What Are The 3 Types of Access Control in Security?

Access control is a security process which allows organizations or business owners to set specific restrictions of access to areas on a property, or resources. While most every modern access control system will use all three of these access permission types, it’s still important to understand how these settings work and what they’re meant to do.

Most businesses secure the front, back, or side entrances to a building in addition to exterior security or security areas located within a building. Additionally, access controls can be leveraged to improve the security of digital assets or resources. Admins control access based on authentication such as user, role, or the specific resource.

When referencing a physical access control system, also known as an electronic access control system (EAC), they are used to replace the need for a traditional lock and key. Gaining access to a door, a medical cabinet, server rack or any other restricted area is controlled by a key card, key fob or mobile phone being placed in front of a card reader.

The admin of the system controls who has access through what doors and at what times. In addition, audit trail capabilities allow the admin to know exactly who accessed what space and when. Along with remote capabilities to lock/unlock doors with a touch of a button, many businesses are turning in their traditional locks and keys to shift to an easier, more secure method of controlling access to their building.

The 3 types of access control are Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) systems, Attribute-Based Access Control (ABAC) and Discretionary Access Control (DAC). Each of the three access control types can be leveraged to ensure that your property and data is secure.

Administrators may use the Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) model to allow or restrict access to certain areas based on the organization’s roles. Using RBAC, an administration can specify and define roles, as well as determining which areas a role needs access to. Once the roles are defined, each user is assigned a role which will give them the permissions to access areas where they can do their job or operate. With RBAC, a user can be included into different assigned groups, but can only be given one role.

This method is a great choice for many small to medium sized businesses because an owner can select who has access to what areas and when, and creating groups from 2 to 200 employees is a simple and effective way to control access to the entire business.

Attribute-based access control systems can be seen as a contrasting technique compared to RBAC. ABAC leverages multiple attributes to users and resources alike, which can be seen as more complex for administrators, but this gives the admin more control over increasing risks. With attribute-based access control, a user can only access a resource with corresponding attributes.

Attributes can include a security clearance level, job title, file types, or even an accessible location & specific time of day. This technique allows for an admin of an organization or business owner to create security policies that change in preference of a business’ needs and requirement, while ensuring a high-level of security and adaptability. While the setup process of ABAC security policies can take administrators more time than other security techniques, it is primarily for growing, or dynamic teams.

Discretionary access control sets access rights specified by an administrator’s rules. With this access control model, every resource must have an admin or owner to specify whom can access it, and at what level. The DAC model allows admins and resource owners to select users at different levels using what’s called an access control list (ACL).

The access control list will define which level to give user permission to any resource. Due to its nature, the DAC model is easy to understand and use, so long as users and roles are correctly listed in the access control list. Administrators or owners can add or remove permissions, making it simple to define who can access what data, or sensitive areas on your organization’s property.

This method gives owners full control of their system but requires more manual updates and changes from the admin.

Access control can be specific for access to physical resources, as well as digital resources. As mentioned earlier, permissions and roles can be attributed to digital resources and assets, such as file types and other sensitive digital information. Having security for your physical assets, in addition to your digital assets, is becoming paramount to a complete security system.

When authentication of users’ access to resources is required, you add an additional level of security by leveraging identity management and access control together – creating a perfect access management system.

As businesses and estates may need to use access control to protect their data, personal items, or high-level information, The Flying Locksmiths leverages DAC & RBAC access control models. The Flying Locksmiths also provide and install the security infrastructure necessary to take advantage of these access control models; such as biometric access control systems, card & keypad systems, smart locks, key fob access systems, and more.

The Flying Locksmiths believe that remote access control systems are the perfect security system for most businesses and facilities. Using remote access control systems, we can leverage server-based or cloud-based access control software, giving you customizability with your alarm locks, card & keypad, or biometric access systems. Our access control installation service ensures you can retain control over your business and who has access. Control access to your business today, with The Flying Locksmiths!