When a Web Access layer is on the left edge and a Web Authentication layer to its right, which one is evaluated first?

In this scenario, the correct answer is rooted in the architecture of how web traffic and security protocols are typically designed to operate. When evaluating layers in a network architecture, access controls and authentication mechanisms usually follow a certain sequence to ensure security and compliance.

The Web Authentication layer is primarily focused on verifying user credentials and ensuring that the user is who they claim to be before they are granted access to resources. This validation is a fundamental step because it sets the context for what the user can or cannot do after authentication. Authentication must happen prior to any access decisions to ensure that unauthorized users cannot bypass restrictions.

Once a user is authenticated, the Web Access layer can then evaluate the authenticated user's permissions against specified access policies. This sequential flow, where authentication is a prerequisite to access evaluation, underscores the process’s security integrity. If the access layer was evaluated first, it could lead to unauthorized access before confirming the legitimacy of the user.

While the specific context or implementation might differ depending on configuration or traffic type, the general networking principle remains that authentication is assessed before access permissions. This foundational security principle ensures that the system maintains robust access control to protect sensitive resources from unauthorized access.