Workbook on Digital Private Papers > Glossary
Glossary - A
Authentication
Most digital archives are likely to have an authentication system in place, by which users (whether repository staff or researchers) gain access to the digital repository and its content. Different levels of access will be required according to:
- The type of user.
- The type of action to be carried out: archivists may be authorised to carry out preservation actions on digital archive material while researchers will not be permitted to alter archival documents.
- The type of material concerned: different legislative requirements, like IPR, will apply to different types of record, and will determine what actions can be carried out in relation to the records.
A combination of authentication methods can be used to achieve different layers of access and security. Examples of different methods include: a system which requires a username and password to log in or perform specified actions; a system based on permitting access by means of computers' unique Media Access Control (MAC) addresses or network-based Internet Protocol (IP) addresses; and, at the human level, a member of repository staff may have to assess all applications for access and add credentials to the system. Authentication is essential in ensuring that the authenticity and integrity of digital archives are maintained in the long term. It has analogies in the traditional archive environment, where researchers may have to go through a registration process before accessing archive material, or provide a letter of reference before consulting particularly rare or valuable items.
