A Comparative Study on User Authentication Methods

Abstract

Everyone needs security, to use the internet, systems, and applications safely, protect their information and data, and prevent undesirable access. authentication plays critical role in security. There are many types of authentications, each one produces a unique method to confirm a user’s identity. Password-based authentication is the most popular method, despite vulnerabilities and breaches. In this paper, a brief overview of traditional user authentication methods (Passwords, Smart-Card Authentication, Digital Certificate Authentication) and Biometric Methods are provided. In addition, the Strengths and the Vulnerabilities of each technique are described. Biometric authentication is based on a unique physiological or behavioral character like user finger print, voices, retinas, and facial features. It provides powerful security depending on unique characteristics and features that are difficult to replicate or steal. So biometric authentication provides a reliable user identification than other methods despite that traditional methods like passwords are prevalent, biometric authentication offers highly reliable performance in security. The basis of the biometric system is a model recognition system.