Description: Controlled access is a fundamental security measure that restricts access to systems, data, or facilities only to authorized users. This practice is based on the implementation of policies and technologies that ensure that only those individuals who meet certain authentication and authorization criteria can access specific resources. The main features of controlled access include user identification, authentication through passwords, biometrics, or tokens, and authorization that determines which resources each user can utilize. The relevance of controlled access lies in its ability to protect sensitive information and maintain the integrity of systems, especially in a digital environment where cyber threats are increasingly sophisticated. In various security contexts, controlled access is crucial to ensure that only the appropriate personnel have access to critical data and incident response tools. Likewise, in security orchestration, it allows the integration of various security solutions, ensuring that each component operates within a defined security framework. Automation and response also benefit from controlled access, as it allows automated actions to be executed only by users with the necessary permissions, minimizing the risk of errors or abuses.
History: The concept of controlled access has its roots in the need to protect sensitive information, dating back to the early computing systems of the 1960s. With the development of networks and computer systems, more sophisticated methods emerged to manage who could access what information. In 1970, the role-based access control (RBAC) model was introduced, allowing for more granular management of user permissions. As technology advanced, so did authentication techniques, including the use of passwords, access cards, and more recently, biometrics. The evolution of controlled access has been driven by the increasing concern for information security and the need to comply with regulations such as GDPR and HIPAA.
Uses: Controlled access is used in a variety of contexts, including corporate environments, information systems, physical facilities, and cloud applications. In businesses, it is implemented to protect sensitive data and ensure that only authorized personnel can access critical information. In the healthcare sector, it is used to comply with regulations that protect patient privacy. In physical security, it is applied in controlling access to buildings and restricted areas through the use of magnetic cards or biometric systems. Additionally, in the cloud, controlled access is essential for managing who can access resources and data stored on various platforms.
Examples: An example of controlled access is the use of multi-factor authentication (MFA) in online platforms, where users must provide not only a password but also a code sent to their mobile phone. Another example is the use of access cards in corporate buildings, where only authorized employees can enter restricted areas. In the healthcare sector, electronic medical records use controlled access to ensure that only authorized medical personnel can view patient information.
