Answer :
Authentication systems use various methods to verify the identity of a user before granting access to a system or resource. The two most common forms of identification used by these systems are:
Username and Password:
- Who?: Typically used by most online or digital platforms such as email services, social media, bank accounts, and more.
- What?: A username is a unique identifier for a user, while a password is a secret key known only to the user and the system.
- How?: During the login process, users are prompted to enter their username and password. The system then checks if this combination matches the stored credentials.
- Why?: It's a simple and cost-effective way to authenticate users, providing a basic level of security. However, it relies heavily on the strength and secrecy of the password.
Fingerprint:
- Who?: Increasingly used in smartphones, laptops, and secure access systems in businesses and facilities.
- What?: A fingerprint sensor reads and matches the unique patterns on an individual's fingertip.
- How?: Users place their finger on a sensor, and the system compares the scanned fingerprint to the stored fingerprint data.
- Why?: Fingerprints offer a higher level of security as they are unique to each individual and difficult to replicate, providing a convenient and fast authentication method.
Username and password systems are prevalent due to their simplicity and familiarity, while fingerprint recognition is favored for its convenience and additional security it provides.
