Access Control

Access control is a fundamental security technique that regulates who or what can view or use resources in a computing environment. It is a critical concept for protecting physical and digital assets, from buildings and rooms to data files and networks.

The process involves two key stages: authentication (verifying a user's identity, e.g., with a password or biometric scan) and authorization (granting specific permissions to access certain resources). Common models include:

Discretionary Access Control (DAC): Where the resource owner sets permissions.
Role-Based Access Control (RBAC): Where access is granted based on a user's role within an organization.
Mandatory Access Control (MAC): A strict, hierarchical model often used in government and military settings.

By ensuring only authorized individuals have appropriate access, these systems enforce the principle of least privilege, which is essential for maintaining confidentiality, integrity, and availability.