Editing Technology/Software Development/Web development/User authentication and authorization (section)

== User Authentication ==

User authentication is the process of verifying the identity of users before granting them access to a system or application. It establishes trust and ensures that only authorized individuals can interact with protected resources.

'''Common Authentication Methods''':

* '''Username and Password''': This is the most common authentication method. Users provide a unique username and a secret password, which is compared to the stored credentials in a secure manner. It is important for users to choose strong passwords and for developers to store and handle passwords securely, using techniques like hashing and salting.

* '''Multi-factor Authentication (MFA)''': MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring users to provide multiple forms of identification. This can include something they know (e.g., password), something they have (e.g., mobile device or security token), or something they are (e.g., biometric data like fingerprints or facial recognition).

* '''OAuth''': OAuth is an open standard for delegated authentication. It allows users to grant limited access to their resources on one website to another website or application without sharing their credentials directly. OAuth is commonly used for authentication with popular platforms like Google, Facebook, or Twitter.