Abstract: AFIS is regarded as one of the greatest advancements in biometric systems as it enables fast and efficient identification of an individual by their distinct fingerprint designs. This system employs the use of digital imaging, finger-power techniques and other technologies in the storage and comparison of fingerprints. With AFIS, fingerprint images are all digitized making it easier to carry out crime investigations, border control and general identification of persons. The strength of AFIS systems is evidenced by the increased accuracy levels along with the capacity to accommodate numerous records and still allow for fast searches by fingerprinting matching to existing images for law enforcement on file. Some problems nevertheless persist which include the quality of fingerprints and environmental interferences, however machine learning and artificial intelligence improvements are still being incorporated into the systems to make them work even better. This paper investigates the system architecture and components, operational aspects, and prospects for development of the AFIS technology, which is essential in contemporary informational security