authentication

Authentication in Identity & Access Management

Authentication is the first step in IAM — verifying identity before granting access. A strong authentication strategy ensures only authorized users gain entry to your systems.

Types of Authentication

  • Password-based: The traditional username/password model, now often enhanced with password policies and breach monitoring.
  • Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Uses two or more factors — something you know (password), have (token/device), or are (biometrics).
  • Passwordless: Eliminates passwords via biometrics, email links, or FIDO2 authenticators.
  • Biometric: Fingerprint, facial recognition, and voice authentication methods, integrated for seamless user access.
  • Adaptive Authentication: Dynamically adjusts authentication requirements based on risk signals like location, device, behavior.

How Authentication Works

A typical authentication flow looks like this:

  • User initiates a login request
  • System prompts for authentication (e.g., MFA)
  • Credentials or biometric data are verified
  • Upon success, a session or token is issued
IAM Authentication Flow Diagram

Authentication Standards

NIST SP 800-63B is a foundational document defining digital authentication best practices, including:

  • Discouraging periodic password resets
  • Requiring MFA for sensitive actions
  • Blocking commonly breached passwords

Best Practices

  • Use MFA for all users, especially administrators and remote access
  • Start implementing passwordless flows (e.g., WebAuthn, FIDO2)
  • Apply adaptive authentication for contextual risk evaluation
  • Use centralized identity providers (e.g., Azure AD, Okta)

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