What is the first step in keeping unauthorized users out of a system?

The first step in keeping unauthorized users out of a system is verifying user identity through authentication procedures. Authentication is a critical security measure that ensures only legitimate users can access a system or its resources. This process may involve various methods, such as passwords, biometrics, or multi-factor authentication, where users must provide two or more verification factors to gain access.

By clearly establishing who is trying to access the system before any further protections are configured or implemented, organizations can effectively block unauthorized access right from the start. This foundational step is essential in maintaining the overall security of the system and its data.

In contrast, conducting security analytics is a reactive measure that typically comes after identifying security issues. Implementing network segmentation helps in minimizing the risk by isolating different parts of the network but relies on initial authentication controls to be effective. Regularly updating software is important for maintaining security against known vulnerabilities, but again, it does not address the need for validating user identities upfront. Thus, while all these options play significant roles in cybersecurity strategy, authentication is the primary step to prevent unauthorized access.