The process of verifying the identity of a non-human entity.
Description
In the context of Non-Human Identities (NHIs), authentication refers to the methods and processes used to verify the identity of entities that are not human, such as devices, applications, or services. This is crucial in an increasingly interconnected digital landscape where IoT devices, automated systems, and APIs communicate and operate independently. Effective authentication mechanisms ensure that only legitimate entities can access resources, perform actions, or communicate over networks. Common methods include the use of digital certificates, tokens, API keys, and biometric authentication for devices. The integrity and security of these systems largely depend on robust authentication protocols, as unauthorized access can lead to data breaches, service disruptions, and compromised systems. As NHIs become more prevalent, ensuring their secure authentication becomes vital for maintaining trust and security in digital ecosystems.
Examples
- A smart thermostat authenticating with a home network using a secure token.
- An API service requiring an API key for access to its resources.
Additional Information
- Authentication mechanisms for NHIs often need to be automated and scalable.
- The rise of NHIs has led to the development of new authentication standards and protocols.
References
- 3 key strategies for mitigating non-human identity risks
- Human vs. Non-Human Identity in SaaS
- Non-human Account Management (v4)
- Entro Security Labs Releases Non-Human Identities Research Security Advisory
- #SSI101: An overview of non-human identities - Spherity - Medium
- authentication
- Authentication vs Identification / Unorthodox
- Proof of Humanity and Cost of Forgery
- Roger Clarke's 'Authentication Model'
- Personhood Credentials: Everything to Know About the Proposed ID for the Internet