Patent ID: 7827405

Claim:
A processor implemented method for authenticating at least one of a first entity and a second entity, the method comprising: receiving a first name indicative of the first entity; generating, via the processor, a second name indicative of the first entity, the second name comprising: an indication of the first name; and an indication of compatibility with a first authentication protocol; determining, utilizing the second name, if the first entity is compatible with the first authentication protocol, wherein determining if the first entity is compatible with the first authentication protocol comprises attempting to provide a Kerberos ticket to the first entity; when the first entity is compatible with the first authentication protocol: registering the second name in accordance with the first authentication protocol; authenticating the first entity in accordance with the first authentication protocol; and authenticating the second entity in accordance with the first authentication protocol; and when the first entity is not compatible with the first authentication protocol: authenticating the second entity in accordance with a second authentication protocol.