Description: A security label in the context of security systems is an identifier assigned to objects such as files, processes, and ports to determine their access rights and the allowed interactions between them. These labels are fundamental to the mandatory access control (MAC) model that many security frameworks implement, meaning that access decisions are not solely based on traditional user permissions but are governed by defined security policies. Each object in the system has a label that describes its security context, allowing the security framework to apply specific rules that control how processes can interact with those objects. This approach provides an additional layer of security by limiting the actions a process can take, even if the user executing it has elevated privileges. Security labels are therefore an essential component for protecting critical systems, helping to prevent unauthorized access and contain potential security breaches.
History: Security frameworks that utilize security labels have been developed in response to the growing need for advanced security measures in operating systems and applications. The concept is based on mandatory access control, which originated in military and governmental environments. Over the years, these frameworks have evolved and been integrated into various operating systems, becoming standard tools for security in critical systems.
Uses: Security labels are primarily used in environments where security is a priority, such as web servers, databases, and sensitive information systems. They allow administrators to define detailed security policies that control access to system resources, helping to mitigate security risks and protect critical data.
Examples: A practical example of a security label is an access control context designated for web server files, which ensures that only the designated server process can access those files, limiting the risk of unauthorized access.
