When cataloging a database for remote access, the authentication type may be specified in the database directory entry.
For databases accessed using DB2 Connect: If a value is not specified, SERVER authentication is assumed.
For databases accessed remotely but not using DB2 Connect: The authentication type is not required. However, if it is not specified the client must first contact the server to obtain the value before beginning the authentication flow. If specified, authentication can begin immediately provided the value specified matches that at the server. If a mismatch is detected: DB2 attempts to recover, which may result in more flows to reconcile the difference, or in an error if DB2 cannot recover. In the case of a mismatch, the value at the server is assumed to be correct.