PAM (Pluggable Authentication Modules)

PAM, or authentication-modules">Pluggable Authentication Modules, is a framework used in computer systems to manage authentication processes like logging in. It allows system administrators to easily integrate different authentication methods—such as passwords, biometrics, or smart cards—by using interchangeable modules. This flexibility enables organizations to tailor security measures based on their specific needs without altering the core system. Essentially, PAM streamlines how users prove their identity, enhancing both security and ease of use in various applications and services.