holds a higher priority among other identification techniques such as passwords, keys and ID cards. Biometric systems which include fingerprint recognition, is essential as every individual has a unique fingerprint pattern. An efficient approach towards fingerprint recognition is through the implementation of image processing techniques that can be performed efficiently along with embedded systems such as FPGA for fast execution. This paper presents FPGA based architecture for fingerprint recognition by using Xilinx System Generator that efficiently implements the highly demanding image processing techniques along with crossing number method of ridge feature based technique. Moreover minutiae matching algorithm and input from sensor for real time authentication of fingerprints can further be implemented on this system.