Authentication
The process of verifying the identity of a user, device, or system attempting to access a resource.
In-Depth Explanation
Authentication verifies identity - confirming you are who you claim to be. In API and system integration contexts, authentication ensures only authorised entities can access services.
Authentication methods:
- API keys: Simple tokens for service identification
- OAuth 2.0: Delegated authorisation with tokens
- JWT: Self-contained tokens with claims
- Mutual TLS: Certificate-based authentication
- Basic auth: Username/password (legacy, avoid)
Authentication factors:
- Something you know (password, PIN)
- Something you have (token, phone, certificate)
- Something you are (biometrics)
Multi-factor authentication (MFA):
- Combines multiple factors
- Significantly increases security
- Required for sensitive systems
API authentication flow:
- Client provides credentials
- Server validates credentials
- Server issues token/session
- Client includes token in subsequent requests
Business Context
Proper authentication prevents unauthorised access to systems and data. It's the foundation of API and system security.
How Clever Ops Uses This
We implement secure authentication for Australian business AI systems, ensuring only authorised users and systems can access AI capabilities.
Example Use Case
"Authenticating AI API requests using OAuth 2.0 tokens, ensuring each request comes from an authorised application with valid credentials."