What is meant by access controls?

Access controls are security mechanisms that regulate and control access to resources in a computer system or software. They ensure that only authorized users or programs can access specific information, files, functions, or other system resources while preventing unauthorized access. Access controls encompass various methods and techniques, including authentication, authorization, role-based access control (RBAC), access policies, and encryption.

Typical functions of software in the field of "access controls" include:

Authentication: Verifying the identity of a user or entity to ensure they are indeed who they claim to be.
Authorization: Setting permissions and access rights for authorized users or entities based on their role, membership, or other criteria.
Role-Based Access Control (RBAC): Assigning permissions based on the roles users hold within the system, simplifying the management of access rights.
Access Policies: Establishing rules and policies that control access to specific resources or functions based on defined conditions or criteria.
Monitoring and Auditing: Logging access attempts, monitoring access patterns, and conducting security audits to identify and monitor potential security vulnerabilities.
Encryption: Securing sensitive data through encryption during transmission and storage to ensure the confidentiality and integrity of the data.
Session Management: Managing user sessions and states to ensure that only authorized users have access to protected areas or functions.