Security best practices for access control
Only authorized users can access and interact with the network through access control security measures. If one of your company’s laptops contains sensitive information, you wouldn’t want just anyone to see it. Alternatively, you may only want certain employees or roles within the organization to have access to sensitive information.
Access control levels may come in four different ways: DAC, MAC, RBAC, and ABAC. Thus, best practices for access control security for your organization will vary based on the size of the company, the level of security, and all compliance regulations.
Access control types
There are two types of access control based on who administers the access (DAC and MAC) versus how the access is administered (RBAC and ABAC).
Discretionary Access Control (DAC)
Each user of a DAC has a certain level of access based on their role. The use of this method is best suited to smaller companies that rely on individuals to control access.
Mandatory Access Control (MAC)
Military and government agencies often use MAC systems. Using this method, a central agency approves information based on an individual’s level of responsibility. In contrast to discretionary access, no individual controls it. This makes MAC more centralized and standardized.
Role-Based Access Control (RBAC)
RBAC models provide access to data only to those who perform a particular role within an organization. Human resources administrators, for example, would require more information than a CFO; therefore, they would have access to different types of data in the network.
Attribute-Based Access Control (ABAC)
ABAC differs from the RBAC in that the role of the individual does not matter as much as a set of criteria such as the individual’s location or work shift. Multinational companies usually use this method. Different people receive information from different parts of the world at different times.
The application of access control
Control applications fall into two categories: data access control and physical control. Unless everything is fully functional, you need both. Here, you would want to manage your data. Different types of control use different types of information: access data, tags, biometrics, or a combination of these.
Control of cloud access
A company can store data on a local server (legacy systems), in the cloud, in multiple clouds, or a combination of both (hybrid). The majority of companies today store their data either in a hybrid or fully cloud-based environment. Using cloud storage for access control is more convenient and secure since it integrates easily with other software.
With cloud storage, you can easily and securely configure access control.
Using a cloud-based access security broker, an on-premises administrator can configure user access. Through this cloud-based control panel, administrators can specify who can use single sign-on (SSO) to log in to SaaS applications, such as Box or Workday.
In addition to entering passwords, users can also scan their fingerprints or badges for login access. The administrator controls access between the user’s web browser or desktop application and the SaaS cloud server by adding security layers. The administrator can allow or deny access to certain URLs or categories, such as job boards and social media.
At a more detailed level, the system administrator can allow the user to access the SaaS, but only allow them to perform certain functions. Based on whether the user is logged in through an installed application or via a web browser. You can either enable, disable, or redirect users.
Control of physical access
In brick and mortar companies, restricting access to physical facilities is still a top concern when it comes to security. It is possible to grant access to certain users. A user may gain access through a signal, keyboard, keyboard, biometrics, wireless access control, or mobile access control.
For enterprise access control, biometrics come in many types. Devices such as this store and read biological data, such as fingerprints, retina scans, or iris scans. There are different methods, each of which has its advantages and disadvantages. Consider your business needs before implementing biometrics.
During wireless access control, the user is usually prompted for a PIN. An entry barrier, such as a lock, gate, or door, communicates with the control panel, the reader, and the wireless router.
During mobile access control, the user opens a downloaded mobile application on their mobile device. The mobile application then communicates with the reader to permit access.
Best practices and advice for access management
You can use the cloud for data access management in one of two ways because:
- Using it is safer
- Good idea
- Save money
- Save time
- Makes everything fresh
The major advantage of cloud data management is its safety, as your system administrator will not have to be physically present to manage data access. Moreover, the server supports instant messaging so everything will always be up to date.
You can control physical reception with mobile apps because:
- No more foolish
- Let’s be safe
- So good
There is a greater likelihood that keys and badges will be lost, forgotten, or damaged by employees. Furthermore, you do not want the physical body to fall into the wrong hands, allowing an unauthorized person in. Additionally, your company may be interested in using biometric technology, but you will have to discuss the privacy and ethical concerns of storing and managing user data.
The removal or damage of confidential or sensitive data may result in penalties, damage to your company’s reputation, and other disadvantages. Today, access management is so important and ubiquitous in both large and small businesses alike.
