Factors of Password-based Authentication

Organizations continue to rely on password-based authentication methods to control access to many Web-based systems. This research study developed a benchmarking instrument intended to assess authentication methods used in Web-based information systems (IS. This approach explored how authentication practices can be measured in three component areas: 1) password strength requirements, 2) password usage methods, and 3) password reset requirements. This report explores the criteria that are required to define these component areas.