What does the authentication of a record establish?

The authentication of a record primarily establishes its baseline trustworthiness. This process involves verifying that the record is genuine, unaltered, and accurate. Authentication serves as a fundamental safeguard in both legal and operational settings, ensuring that any data or documentation can be relied upon as original and authentic. By confirming the integrity of a record, stakeholders can trust the information it contains and make informed decisions based on it.

While the other options mention aspects that may relate indirectly to records and their management, they do not fundamentally capture the significance of authentication. For instance, the type of electronic operating system used or the identity of a notarizing individual might be relevant in specific contexts, but they do not define the trustworthiness of the record itself. Moreover, the relative significance of a record may vary based on its content and context, but that does not directly connect to the authentication process. Therefore, establishing baseline trustworthiness through authentication is essential in both legal frameworks and data management practices.