(ISC)2 Certified in Cybersecurity Practice Exam

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What is the purpose of an access control list (ACL)?

  1. A set of rules determining allowed users or systems

  2. A tool for managing network traffic

  3. A framework for user authentication methods

  4. A protocol for data encryption

The correct answer is: A set of rules determining allowed users or systems

The purpose of an access control list (ACL) is to establish a set of rules that specifically define which users or systems are allowed or denied access to various resources within a network or system. ACLs are essential for enforcing security policies by controlling permissions for files, directories, network devices, and other resources. This mechanism enables administrators to regulate who can view, modify, or execute specific resources, thereby protecting sensitive data from unauthorized access and ensuring compliance with internal policies and external regulations. This role is distinct from other options such as managing network traffic, which involves various policies and configurations like Quality of Service (QoS) rather than user access. A framework for user authentication methods focuses on verifying a user's identity, rather than defining permissions for access. Additionally, a protocol for data encryption relates to securing data in transit or at rest, which is not the primary function of an ACL. Therefore, the defining function of an access control list is its ability to delineate access rights and privileges for users or systems within a given environment.