Definition:
Authorization is the process of granting or denying access to resources based on a user's authenticated identity and assigned permissions. It controls what actions an authenticated user can perform within a system.
Use Cases:
- Used in role-based access control (RBAC) systems to assign permissions based on user roles.
- Applied in cloud services to manage user access to resources like virtual machines and databases.
Related Terms:
- Authentication
- Access Control
- Role-Based Access Control (RBAC)
- Privilege Management
Questions and Answers:
- What is the difference between authentication and authorization?
Authentication ensures that a user is who they claim to be, while authorization determines what that user is allowed to do within the system.
- How is authorization typically implemented?
Authorization is typically implemented through policies and role-based access control mechanisms that define user permissions based on their role in the organization.
- Why is authorization important in securing sensitive data?
Authorization ensures that only authorized personnel can access sensitive data, minimizing the risk of data breaches or misuse. An organization with a strong security will have differing levels of authorization based on the employee’s role to decrease the chances of unauthorized access to the system.