This page provides a comparison of different access control mechanisms. Access control is crucial for ensuring the security and integrity of systems and data.
Types of Access Control
Discretionary Access Control (DAC)
- DAC allows the owner of a resource to control access to that resource.
- It is based on the principle of least privilege.
- Example: The owner of a file can decide who can read, write, or execute the file.
Mandatory Access Control (MAC)
- MAC is based on security labels and is enforced by the operating system.
- It is more restrictive than DAC.
- Example: In a military system, files may be labeled as "Top Secret" or "Confidential", and only authorized users can access them.
Role-Based Access Control (RBAC)
- RBAC assigns permissions based on roles within an organization.
- It simplifies the management of access control.
- Example: A user with the role of "Manager" may have access to sensitive data that is not available to other roles.
Comparison Table
| Access Control Type | Ownership | Flexibility | Complexity |
|---|---|---|---|
| DAC | Yes | High | Low |
| MAC | No | Low | High |
| RBAC | No | Medium | Medium |
Further Reading
For more information on access control, you can visit our Access Control Overview page.
Access Control Diagram