What is Authentication in ASP.NET Core? See Example

Authentication in ASP.NET Core is the process of verifying user identity. It ensures that only authorized users can access resources. ASP.NET Core supports multiple authentication methods like Cookies, JWT (JSON Web Tokens), OAuth, and ASP.NET Core Identity.

Key Features:

• Supports cookie-based, JWT, and external authentication
• Integrates with ASP.NET Core Identity for user management
• Configurable authentication schemes and policies
• Works with MVC, Razor Pages, and APIs
• Enhances security and access control

Example:
Configure cookie authentication in Program.cs:

builder.Services.AddAuthentication("MyCookieAuth")
    .AddCookie("MyCookieAuth", options =>
    {
        options.LoginPath = "/Account/Login";
        options.AccessDeniedPath = "/Account/AccessDenied";
    });

var app = builder.Build();
app.UseAuthentication();
app.UseAuthorization();

Controller requiring authentication:

[Authorize]
public IActionResult Dashboard()
{
    return View();
}

Authentication in ASP.NET Core secures applications, ensuring only verified users can access protected resources.

Citations:

• Learn more on Savanka
• Official ASP.NET Core Documentation