A CAPTCHA-BASED GRAPHICAL PASSWORD AUTHENTICATION SYSTEM FOR SECURE WEB APPLICATIONS

Authentication remains a critical component of modern cybersecurity systems, yet traditional alphanumeric passwords continue to present significant usability and security challenges. Users often struggle to create and remember strong passwords, resulting in weak authentication practices and increased vulnerability to attacks such as brute force, phishing, and credential reuse. This study proposes the design and implementation of a CAPTCHA-based graphical password authentication system that leverages human cognitive strengths in image recognition. The system integrates image-based CAPTCHA mechanisms into the authentication process, allowing users to interact with visual elements instead of relying solely on textual passwords. The proposed system was developed using web technologies and evaluated based on usability and resistance to automated attacks. By combining CAPTCHA with graphical password techniques, the system demonstrates improved resistance to bot-based attacks while maintaining user-friendly interaction. This work contributes to the field of authentication security by presenting an alternative approach that enhances both usability and security, aligning authentication mechanisms with human memory capabilities. The findings suggest that CAPTCHA-based graphical authentication systems can serve as a viable complement or replacement for traditional password systems in modern web applications.