What is Authentication
Verifying the identity of a user, service or device before accessing the system.
Definition
Authentication answers the question: “Who are you?” In AI systems, it is important because models and agents can work with documents, mail, CRM, payments and internal databases. Without identity verification, access to data and activities cannot be securely granted.
Example
The user logs into the corporate AI assistant through a work account and a two-factor code.
Why it matters
The term is important for the security of AI tools: a powerful assistant without the correct input can become a data leakage channel.
How it works
The system verifies a password, token, one-time code, key, biometrics or other factor. After successful verification, the user receives a confirmed session.
Where it is used
- login to AI service
- access to corporate assistants
- API protection
Limitations
Authentication does not solve everything: after logging in, you still need to determine what actions and data the user is allowed to do. This is already an authorization task.