chapter, you’ll understand not only the “how” but also the “why” behind these critical components of cybersecurity. You’ll see that they’re more than just technical jargon; they’re the guardians of our digital universe. Let’s embark on this journey to demystify these guardians—to understand how they work...
