mid.NET Core
What is authentication vs authorization?
Updated Apr 28, 2026
Short answer
Authentication verifies identity; authorization determines access rights.
Deep explanation
Authentication ensures the user is who they claim to be, while authorization checks if the user has permission to access resources.
Real-world example
Role-based access control in APIs.
Common mistakes
- Mixing authentication and authorization concepts.
Follow-up questions
- What is JWT?
- What is policy-based authorization?