Access Control

TL/DR: Access control is a system that manages who can enter physical spaces or access digital resources based on identity or role.

What is Access Control?

Access control is a system used to manage who can enter or access specific places, information, or systems. It works by setting rules that allow or block people or devices from gaining access based on their identity or role. Access control is used in both physical spaces, like buildings or rooms, and digital environments, like computer networks or data storage systems. For example, in a workplace, employees may use keycards to enter areas, while in digital systems, they might use passwords or other authentication methods to access files or programs.

How Does Access Control Work

Access control works by setting up rules and processes to determine who is allowed to access specific resources or areas, and it enforces those rules by identifying users or devices and verifying their permissions. Here's how it operates:

1. Identification: The system identifies who or what is trying to access a resource. This could be through a username, keycard, biometric scan, or other forms of identification. The system recognizes the individual or device attempting to gain access.
2. Authentication: After identification, the system verifies that the identity is correct. This could involve entering a password, scanning a fingerprint, or using multi-factor authentication like a code sent to a phone.
3. Authorization: Once the identity is authenticated, the system checks what level of access the person or device has. This involves consulting a set of rules or permissions to decide whether they can proceed.
4. Access: If the person or device is authorized, they are granted access to the requested resource or area. If not, access is denied.

Types of Access Control

There are several types of access control systems, each designed to manage who can access specific resources or areas. Here are the main types:

Discretionary Access Control (DAC): In this system, the owner of the resource or data decides who can access it. Permissions are assigned by the owner, who controls the resource.

Mandatory Access Control (MAC): This system uses predefined security policies to determine access. The system enforces access rules based on classifications, and users cannot grant or modify access.

Role-Based Access Control (RBAC): In RBAC, access permissions are assigned based on the role of the user within an organization. Users are given access to resources according to their job functions, and the system grants the permissions associated with their role.

Attribute-Based Access Control (ABAC): This system uses attributes (such as time, location, user identity, or device type) to control access. ABAC evaluates these attributes to decide whether to allow access based on a combination of factors.

Rule-Based Access Control: This type operates using a set of rules determined by the organization. The rules may depend on factors like time of day or location, allowing or denying access based on these conditions.

How to Implement Access Control

Implementing access control involves setting up systems to manage and regulate who can access specific areas or resources. This includes identifying users, verifying their credentials, and granting permissions based on predefined rules or roles. 

Integration with Coram’s platform links access control with features like real-time monitoring, gun detection, and automated threat alerts. Coram’s solutions connect with existing IP camera systems, creating a unified approach to managing security across physical spaces and digital environments.