Describe the difference between authentication and authorization in the context of cybersecurity.

Authentication vs Authorization in Cybersecurity

Authentication and authorization are two critical concepts in cybersecurity that play a significant role in ensuring the protection of valuable assets. Here is the fundamental difference between the two:

Authentication

Authentication is the process of verifying the identity of a user or system. It is the first line of defense in cybersecurity and involves validating credentials such as usernames, passwords, biometric data, or security tokens. Once the authentication process is successful, the user or system is granted access to the resources or services.

Authorization

Authorization, on the other hand, determines what actions or resources a user or system can access after successful authentication. It involves setting permissions and privileges based on the user's role, responsibilities, or level of trust. Authorization ensures that users can only access the information or perform actions that are necessary for their job function, reducing the risk of unauthorized access.

In summary, authentication verifies the identity of a user or system, while authorization controls the level of access granted to authenticated users, enhancing the overall security of the system.