API authentication policies

---
title: API authentication policies
description: Authentication policies evaluate authentication requests based on the specified policy conditions and either allow or deny access depending on the matching criteria.
locale: en-US
canonical_url: https://www.servicenow.com/docs/r/platform-security/authentication/api-authentication-policies.html
release: brazil
product: Authentication
classification: authentication
topic_type: concept
last_updated: "2026-09-10"
reading_time_minutes: 1
breadcrumb: [API access policy, Authentication, Access Management]
---

# API authentication policies

Authentication policies evaluate authentication requests based on the specified policy conditions and either allow or deny access depending on the matching criteria.

You can use the built-in Global Blocking Policy or create an authentication policy according to your security requirements. Global Blocking Policy denies the authentication requests of users and APIs based on the specified filter criteria.

**Note:** Do not use or modify Allow Access Policy and Deny Access Policy. These policies are meant only for user logins.