Did you know that the most common password is “123456”?
Simple passwords like that can cause major problems down the line. That’s because they allow hackers to gain access to a network and wreak havoc. The way to avoid that is through a strong authentication and authorization protocol.
In this brief guide, we’ll take a look at both before explaining why they’re important in IT support. Read on to learn more.
What Is Authentication?
Authentication involves verifying users to make sure they are who they say they are.
The three most common ways include password authentication, biometric authentication, and email authentication.
Password Authentication
This form of authentication relies on usernames and passwords. If the user types in the right username and password, then their identity is verified. Although it’s far from perfect (as we saw above), it works in many cases.
Biometric Authentication
Biometric authentication often uses fingerprints and retina scans to confirm a user’s identity. This form of verifying users can be more secure than password authentication. However, it’s still possible to hack.
For example, some create “master fingerprints” that are able to trick some scanners.
One-Time Passwords (OTP)
One-Time Passwords (OTP) are automatically generated passwords that are sent to you for a single transaction. This is common for signing into online bank accounts.
What Is Authorization?
Authorization comes after authentication. Authorizing a user is about granting permission to them so they can access certain resources, databases, or accounts.
The authorization process helps limit who has access to sensitive information. This is essential to overall network safety. It’s something that managed IT support services can help you with.
Proper authorization can prevent users from accessing other user accounts. This may include restricting free users from accessing premium user features. It can also prevent internal staff from accessing sensitive information they don’t need access to.
Why Authentication and Authorization Matter in IT Support
Common IT support services include cloud support, data recovery and backup, and cybersecurity. Authentication and authorization play a key role in all three.
The process of verifying users and granting permissions allows your team to collaborate in the cloud, store and retrieve sensitive information, and avoid cyber threats.
Oftentimes, cyberattacks result from broken authentication and broken access control. In other words, from weak authentication and authorization protocol.
That’s why a strong authentication and authorization system in place is so important.
It helps prevent unauthenticated users from getting into a network. If they do get in, it helps restrict their access. If they do get access, it makes it easier to spot and report unusual activity.
Create a Strong Authentication and Authorization Protocol
A strong business requires a strong team. Moreover, a strong team requires a strong authentication and authorization protocol. This ensures that only verified users gain access to what they need to access.
One of the best ways to do that is by hiring managed IT support to set up and monitor the system. Inception Network Strategies has been providing this kind of IT support to small businesses for over 20 years. Reach out today to see how we can help.