authentication

Everyday

1. Checking that someone really is who they say they are, for example with a password, a code or a fingerprint. tree →
2. Checking that a thing, such as a painting or a signature, is real and not a fake. tree →

In the lessons

In computing and online safety lessons, authentication is how a website or app makes sure it is really you logging in. «Two-factor authentication» means two checks, like a password plus a code sent to a phone. In art and history it means proving that something is genuine.

Examples

• The app asks for authentication before you can see your messages. tree →
• Two-factor authentication sends a code to Mum's phone. tree →
• Face authentication unlocked the tablet. tree →
• Never share an authentication code with anyone, even a friend. tree →
• The museum sent the old letter for authentication. tree →
• Experts did an authentication of the painting and found it was real. tree →
• Your password is one kind of authentication. tree →

Note

Usually uncountable: «authentication», not «an authentication» (though experts may say «an authentication» of one item). Verb: authenticate. Adjective: authentic (real, genuine). Safety trap: a message asking for your authentication code is almost always a scam.