Pluggable Authentication Modules

Pluggable Authentication Modules (PAM) are a flexible system used in computers to manage user authentication. They allow the operating system to integrate various authentication methods—such as passwords, fingerprint scans, or security tokens—without changing the core system. Think of PAM as a modular toolkit where different authentication techniques can be "plugged in" or replaced easily, providing a consistent interface for verifying user identities across different applications and services. This approach enhances security, simplifies management, and enables customization based on security needs.