What is the process of identifying an individual for secure access?

The process of identifying an individual for secure access is primarily described by authentication. This is the mechanism through which a system verifies the identity of a user. Authentication typically involves validating a user's credentials, such as a password, fingerprint, or cryptographic token, to ensure that they are who they claim to be. This step is crucial in accessing secure systems or data since it safeguards against unauthorized access.

Authentication can take various forms, including something the user knows (like a password), something the user has (such as a smart card), or something the user is (biometric data). This multi-faceted approach enhances security by making it difficult for unauthorized users to gain access.

While identification is about recognizing and labeling a user, validation and verification refer to separate measures that can ensure the accuracy or legitimacy of the identification. These concepts play supportive roles in the broader context of securing access but do not directly describe the core process of establishing and confirming identity.