Access Control Lists (ACLs) are a set of rules that define the permissions and restrictions for users, groups, and devices to access resources within a network. ACLs help to enforce security policies by controlling who can access specific network resources, such as servers, workstations, and router…Access Control Lists (ACLs) are a set of rules that define the permissions and restrictions for users, groups, and devices to access resources within a network. ACLs help to enforce security policies by controlling who can access specific network resources, such as servers, workstations, and routers. By implementing proper ACLs, network administrators can help prevent unauthorized access, data leakage, and safeguard sensitive information. ACLs can be configured on various levels such as routers, switches, and firewalls, offering granularity for access control. In addition, the use of ACLs can aid in segregating network segments and ensuring least privilege, which can help to reduce the attack surface and minimize the potential impact of security incidents.
Guide and Exam Tips: Access Control Lists (ACLs)
An Access Control List (ACL) is a list of permissions tied to an object. They pertain to computer security, playing a crucial role in regulating file permissions, directory permissions, and user control. In a computer file system, an ACL contains a list of accesses granted to an individual user or group of users.
Importance: ACLs serve as a key aspect of maintaining file-level security in a network environment. They provide a means for a system to regulate the reading, writing, and execution of files/directories.
How it works: ACL works by verifying each request for a particular permission (like read, write, execute) for a specific user or system process. If the ACL allows the requested action, it proceeds; otherwise, the system rejects the request.
Exam Tips: When answering an exam question on ACLs, remember to: 1. Identify the type of ACLs mentioned in the question (like standard or extended). 2. Understand the permissions before deciding on an answer. 3. Recognize that ACLs implement permissions on an individual basis or by group. 4. Remember that correctly configured ACLs can prevent unauthorized access. 5. Keep in mind that each entry in an ACL identifies a subject and an operation.
Understanding ACLs will give you a significant advantage while tackling security-based examination questions.
CompTIA Security+ - Access Control Lists (ACLs) Example Questions
Test your knowledge of Access Control Lists (ACLs)
Question 1
Which of the following ACL configurations will only allow a specific protocol (e.g. HTTP) to access an internal web server?
Question 2
A company wants to block traffic to their internal network from two known malicious IP addresses. What would be the best ACL configuration?
Question 3
A company wants to restrict access to their file server over the network. The file server should only be accessible by users on the same local network subnet. How should the ACL be configured?
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