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2.1.2. Authentication vs. Authorization
💡 First Principle: Authentication proves who you are; authorization determines what you can do. These are separate but sequential processes—authorization always requires prior authentication.
| Concept | Question Answered | Azure Implementation |
|---|---|---|
| Authentication | "Who are you?" | Microsoft Entra ID, MFA, Certificates |
| Authorization | "What can you do?" | Azure RBAC, Conditional Access, Azure Policy |
Visual: Authentication and Authorization Flow
⚠️ Exam Trap: Confusing authentication with authorization. A user may successfully authenticate (prove their identity) but still be denied access because they lack the required role assignments (authorization).
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Written byAlvin Varughese
Founder•20 professional certifications