Authentication is the process of verifying the identity of a user, device, or system seeking access to a secured resource. It serves as a critical component in cybersecurity frameworks to ensure that only authorized entities can access sensitive data or perform certain actions. Authentication methods can vary in complexity, ranging from simple username and password combinations to more secure approaches like two-factor authentication (2FA), which combines something the user knows (e.g., a password) with something the user has (e.g., a mobile device to receive a one-time code). Other advanced methods include biometric verification, such as fingerprint or facial recognition, and digital certificates that leverage cryptographic techniques. Authentication is often paired with authorization, which determines the level of access permissions an authenticated user should have. Together, authentication and authorization form a foundational layer of defense in secure computing environments, protecting against unauthorized access and potential cyber threats.