Log On (Log In)

Establishing a connection from a terminal to a computer and identifying oneself as an authorized user.

Definition

Log On (Log In): The process of establishing a connection from a terminal, workstation, or other computing device to a computer system or network, followed by the authentication of the user as an authorized individual. This authentication typically involves the input of credentials such as a username and password.

Examples

  1. Personal Computer Login: When you start your personal computer and are prompted to input your username and password to access the desktop environment.

  2. Online Banking: Accessing your bank account online by entering your user ID and password to authenticate yourself before viewing your account information.

  3. Corporate Network Access: Employees logging on to a company’s internal network by entering their credentials to access work-related software and data.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the difference between “Log On” and “Log In”?

The terms “Log On” and “Log In” are often used interchangeably, both referring to the process of connecting to a computer system using credentials. However, some might use “Log On” when referring specifically to systems or networks, and “Log In” for accessing websites or applications.

What happens if I forget my password?

Most systems provide a “Forgot Password” feature that allows users to reset their password by verifying their identity through means such as email, security questions, or SMS verification.

Is it safe to log in on public Wi-Fi?

Logging in on public Wi-Fi can be risky due to potential security vulnerabilities. It is recommended to use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) for safer connections.

Why does my computer log me out automatically?

Automatic logouts are a security feature designed to protect your account from unauthorized access by terminating inactive sessions after a certain period.

Can I use the same password for multiple accounts?

It is not advisable to use the same password for multiple accounts due to the increased risk of multiple accounts being compromised if one password is discovered.

  • Authentication: The process of verifying the identity of a user, device, or other entity in a computer system.

  • Authorization: The process of determining what a user is allowed to do after they have been authenticated.

  • Credentials: Information used to authenticate a user, typically comprising a username and password.

  • Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): An additional layer of security requiring not only a password and username but also something that only the user has on them.

  • Session Timeout: A security feature that logs a user out after a period of inactivity to protect against unauthorized access.

Online References

Suggested Books for Further Studies

  • “Computer Security Basics” by Rick Lehtinen and Deborah Russell
  • “Security in Computing” by Charles P. Pfleeger and Shari Lawrence Pfleeger
  • “Cryptography and Network Security: Principles and Practice” by William Stallings
  • “Cybersecurity for Dummies” by Joseph Steinberg

Fundamentals of Log On (Log In): Cybersecurity Basics Quiz

### Which term is used interchangeably with "Log On"? - [ ] Log Out - [x] Log In - [ ] Sign Up - [ ] Sign Off > **Explanation:** "Log On" and "Log In" are often used interchangeably and both refer to the process of accessing a computer system using credentials. ### What information is typically required to log on to a system? - [ ] Birthday and name - [x] Username and password - [ ] Social security number and email - [ ] Address and phone number > **Explanation:** Typically, logging on to a system requires the input of a username and a password to authenticate the user. ### What is an added security measure alongside a password called? - [ ] Single Factor Authentication - [ ] Password Salt - [x] Two-Factor Authentication - [ ] Password Encryption > **Explanation:** Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) is an added security measure that requires both a password and an additional factor to verify user identity. ### Why is it risky to log in on public Wi-Fi? - [ ] Because networks are slower - [ ] Due to password complexity - [x] Due to potential security vulnerabilities - [ ] Because it’s difficult to authenticate > **Explanation:** Logging in on public Wi-Fi can be risky due to the potential security vulnerabilities that make it easier for attackers to intercept data. ### What feature automatically logs a user out after a period of inactivity? - [ ] Auto Login - [ ] Two-Factor Authentication - [ ] Session Persistence - [x] Session Timeout > **Explanation:** Session Timeout is the security feature that logs a user out after a period of inactivity to prevent unauthorized access. ### Logging onto a corporate network typically requires what? - [ ] Personal identification number - [ ] WIFI Name - [x] Credentials such as username and password - [ ] IP Address > **Explanation:** Logging onto a corporate network typically requires credentials such as a username and password for authentication. ### What is a general term for the information used to log on to a system? - [ ] Tokens - [ ] Encryption keys - [x] Credentials - [ ] Security codes > **Explanation:** Credentials refer to the information used to authenticate a user, usually comprising a username and password. ### How can users reset their password if they forget it? - [ ] Contacting a network technician only - [x] Using the "Forgot Password" feature - [ ] Simply logging out and logging back in - [ ] Restarting the device > **Explanation:** Most systems provide a "Forgot Password" feature that allows users to reset their passwords by verifying their identity. ### What is the primary risk of using the same password for multiple accounts? - [ ] Complexity - [x] Increased risk of multiple account compromises - [ ] Inactivity - [ ] Lagging systems > **Explanation:** Using the same password for multiple accounts increases the risk of multiple accounts being compromised if one password is discovered. ### Who generally guides the standards for secure login practices? - [ ] Freelancers - [x] Organizations like NIST - [ ] Local libraries - [ ] Media companies > **Explanation:** Standards for secure login practices are commonly guided by organizations such as NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology).

Thank you for exploring the crucial aspects of logging on (logging in) and testing your understanding with our quiz. Stay secure and vigilant in safeguarding your digital presence!


Wednesday, August 7, 2024

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