Authentication and authorization are two core security processes that work together to protect systems and data. Authentication focuses on verifying a user's identity, while authorization defines what resources and actions that user is allowed to access. Understanding this distinction is crucial for building strong security.

A useful analogy is an airport: first, a passenger's identity is confirmed, and only then are their privileges determined – such as boarding class or lounge access. In digital systems the logic is the same. Authentication ensures users are genuine, and authorization grants specific permissions based on roles and policies. Proper configuration of both mechanisms is essential for any secure environment.