User authentication: Why is it important?

Osborn Walter

Mar 6, 2023 | 8 min read

Privacy

Overview

User authentication is a security process used to prevent unauthorized users from accessing your device or network. It is a login process where an application requests personalized passwords to grant authorized access to you. If users lack the correct login credentials, their authentication fails.

How User Authentication Works?

Types of User Authentication

Why is User Authentication important?

How to Improve User Authentication?

How User Authentication Works?

The process of user authentication can be broken down into the following steps:

① The user provides their identity information, such as username, password, email, etc. to the system.

② The system verifies the provided identity information against pre-set rules or standards to check if it is correct and valid.

③ If the verification is successful, the system allows the user access to the requested resources or services; if the verification fails, the system denies the user's access and may prompt them to re-enter their identity information or take other measures.

Types of User Authentication

① Knowledge-based User Authentication

This is the most common type that relies on information known by the user, such as passwords, PIN codes, security questions, etc. The advantage of this type is simplicity and ease of use, but the disadvantage is that it can be easily guessed, stolen, or forgotten.

② Possession-based User Authentication

This type relies on possessions that the user owns, such as smart cards, tokens, mobile phones, etc. The advantage of this type is that it is more difficult to replicate or steal, but the disadvantage is the need for additional devices or costs, and the possibility of loss or damage.

③ Biometric-based User Authentication

This type relies on the biological characteristics possessed by the user, such as fingerprints, iris, facial recognition, etc. The advantage of this type is that it is the most difficult to forge or impersonate, but the disadvantage is the need for special equipment or technology, and possible influence from environmental or individual differences.

Why is User Authentication important?

Targeting unsuspecting victims is the daily work of cyber criminals. As an active online user, protecting your device from unauthorized access is essential for maintaining security. From online shopping to online learning and connecting with peers, you leave behind digital footprints that hackers can trace and manipulate to harm your devices.

User authentication can effectively minimize the network threats. The tricks of attackers only work if they have entered your network. Authentication acts like a barrier that keeps them locked out. As long as it is strong enough, they won't be able to knock it down.

User authentication can achieve confidentiality, establish trust, and ensure privacy. Visitors accessing your network are willing to spend a minute or two going through the authentication process if it protects them from attacks.

How to Improve User Authentication?

Although user authentication can provide a certain level of security, it is not foolproof. Hackers are constantly seeking new ways to crack passwords and tokens to steal your identity and data. Therefore, you need to take measures to improve your user authentication, such as:

① Use strong passwords

A strong password is one that includes uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters, with a length of at least 8 characters. Strong passwords can resist brute force attacks and dictionary attacks, as they are difficult to guess or infer.

② Change passwords regularly

Even if you use a strong password, it is possible for it to be leaked or stolen. Therefore, you should change your passwords regularly to prevent any potential threats. You should also avoid using the same password on different websites or applications to prevent multiple impacts in case of a leak.

③ Enable multi-factor authentication

Multi-factor authentication is a method that requires users to provide two or more authentication factors during the login process. This adds an extra layer of security because even if hackers obtain your password, they will need additional factors to access your account.

④ Use trusted devices and networks

You should try to avoid logging into your accounts on public or insecure devices and networks, as this could expose your credentials or data to third parties. If you must do so, make sure to use private browsing mode and log out of your accounts once finished.

⑤ Use VPN services

A VPN is a virtual private network that creates an encrypted tunnel between your device and the internet, protecting your online activities from surveillance and interference. Using a VPN service can enhance your user authentication as it can hide your real IP address and location, preventing any location-based attacks or tracking. Additionally, a VPN can help you bypass any geographic restrictions or censorship, allowing you to freely access any websites or applications.

One recommended VPN service is MetroVPN . MetroVPN is a high-speed, secure, user-friendly, and unlimited VPN service that can protect your online privacy and security. MetroVPN features include: