What is user authentication? How does this feature work?

Did you know that the more you digitize and automate your operations, the more vulnerable you are to a data breach? The personal information we enter somewhere on the Internet is quickly becoming a tool for hackers to use to trick us.

Hackers often target famous companies to steal personal data of millions of customers. And this is exactly why you need to take extra measures to protect your online accounts.

Let's start with the basics like user authentication. Here's the definition of user authentication and how you can use it to strengthen your cybersecurity.

What is user authentication?

Human-computer interactions on networks can prevent or enable cyberattacks. To secure a web application, some measures are needed to recognize and grant access to only authorized users.

 User authentication is a security process that prevents unauthorized users from accessing your device or network. It is a login procedure where an application requires a personalized password to grant you access to it. If a user lacks the appropriate login permissions to the network, their authentication will fail.

User authentication works on advanced technology. A hacker trying to break into a secured network will have to put in a lot of effort. If other cybersecurity measures such as intrusion detection systems are in place on the network, attackers will be detected before they gain access.

Why is user authentication important?

Targeting unsuspecting victims is a daily routine for cybercriminals. As an online user, protecting your device against unauthorized access is essential.

From shopping online to studying online and connecting with colleagues, you leave a digital trail that hackers can track and manipulate to compromise your device.

User authentication is effective in reducing cyber threats to the barest minimum. Attackers' tricks only work if they penetrate your network. Authentication is like an obstacle that stops them. As long as this function is strong enough, bad guys will not be able to achieve their goals.

 User authentication helps enforce security, establish trust, and ensure privacy. Visitors to your network will be willing to spend a minute or two on the authentication process because it protects them from attacks.

How does user authentication work?

From providing a passcode to presenting an identification card, user authentication ensures that network or application access does not fall into the wrong hands. But how exactly does this feature work?

The first step is to enter your credentials on the login page or username and password bar.

The next step is to authenticate the login information. The authentication process begins when the server you are trying to access decrypts the personalized information it receives. This information is then compared with the credentials you successfully entered and stored in the database.

Finally, the computer approves or denies the authentication request you made.

With user authentication, information entered into the computer for verification is either approved or rejected. In case the computer rejects your request, it indicates that you have entered incorrect information or forgotten your password.

Depending on your settings, you may have the opportunity to make another request or be blocked from accessing the web application for which you are verifying your identity.

Your digital presence is interconnected from your personal computer to your smartphone and social media accounts. A breach on one account can affect all accounts without strong security.

Cyber ​​attackers always aim to hack systems at all costs. User authentication is effective, but supplement it with protections to get the most out of your cyber security. Anyone trying to break into a network will get tired of having to overcome so many obstacles.