User authentication is the process of verifying the identity of an individual attempting to access a system, network, or application. This is typically done by validating credentials provided by the user, such as passwords, biometrics (fingerprints, facial recognition), security tokens, or one-time codes. The goal of user authentication is to ensure that only authorized users can gain access to sensitive data and resources, protecting against unauthorized access and potential security breaches. Effective user authentication mechanisms are a critical component of maintaining robust data security and safeguarding organizational assets.