Authentication
The process of verifying the identity of a user, device, or system, typically through credentials like passwords, biometrics, or cryptographic keys.
Used in the Books
This term appears in 2 chapters:
"...ng reserves during off-peak periods when spare capacity exists in the schedule. Cyber security: Organizations increase security redundancy (backup authentication systems, additional monitoring, elevated access restrictions) when threat intelligence indicates heightened attack probability - during geopolitical ..."
"... operate when central systems fail - Root Cause: Dependencies on central functions create brittleness - Example: Cloud provider's centralized authentication service fails; thousands of customers can't access applications despite local infrastructure working. - Diagnostic: Conduct failure mode analysis..."
Biological Context
Biological authentication is everywhere. Immune systems authenticate 'self' versus 'non-self' through molecular markers. Plants authenticate symbiotic bacteria through chemical signals. Parent birds authenticate offspring by unique calls. These systems distinguish legitimate partners from imposters.
Business Application
Authentication is the foundation of digital trust. Weak authentication enables fraud, data breaches, and identity theft. Multi-factor authentication combines something you know (password), something you have (device), and something you are (biometrics).