Database Authentication | Complete Guide to User Identity Verification & Security

Authentication

Authentication is the process of verifying the identity of a user or system trying to access a database. It ensures that only legitimate users with valid credentials can connect to the DBMS.

Purpose

• To verify the user’s identity before granting access.
• To prevent unauthorized access and protect sensitive data.
• To maintain accountability, ensuring every action in the DB can be traced to a verified user.

How Authentication Works

1. User Identification: The user provides a username (or user ID).

2. Verification: The system checks the provided password, token, or biometric data against stored credentials.

3. Access Decision:

   • If credentials match → Access is granted.
   • If credentials fail → Access is denied and possibly logged.

Common Authentication Methods

Method	Description
Password-based	Most common; user enters username & password stored securely (hashed/salted).
Token-based	Uses one-time passwords (OTPs), smart cards, or security tokens.
Biometric	Uses fingerprint, iris, or face recognition systems.
Multi-Factor (MFA)	Combines two or more methods for stronger security (e.g., password + OTP).
Database-level Authentication	Managed by DBMS itself (e.g., MySQL CREATE USER, GRANT).
External Authentication	Delegated to OS or LDAP systems (e.g., Kerberos, Active Directory).

In DBMS Context

Database systems like MySQL, Oracle, and PostgreSQL support multiple authentication types:

-- Example in MySQL
CREATE USER 'akash'@'localhost' IDENTIFIED BY 'secure_pass123';
GRANT ALL PRIVILEGES ON portfolio_db.* TO 'akash'@'localhost';
FLUSH PRIVILEGES;

This ensures only authenticated users can connect and perform operations.