Access control to data is essential when your business is storing confidential or proprietary information. Access control is essential for any business that has employees who are connected to the internet. The most basic definition of access control is a selective restriction of information to a specific users and in certain circumstances, explains Daniel Crowley, head of research for IBM’s X-Force Red team, which focuses on data security. There are two major components, authentication and authorization.

Authentication is the process of verifying that the person to whom you are trying to gain access is the person they claim to be. It also includes the verification of a password or other credentials that need to be provided before allowing access to a network, application or file.

Authorization is the process of granting access based on a particular job in the company like engineering, HR or marketing. Role-based access control (RBAC) is one of the most common and effective ways to limit access. This type of access involves policies that determine the required information to perform certain business tasks and assign permissions to appropriate roles.

It is easier to manage and monitor any changes when you have a policy for access control which is standard. It is crucial that policies are clearly communicated with staff to ensure that they be cautious when handling sensitive information. Also, there should be procedures in place for revoking access to Recommended Site employees who leave the company, change roles, or are terminated.