As a result of the rapid digitalization of the world as we know it, passwords are no longer as effective as they used to be. These days, having just a password as security for critical and sensitive information or financial data is like having a toddler guard Fort Knox. Cybercriminals have evolved and are now pretty good at guessing the passwords of unsuspecting users or deploying malicious attacks such as malware or phishing. An easy solution to this is the use of Authentication Technology. 

What is Authentication? 

Authentication is a process where a set of identifying credentials provided by the user is compared to those saved on a file within the database of the validated user’s information to verify the user’s identity and grant them access to the system. 

It is the process of validating a user’s identity beyond an ordinary password. The authentication process falls into various very distinct forms, and they are:

1. Biometric authentication: Biometric authentication verifies a user’s identity based on their biological traits, which have been previously captured and stored on the system. There are different forms of biometric authentication. 
2. Password authentication: This is the most common form of authentication. Many systems suggest that users use passwords they can easily remember to avoid getting locked out of their systems. Still, it is essential not to use passwords that cybercriminals can easily guess. Intense and complex passwords are advisable as they can be composed of numbers, letters, and upper and lower cases. 
3. Token authentication: A system sends a token (number) to the email or phone number registered with the user’s account when they attempt to log in. This token is then used to login in addition to a password. You will be refused entry into the account or system without this token. 
4. Multi-factor authentication: This is a form of authentication where you must pass through two or more verification steps (this usually includes security questions unique to the user) before you are allowed access to the account. This provides an extra layer of security compared to single-factor authentications. 

Other forms of authentication include Facial Authentication, Voice Recognition, Fingerprint Scanner, and Eye scanner.

Why is Authentication Necessary in Cybersecurity?

Authentication ensures that individuals and small and large corporations protect their networks by allowing only verified users to access their secure and private data. Without authentication, your system will have an easily accessible, glass-like vulnerability that will take cybercriminals little time to figure out. 

Always Be One Step Ahead of Cybercriminals.

Large corporations like Adobe, Yahoo, and Equifax have fallen victim to avoidable data breaches due to insecure user authentication processes. This led to data theft and a massive decline in user trust.

 It is vital to ensure that you do not fall victim to malicious attacks and data leaks by investing in high-quality authentication tools that help you secure your website. At Virtually Managed IT Solutions LLC, we’re experts at security matters ranging from network security to application and cloud security. Get in touch with us if you want a consultation or to learn more about our security packages.