Password Authentication Protocol (PAP) Glossary Definition

Password Authentication Protocol (PAP) is the most basic form of authentication in which a user's name and password are transmitted over a network and compared to a table of name-password pairs. The basic authentication feature built into the HTTP protocol uses PAP.

In security and compliance work, this term helps teams describe controls, risks, identity practices, standards, audits, or protective technologies. It is relevant when managing access, reducing exposure, documenting safeguards, or demonstrating accountability.