Which term means verifying the identity of the person or device attempting to access the system?

Which term means verifying the identity of the person or device attempting to access the system?

• A. Availability
• B. Integrity
• C. Confidentiality
• D. Authentication

Answer: (D)

Verifying the identity of the person or device attempting to access a system is authentication. This step confirms who the entity claims to be before granting access, forming the first line of defense in controlling who can enter. Authentication can involve something you know (password), something you have (security token or smart card), something you are (biometric), or something the system holds (digital certificate). It differs from the other security goals: confidentiality protects data from being read by unauthorized parties, integrity protects data from being altered, and availability ensures systems and data are accessible when needed. Once identity is verified, the system can apply authorization to grant appropriate permissions.

Verifying the identity of the person or device attempting to access a system is authentication. This step confirms who the entity claims to be before granting access, forming the first line of defense in controlling who can enter. Authentication can involve something you know (password), something you have (security token or smart card), something you are (biometric), or something the system holds (digital certificate). It differs from the other security goals: confidentiality protects data from being read by unauthorized parties, integrity protects data from being altered, and availability ensures systems and data are accessible when needed. Once identity is verified, the system can apply authorization to grant appropriate permissions.