Authentication vs. Authorization

Authentication and authorization are two terms that are generally used interchangeably. They are two distinct elements of identity and access management. It is important to understand these two elements and the differences between them.

Authentication

Authentication is the validation of a user who is trying to access a system. Users are assigned a user ID or user name with a password to access systems. The user needs to input the user name and password. To ensure authentication is more secure, an OTP (one time password) may be sent to the email or mobile phone of the user. This OTP needs to be entered to access the system. This is two-factor authentication that is becoming a norm.

Once the user name and password is entered, the system compares it with the database. It helps to confirm user identity, so they are granted access to the system. Once authentication is done and the user enters the system, next comes authorization.

Authorization

Authorization is used to determine the level of access a user has to a system. A user may gain access to the system, but to use the services they need to be authorized. There can be different modules in a system and authorization can be controlled. Usually, the system administrator has complete authorization and also the power to decide who can access which part.

Importance of these key elements

The digital world we live in has many risks. Cybercriminals are waiting for a chance to hack into systems and compromise it. Organizations need to secure their system. This is where authentication and authorization is of help. There are key issues related to these elements that need to be known.

• SQL injection is a technique where hackers can use SQL code instead of a user name to sign in and then steal information from the database.

• The back end of a system is accessible only to the administrator/owner of the system. When a user signs in to a system, they access the back-end through the front end. They can only access those parts to which they are authorized or have permissions.
• Giving direct access to the backend is risky and can expose the database to risks. It should be avoided.
• The reason for security risks is the improper use of coding practices. Security standards are needed to ensure that the system being developed is robust and secure.
• Both authentication and authorization are essential to prevent fraud and ensure enhanced security of data.

The article has been published by the editorial board of the Identity Herald. For more

information please visit www.identityherald.com

Authentication and authorization are two terms that are generally used interchangeably. They are two distinct elements of identity and access management. It is important to understand these two elements and the differences between them.

Authentication

Authentication is the validation of a user who is trying to access a system. Users are assigned a user ID or user name with a password to access systems. The user needs to input the user name and password. To ensure authentication is more secure, an OTP (one time password) may be sent to the email or mobile phone of the user. This OTP needs to be entered to access the system. This is two-factor authentication that is becoming a norm.

Once the user name and password is entered, the system compares it with the database. It helps to confirm user identity, so they are granted access to the system. Once authentication is done and the user enters the system, next comes authorization.

Authorization

Authorization is used to determine the level of access a user has to a system. A user may gain access to the system, but to use the services they need to be authorized. There can be different modules in a system and authorization can be controlled. Usually, the system administrator has complete authorization and also the power to decide who can access which part.

Importance of these key elements

The digital world we live in has many risks. Cybercriminals are waiting for a chance to hack into systems and compromise it. Organizations need to secure their system. This is where authentication and authorization is of help. There are key issues related to these elements that need to be known.

• SQL injection is a technique where hackers can use SQL code instead of a user name to sign in and then steal information from the database.

• The back end of a system is accessible only to the administrator/owner of the system. When a user signs in to a system, they access the back-end through the front end. They can only access those parts to which they are authorized or have permissions.
• Giving direct access to the backend is risky and can expose the database to risks. It should be avoided.
• The reason for security risks is the improper use of coding practices. Security standards are needed to ensure that the system being developed is robust and secure.
• Both authentication and authorization are essential to prevent fraud and ensure enhanced security of data.

The article has been published by the editorial board of the Identity Herald. For more

information please visit www.identityherald.com