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Access Control List

5 minutes 5 Questions

An access control list (ACL) is a data structure that stores a set of predefined access permissions for a particular resource, such as a file, directory, or network device. ACLs are commonly used to specify which users or groups of users are allowed or denied access to specific resources, as well as the types of operations they can perform on those resources. Access control lists provide a granular level of control over resource access, allowing administrators to define and manage access rights based on their organization's security requirements and policies. ACLs are a common component of various access control models, such as discretionary, mandatory, and role-based access controls, and play a crucial role in securing an organization's sensitive data and systems.

Access Control List (ACL) Guide for CISSP Exams

Definition: An Access Control List (ACL) is a list of permissions attached to an object. It is a key concept in Information Security and is often utilized to provide access control on resources in a network.

Importance: The ACL provides a means of defining who can access a resource and what actions they can perform when they are granted access. It's a critical security tool, ensuring only authorized individuals can access specific assets, thereby safeguarding sensitive information.

How ACL Works: ACL operates by having a list of conditions that are checked against the access request. If the condition on the list matches the request, the ACL permits the access; otherwise, it denies the request.

Exam Tips: When answering questions about ACL in the exam, remember to emphasize the list nature of ACLs and their function in controlling rights to resources. It's also important to understand ACL's role in both grant and deny actions.
Tip 1: Be familiar with concepts linked to ACL such as 'Implicit Deny'.
Tip 2: Know when and where ACLs are commonly used.
Tip 3: Understand the difference between discretionary and mandatory ACLs. Remember, the exam focuses not just on rote recall but understanding and application of these concepts.

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CISSP - Access Control Example Questions

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Question 1

A security administrator wants to implement an ACL on a firewall that automatically adjusts its rules based on user authentication. What type of ACL should be used?

Correct Answer: Dynamic ACL

Dynamic ACLs, also known as Lock-and-Key ACLs, are created in response to user authentication events, enabling the firewall access rules to be automatically adjusted.

Question 2

A system administrator wants to permit SSH traffic from specific IP addresses while denying all other traffic. Which of the following ACL options should be configured?

Correct Answer: Extended ACL

Extended ACLs can filter traffic based not only on the source and destination IP addresses but also on the specific protocol and port numbers, such as SSH in this case.

Question 3

A company wants to restrict access to its file server based on IP addresses. Which type of Access Control List should be implemented?

Correct Answer: Standard ACL

A Standard ACL is used to permit or deny traffic based on the source IP address, making it suitable for restricting access to the file server based on IP addresses.

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