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What are the common technologies for digital identity authentication?

Created on 2025-09-24 18:23:02
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Common technologies for digital identity authentication include:

  1. Passwords (Knowledge-Based Authentication)

    • The most traditional method, where users enter a secret credential (e.g., a password or PIN).
    • Example: Logging into an email account with a username and password.
    • Security Note: Weak passwords are vulnerable to brute-force attacks.

  2. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

    • Combines two or more verification factors: something you know (password), something you have (a smartphone or security token), or something you are (biometrics).
    • Example: A banking app requiring a password + a one-time code sent to your phone.
    • Cloud Recommendation: Tencent Cloud offers CAM (Cloud Access Management) with MFA support for enhanced account security.

  3. Biometric Authentication

    • Uses unique physical characteristics like fingerprints, facial recognition, or iris scans.
    • Example: Unlocking a smartphone with a fingerprint or Face ID.
    • Cloud Recommendation: Tencent Cloud provides FaceID and biometric verification APIs for secure user authentication.

  4. Digital Certificates & Public Key Infrastructure (PKI)

    • Relies on cryptographic keys issued by a trusted Certificate Authority (CA) to verify identities.
    • Example: HTTPS websites using SSL/TLS certificates to secure connections.
    • Cloud Recommendation: Tencent Cloud SSL Certificates Service helps deploy trusted digital certificates.

  5. Single Sign-On (SSO)

    • Allows users to access multiple applications with one set of login credentials.
    • Example: Logging into Google Workspace and automatically accessing Gmail, Drive, and Docs.
    • Cloud Recommendation: Tencent Cloud supports SSO integration for enterprise identity management.

  6. OAuth & OpenID Connect

    • OAuth is an authorization framework (e.g., "Sign in with Google"), while OpenID Connect adds authentication.
    • Example: Logging into a third-party app using your Facebook or Apple ID.
    • Cloud Recommendation: Tencent Cloud API Gateway supports OAuth for secure access control.

  7. Hardware Tokens & Smart Cards

    • Physical devices (e.g., USB security keys or RFID cards) that generate one-time codes.
    • Example: YubiKey for securing online accounts.

Each method has trade-offs between security, usability, and cost. For cloud-based solutions, Tencent Cloud’s CAM, biometric APIs, and SSL services provide robust identity management options.