Get Started
  • Home
  • /
  • Entity authentication

Entity authentication

The process of verifying the identity of a non-human entity within a system.

Description

Entity authentication refers to the methods and processes used to verify the identity of non-human entities (NHIs) such as devices, applications, or services in a network. In today’s interconnected world, NHIs play a crucial role in Internet of Things (IoT) environments, cloud services, and automated systems, where traditional human-centric authentication methods are not applicable. Entity authentication ensures that only authorized NHIs can access resources or communicate within a network, thereby preventing unauthorized access and potential security breaches. Techniques for entity authentication can include digital certificates, cryptographic keys, and secure token systems. The integrity and confidentiality of communications between NHIs can be upheld through robust authentication mechanisms, which are vital for maintaining trust in automated processes and ensuring data security. As the number of NHIs continues to grow exponentially, effective authentication strategies are increasingly important for safeguarding networks and information systems.

Examples

  • A smart thermostat authenticating itself to a home automation system using a digital certificate.
  • An industrial sensor verifying its identity to a cloud service through a pre-shared key.

Additional Information

  • Entity authentication can prevent impersonation attacks in networked environments.
  • Protocols like OAuth and mutual TLS are commonly used for entity authentication.

References