What is the difference between authentication and authorization in terms of computer security?

Authentication is the process of confirming the identity of a user or system, usually through login credentials such as username and password. It ensures that the individual or entity trying to access a system is who they claim to be.

Authorization, on the other hand, involves determining whether a user has the permission to access specific resources or perform certain actions within a system. It defines the level of access or privileges granted to the authenticated user after they have been successfully identified.

In summary, authentication verifies the identity of a user, while authorization controls the access rights and permissions granted to that user within a system.