Access Control Matrix

Synonyms

Access matrix; ACM

Related Concepts

Access Control Models; Access Controls; Bell-LaPadula Confidentiality Model; Discretionary Access Control; Mandatory Access Control

Definition

An Access Control Matrix is a table that maps the permissions of a set of subjects to act upon a set of objects within a system. The matrix is a two-dimensional table with subjects down the columns and objects across the rows. The permissions of the subject to act upon a particular object are found in the cell that maps the subject to that object.

Background

The concept of an Access Control Matrix was formalized in the 1970s in order to help accurately describe the protection state of a system. This simple model reflected the access control logic of the operating systems of that time. Since then, the concept has been expanded and has morphed into various other access control models that can handle complex access control logic such as state dependent access control and hierarchical access control.

Application...