What does the term 'identification' in information security refer to?

The term 'identification' in information security specifically refers to the process of claiming who we or our networks are. This is a fundamental step in accessing a system or network, as it establishes an identity for users, devices, or systems before any further security actions can take place. Identification typically involves presenting unique identifiers, such as usernames or account numbers, which allow a system to recognize the entity attempting to gain access.

This stage is crucial because it sets the groundwork for subsequent security measures like authentication, where the claimed identity is verified against a known credential. Without proper identification, the verification process cannot take place effectively, leading to possible vulnerabilities. By understanding identification as the expression of identity in systems or networks, it becomes clear how essential it is to ensure that proper mechanisms are in place for recognizing who is attempting to interact with the system.