Final answer:
An authentication process consists of the identification step and the verification step, where a user first claims an identity and then provides credentials to confirm that identity.
Step-by-step explanation:
An authentication process typically involves two key steps: the identification step and the verification step. During the identification step, the user claims an identity, usually by providing a username or some form of identification data. Following this, the verification step occurs, where the system verifies the claimed identity by checking if the provided credentials (such as a password, security token, or biometric data) match the records in the system's database.
It's essential to understand that authentication is a mechanism ensuring that an individual accessing a system is who they claim to be. The goal is to protect the system from unauthorized access. This process is crucial in maintaining the security of systems, especially in scenarios involving confidential data or critical operations.