Performance analysis of biometric recognition modalities

With the increasing concern over information security, the demand for effective biometric recognition modalities has increased. In addition, more biometric recognition modalities are currently under development. This paper overviews and compares several biometric recognition technologies such as finger-scan, facial scan, retinal scan, hand geometry, and signature authentication. Some of the continuing challenges for biometric modalities are to provide accurate results within an acceptable time limit and to define the environment in which the technology provides the strongest benefit to individuals and institutions. For the security officer, the challenge is to demonstrate to upper management that the benefits of implementation outweigh its risks and costs. Among the reviewed techniques, some recognition techniques were found to have high accuracy at varying costs, while the DNA modality was found to be the most secure technique and most expensive.