Microsoft® Windows® Security: Essentials

Chapter 3

Understanding User Authentication

One of the primary methods of ensuring security is to restrict access to known users. This requires users to authenticate themselves, or prove their identity by providing some type of credentials. Authentication is commonly classified using three types, or three factors of authentication: something you know, something you have, and something you are. It’s important to understand these factors, including their strengths and weaknesses and how they can be used together to enhance security.

Passwords are the most common method used to authenticate. It’s important to know what a strong password is and how to create one. Windows Server 2008 includes many tools you can use to ensure that users follow best ...