security en
Authentication
security
Also called: authn
Plain-language definition
Plain-language definition
The process of verifying that someone or something is who it claims to be.
Why it matters
Strong authentication helps prevent an attacker from entering another user’s account.
Technical detail
Authentication validates a claimant using one or more authenticators and establishes an authenticated session or assertion at a defined assurance level.
Examples
- A user signs in with a passkey before viewing private device records.
Related terms
Sources and review
Reviewed July 12, 2026 by e2e-1783854138445-0citu53rtqqe@test.repairyour.tech. Next review due January 11, 2027.
- Digital Identity Guidelines Glossary — National Institute of Standards and Technology Accessed 7/11/2026
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