The type of controls implemented through physical mechanisms such as walls and locks is referred to as physical access controls. These controls are designed to prevent unauthorized access to physical areas or assets, ensuring that only authorized individuals can enter secure locations.
Physical access controls play a crucial role in overall security strategies as they provide tangible barriers to unauthorized access. This includes measures like locked doors, security guards, surveillance cameras, and fencing, which serve to deter intrusions and protect sensitive assets or information.
In the context of cybersecurity, while technical controls involve software and hardware mechanisms to protect data and systems, and administrative controls involve policies and procedures that govern security protocols, it is the physical access controls that provide the first line of defense against physical threats. They are essential for safeguarding the environment where sensitive equipment and data reside, thus directly contributing to the organization's security posture.