Differentiate between identification and authentication.

Identification and authentication are two distinct processes within the realm of computer security and access control. Let's delve into the technical details of each:

1. Identification:
   • Definition: Identification is the process of claiming an identity, typically in the form of a username, account number, or any other unique identifier.
   • Technical Mechanisms:
     • Usernames/IDs: Users provide a unique identifier, such as a username or user ID, to assert their identity.
     • Biometrics: This involves using unique physical or behavioral characteristics, like fingerprints or retina scans, to identify individuals.
     • Smart Cards/RFID: Identification cards or devices with embedded information can be used to identify users.
     • Email Addresses: In some systems, an email address may serve as the identification credential.
2. Authentication:
   • Definition: Authentication is the process of verifying the claimed identity to ensure that the user is who they say they are.
   • Technical Mechanisms:
     • Passwords: Users provide a secret password that should match the stored password associated with the provided identifier.
     • Biometric Authentication: Biometric data is compared against pre-enrolled data to authenticate the user.
     • Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Requires two independent forms of authentication, like a password and a temporary code from a mobile app.
     • Public Key Infrastructure (PKI): Involves the use of cryptographic keys, where possession of a private key is used to authenticate.
     • One-Time Passwords (OTP): Temporary codes generated for a single login session.
3. Differences:
   • Identification is about claiming an identity: It answers the question, "Who are you?"
   • Authentication is about verifying the claimed identity: It answers the question, "Are you really who you say you are?"
   • Identification precedes authentication: Users first provide an identifier (username, email, etc.), and then authentication is performed to validate that identity.
4. Importance:
   • Identification is a prerequisite for authentication: Before authenticating, a system must know who is trying to access it.
   • Authentication ensures security: By confirming the identity, the system prevents unauthorized access and protects sensitive information.

Identification is the process of presenting an identity, and authentication is the process of verifying that identity. Together, they form the basis of secure access control systems in various domains, including computer networks, online services, and physical facilities.