📌 Discretionary Access Control (DAC) Summary
Discretionary Access Control, or DAC, is a method for managing access to resources like files or folders. It allows the owner of a resource to decide who can view or edit it. This approach gives users flexibility to share or restrict access based on their own preferences. DAC is commonly used in many operating systems and applications to control permissions. The system relies on the owner’s decisions rather than rules set by administrators.
🙋🏻♂️ Explain Discretionary Access Control (DAC) Simply
Imagine you have a personal locker at school. You can choose who you give a spare key to, so only those people can open it. Discretionary Access Control works in the same way, letting the owner decide who gets access to their stuff. If you change your mind, you can take the key back or give it to someone else.
📅 How Can it be used?
Use DAC in a file-sharing app to let users choose who can access or edit their documents.
🗺️ Real World Examples
In Windows operating systems, file owners can set permissions for files and folders, deciding which users can read, write or execute each file. This lets individuals control access without needing an administrator to set every rule.
A cloud storage service like Dropbox allows users to share specific files or folders with chosen people, granting them either viewing or editing rights. The user decides who gets access and what they can do.
✅ FAQ
What is Discretionary Access Control and how does it work?
Discretionary Access Control, or DAC, lets the owner of a resource like a file or folder decide who can access it and what they can do with it. If you create a document, for example, you get to choose who can read or edit it. This makes it easy for users to share things with colleagues or keep them private, all without needing an administrator to get involved.
Why might someone choose to use Discretionary Access Control?
People often choose DAC because it gives flexibility and control to the person who owns the resource. If you want to quickly share a file with a few teammates but not the whole company, DAC makes it simple. It is handy in workplaces where users need to manage their own files and decide who gets access without waiting for IT support.
Are there any downsides to using Discretionary Access Control?
While DAC is convenient, it can sometimes lead to security risks. Since users get to decide who can access their resources, they might accidentally give permission to the wrong person or forget to remove access when it is no longer needed. This can make it easier for information to be shared by mistake compared to stricter systems where administrators set the rules.
📚 Categories
🔗 External Reference Link
Discretionary Access Control (DAC) link
Ready to Transform, and Optimise?
At EfficiencyAI, we don’t just understand technology — we understand how it impacts real business operations. Our consultants have delivered global transformation programmes, run strategic workshops, and helped organisations improve processes, automate workflows, and drive measurable results.
Whether you're exploring AI, automation, or data strategy, we bring the experience to guide you from challenge to solution.
Let’s talk about what’s next for your organisation.
💡Other Useful Knowledge Cards
Fault Injection Attacks
Fault injection attacks are deliberate attempts to disrupt the normal operation of electronic devices or computer systems by introducing unexpected changes, such as glitches in power, timing, or environmental conditions. These disruptions can cause the device to behave unpredictably, often bypassing security checks or revealing sensitive information. Attackers use fault injection to exploit weaknesses in hardware or software, potentially gaining unauthorised access or control.
TLS Handshake Optimization
TLS handshake optimisation refers to improving the process where two computers securely agree on how to communicate using encryption. The handshake is the first step in setting up a secure connection, and it can add delay if not managed well. By optimising this process, websites and applications can load faster and provide a smoother experience for users while maintaining security.
Load Balancing
Load balancing is a method used to distribute work or network traffic across multiple servers or resources. Its main aim is to ensure that no single server becomes overloaded, which helps maintain performance and reliability. By sharing the workload, load balancing improves system efficiency and prevents downtime.
Cloud Migration Planning
Cloud migration planning is the process of preparing to move digital resources, such as data and applications, from existing on-premises systems to cloud-based services. This planning involves assessing what needs to be moved, choosing the right cloud provider, estimating costs, and making sure security and compliance needs are met. Careful planning helps reduce risks, avoid downtime, and ensure that business operations continue smoothly during and after the migration.
Continuous Model Training
Continuous model training is a process in which a machine learning model is regularly updated with new data to improve its performance over time. Instead of training a model once and leaving it unchanged, the model is retrained as fresh information becomes available. This helps the model stay relevant and accurate, especially when the data or environment changes.