Authentication vs Authorization: What’s the Difference?

Updated on July 18, 2024.

Authentication and authorization are both important processes in Identity and Access Management (IAM) but they play different roles. While authentication validates a user’s identity, ensuring they are who they claim to be, authorization specifies the resources or actions they are allowed to access or perform. 

Continue reading to learn more about the key differences between authentication and authorization.

What is authentication?

Authentication is the initial step in verifying a user’s identity before granting access to networks, accounts, applications, systems and other resources. During authentication, the user typically provides a username as identification to confirm their identity. Additionally, they verify their identity by entering a password, token or by using their biometrics. This process ensures that access is restricted to authorized users only.

What is authorization?

Authorization is the process of determining a user’s access level to system resources such as data, applications and networks. Once a user is authenticated, an administrator or system assigns specific access privileges based on their role or responsibilities within the organization. For example, an employee may be able to access files and applications to do their job, but they aren’t authorized to access files reserved only for managerial roles. This controls access within the organization, thereby preventing unauthorized entry to its resources.

The key differences between authentication and authorization

Here are some of the key differences between authentication and authorization. 

Authentication and authorization differ in what they verify

Authentication verifies a user’s identity, whereas authorization specifies the user’s access permissions to specific resources. When a user needs to access a file within their organization, they must authenticate themselves to confirm their identity. Once authenticated, the system then authorizes the user, ensuring they have the necessary access permissions for the requested resource.

Authentication and authorization is configured by different entities 

Authentication involves the user providing various forms of verification to confirm their identity. Users can select and update these verification methods as needed. In contrast, authorization is managed by the organization, which decides who can access specific resources and the extent of that access. Users do not have the ability to adjust their access levels themselves.

Authentication and authorization use different methods to transmit data

During authentication, users submit ID tokens like passwords or biometrics to verify their identity. Once users have gained network access, authorization occurs with access tokens. The organization configures settings granting users permission to access system resources. When the access token align with system settings, users are authorized to access resources.

Implement secure authentication and authorization with Keeper®

Authentication and authorization are crucial for safeguarding your organization’s confidential information and preventing security breaches. The most effective method to ensure strong authentication and authorization is through a Privileged Access Management (PAM) solution.

Zero-Trust KeeperPAM™ is a zero-knowledge, zero-trust PAM solution designed to securely manage privileged accounts for organizations. It integrates Keeper Enterprise Password Manager, Keeper Secrets Manager® and Keeper Connection Manager® into one unified platform to provide comprehensive control and visibility over systems and infrastructure

Curious to learn more about Zero-Trust KeeperPAM? Request a demo today.