What does a biometric system compare during authentication?

A biometric system focuses on the unique physical characteristics of an individual to authenticate identity. During the authentication process, it captures scans of these characteristics—such as fingerprints, facial recognition, iris patterns, or voice characteristics—and compares them against a pre-stored template. This template is created during an initial registration process, wherein the user’s unique biometric data is recorded and saved securely.

The accuracy and security of a biometric system rely on the distinctiveness of these physical traits, making it challenging to forge or replicate. As a result, biometrics are often deemed a highly secure form of identification compared to traditional methods.

Other options, such as typed passwords, location data, or behavior patterns, do not fall within the scope of biometric systems. Typed passwords rely on user input rather than inherent physical traits, while location-based access and user behavior patterns are related to different aspects of authentication and security monitoring.