Access Control List (ACL)
Definition:
An Access Control List (ACL) is a set of rules that determine which users or system processes are granted access to objects, as well as what operations are allowed on given objects within a system.
Use Cases:
- Applied in networking to restrict access to devices, servers, or certain services.
- Used in firewalls to specify which traffic can access internal or external networks.
Related Terms:
- Firewalls
- Packet Filtering
Questions and Answers:
- What is the difference between a standard and an extended ACL?
A standard ACL filters traffic based only on the source IP address, while an extended ACL filters based on multiple parameters such as source/destination IP, protocol type, and port numbers. Standard ACLs are best for broad rules that don’t need to be changed often while extended ACLs are best for more granular requirements. - How are ACLs implemented in modern network security systems?
ACLs are implemented at various points within routers, firewalls, and switches to control the flow of traffic and enforce network security policies. - What are some common challenges when configuring ACLs?
Common challenges include misconfigurations leading to unintended access or blocking, the complexity of managing large ACLs, and performance issues due to excessive rule sets.