Description: Decision-making in access control systems involves evaluating access requests against defined policies. Security-Enhanced Linux (SELinux) is a security module that provides a mandatory access control (MAC) mechanism for Linux-based operating systems. Its main goal is to enhance system security by restricting access to system resources based on predefined security policies. Each time a process attempts to access a resource, SELinux evaluates the request based on the rules set in its policy, determining whether to allow or deny access. This approach enables system administrators to define granularly who can do what on the system, which is crucial for protecting sensitive data and preventing unauthorized access. The flexibility of SELinux allows it to be tailored to different environments and security needs, making it a valuable tool for organizations looking to strengthen their security posture. Furthermore, decision-making in SELinux is not only based on the user or process making the request but also on the context in which the request is made, adding an additional layer of control and security.
History: SELinux was developed by the United States National Security Agency (NSA) in 2000 as part of an effort to enhance the security of Linux systems. Its design is based on the concept of mandatory access control, which differs from traditional discretionary access control. Over the years, SELinux has evolved and been integrated into many Linux distributions, becoming a de facto standard for security in Linux systems.
Uses: SELinux is primarily used in environments where security is a priority, such as web servers, databases, and critical systems. It allows administrators to define security policies that control access to files, processes, and other system resources, helping to prevent attacks and unauthorized access.
Examples: A practical example of SELinux in action is its implementation in application servers handling sensitive data, where policies can be set to restrict access to certain files only to specific processes, thereby minimizing the risk of data exposure.
