Describe the function of biometric authentication.

Biometric authentication is a method of verifying or identifying individuals based on their unique physiological or behavioral characteristics. It relies on the use of biological or behavioral traits that are specific to an individual and difficult to replicate. The primary purpose of biometric authentication is to enhance security by ensuring that only authorized users can access a system or facility. Here's a detailed technical explanation of how biometric authentication functions:

1. Enrollment:
   • The process begins with user enrollment, where the individual's biometric data is captured and stored in a database.
   • During enrollment, the biometric system extracts distinctive features from the chosen biometric trait, such as fingerprints, iris patterns, facial features, voice, or behavioral characteristics like typing patterns.
2. Biometric Data Capture:
   • Different biometric modalities involve specific sensors or devices to capture the relevant data.
   • For example, fingerprint scanners use capacitive or optical sensors, while iris recognition systems use cameras to capture unique iris patterns.
3. Feature Extraction:
   • Once the raw biometric data is captured, a process called feature extraction is performed to identify and isolate the unique characteristics of the individual.
   • Algorithms are applied to convert the raw data into a set of distinctive features that can be used for comparison.
4. Template Creation:
   • The extracted features are then used to create a biometric template, which is a mathematical representation of the unique traits.
   • Biometric templates are typically stored securely in a database or on a smart card.
5. Matching Process:
   • During the authentication process, the user provides a biometric sample (e.g., fingerprint, iris scan) that is captured by the system.
   • The system then extracts features from the newly provided sample and compares them with the stored template.
6. Matching Algorithm:
   • Matching algorithms play a crucial role in determining the similarity between the captured biometric sample and the stored template.
   • These algorithms use mathematical models, pattern recognition, and statistical methods to assess the level of similarity.
7. Threshold Setting:
   • A threshold is set to determine whether the level of similarity between the provided biometric sample and the stored template is sufficient for authentication.
   • If the similarity surpasses the threshold, the user is authenticated; otherwise, access is denied.
8. Authentication Decision:
   • Based on the comparison results, the system makes an authentication decision – granting or denying access.
9. Security Measures:
   • Biometric systems incorporate various security measures to protect against unauthorized access or tampering, such as encryption of biometric templates and secure storage.
10. Continuous Improvement:

• Biometric systems may employ machine learning techniques for continuous improvement and adaptation to variations in biometric traits over time.