What are the differences between Identification and Authentication?

What are the differences between Identification and Authentication?

Identification and authentication are important concepts in the field of security, and they have different meanings.

Identification: It is the process of allowing the system to recognize a user by providing their username, email address, or other information. In other words, identification is the process of confirming who the user is. Identification allows the system to identify a user based on the information they provide.

For example, when a user enters their username in a login form, they are identifying themselves to the system. The system then uses this information to check the user's permissions.

Authentication: It is the process of verifying whether the information provided by the user, such as username and password, biometric data, or other credentials, are valid and belong to the user. In other words, authentication is the process of confirming that the user is who they claim to be.

For example, when a user enters their username and password in a login form, the system verifies this information to ensure that the user is the one who is supposed to have access. Once the user is authenticated, the system grants them access based on their permissions.

In summary, Identification confirms who the user is, and Authentication verifies whether the information provided by the user is valid and belongs to the user.

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