Final answer:
Access control is crucial in computer-based information systems to prevent unauthorized access and protect sensitive data. Widely used authentication factors include passwords, smart cards, and biometrics.
Step-by-step explanation:
Access control plays a critical role in computer-based information systems by ensuring that only authorized individuals can access and use sensitive and valuable data. It helps protect against unauthorized access, data breaches, and potential damage to the system.
Access control mechanisms include user authentication factors such as something the user knows (passwords), something the user has (smart cards), and something the user is (biometrics).