What is the first check performed in the authentication flow used by Salesforce?

In the authentication flow used by Salesforce, the first check performed is based on the login hours set in the user’s profile. This is crucial because Salesforce allows administrators to define login hours to control when users can access the system. If a user tries to log in outside of the specified hours, the system will deny access even before checking other parameters, such as IP range or authentication tokens. This initial check helps enforce security policies that align with the organization’s operational requirements.

By having a restriction on login hours, Salesforce ensures that user access is managed effectively, which is vital for maintaining the integrity and security of the organization’s data and resources. Thus, it sets a foundational layer of security before other checks are performed regarding IP range, authentication tokens, or interactions with connected applications.