Answer The Following Questions Based On This Scenario 056484

Answer The Following Questions Based On This Scenario problem Write A

Answer the following questions based on this scenario. Problem: Write a program that reads 10 username and password values into parallel arrays. After the arrays have been loaded, the program should behave like a login screen, prompting for a username and a password. Based on the data read and stored in the arrays, the program should respond appropriately with one of three output messages: “Username not found,” “Username and password does not match,” or “Access granted.” Question 1: Would you write this program asking a user to enter the usernames and passwords or would you use a file that contains all the username and passwords as input? Explain why you would choose one over the other. Question 2: Will your answer remain the same if the number of username and password values change to 40, and why?

Paper For Above instruction

Answer The Following Questions Based On This Scenario problem Write A

The development of login systems often involves decisions regarding how user credentials are input and stored within a program. The choice between prompting users to directly enter their usernames and passwords or loading these credentials from a file hinges on factors such as security, scalability, and convenience. This paper elaborates on these considerations, providing a reasoned stance for each scenario, and discusses how the number of credentials affects the decision-making process.

Question 1: User Input vs. File Input for Small-Scale Authentication

When designing a simple login system with a fixed and small number of user credentials (such as ten username-password pairs), it can be practical to store these credentials directly within the program or prompt the administrator to input them during runtime. For example, hardcoding these credentials into the code or entering them manually during setup is straightforward and minimizes complexity. Conversely, using a file that contains all the username and password pairs allows for easier updates and maintenance, especially if the credentials need to be changed frequently or managed externally. For small datasets, a file input may seem like overkill; however, it offers better organization, security options (with encryption), and scalability even in small setups.

Choosing input from the user directly—such as prompting the administrator or developer during program initialization—can be suitable in controlled environments where credentials rarely change. It simplifies the process, eliminating the need to parse files, and makes testing and debugging easier. But, this approach is less flexible and less secure when multiple or external users are involved. Conversely, reading credentials from a file can automate the process, facilitate batch updates, and support best practices in managing sensitive data with proper security measures.

Question 2: Impact of Increasing Credential Count from 10 to 40

If the number of username and password pairs increases from ten to forty, the approach to input and storage warrants reconsideration. For larger datasets, manual input or hardcoded credentials become impractical due to the increased effort and the risk of errors. Automating the data input via reading from a file becomes more advantageous; it allows for easier bulk management, dynamic updates, and integration with other data systems. Furthermore, scalability considerations become critical as the list of credentials expands, requiring efficient storage and retrieval mechanisms.

Therefore, while first establishing the method based on initial small-scale needs, the approach should adapt as the dataset grows. For 40 credentials, utilizing an external file for storage simplifies maintenance, enhances security (with encryption or hashing), and supports future scalability. The program can then efficiently process larger amounts of data without being bogged down by manual entry or hardcoded data, aligning with best practices in software scalability and security.

Conclusion

In conclusion, for small-scale scenarios involving a limited number of credentials, prompting for user input within the program may suffice for simplicity and control. However, storing credentials in a file provides better management and scalability even at small sizes. When considering larger datasets, such as 40 credentials, a file-based approach becomes increasingly necessary to streamline data management, maintain security, and support scalability. The decision ultimately depends on the size and complexity of the user base, security requirements, and future growth expectations.

References

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