Authentication vs Authorization: Key Differences

Authentication and authorization are two critical concepts in cyber security, often used interchangeably but serving distinct purposes. Authentication is the process of verifying a user\'s identity confirming they are who they claim to be, typically through usernames, passwords, or biometric data. In contrast, authorization determines what an authenticated user is allowed to access or perform within a system. For example, logging into an account is authentication, while being permitted to edit or delete content is authorization. Understanding these differences is essential for designing secure systems. Implementing both properly ensures restricted access to sensitive data and minimizes security risks. This topic is especially relevant for IT professionals, developers, and cyber security students aiming to strengthen access control strategies.