Authentication vs Authorization in ASP.NET Core Middleware
In the world of web application development, particularly when building secure and robust APIs with ASP.NET Core, the terms authentication and authorization are often used interchangeably. However, they represent two distinct and crucial security concepts. Understanding their differences and how they are implemented within the ASP.NET Core middleware pipeline is fundamental for any developer serious about security.
This article will demystify authentication and authorization, explore their implementation in ASP.NET Core, and highlight where middleware fits into this security puzzle.
Authentication vs. Authorization: A Clear Distinction
At its core, the difference between authentication and authorization is straightforward:
Authentication is about identity. It’s the process of verifying that a user is who they claim to be. This is typically achieved by validating credentials like a username and password, a biometric scan, or a security token. In essence, authentication answers the question: “Who are you?”
Authorization is about permissions. Once a user’s identity has been authenticated, authorization determines what actions they are allowed to perform. It’s the process of granting or denying access to specific resources or functionalities. Authorization answers the question: “What are you allowed to do?”
Think of it like attending a conference. When you arrive, you show your ticket and a photo ID to the registration desk. This is …
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