129k views
5 votes
What happens if a role denies an access right and another one allows it?

User Nimir
by
8.3k points

1 Answer

2 votes

Final answer:

In computer systems, if one role denies an access right while another allows it, the result is determined by the system's access control policy, which could follow least privilege, most permissive strategies, or give precedence to explicit denials.

Step-by-step explanation:

When managing access rights in computer systems, it's common to encounter situations where one role denies an access right and another role allows it. This is typically governed by an access control policy, which can be based on models such as discretionary access control (DAC), role-based access control (RBAC), or mandatory access control (MAC). In the case of role-based access control, the outcome depends on the conflict resolution strategy in place.

One common approach is to apply the principle of "least privilege," which errs on the side of denying access unless explicitly granted. However, some systems opt for a "most permissive" strategy, granting access if any role assigned to a user allows it. Finally, explicit deny policies might override any allow conditions, meaning that if a role explicitly denies a permission, it will take precedence over another role that allows it. The exact behavior will depend on the system's configuration and the precedence rules defined by the access control policy.

User Katie Fritz
by
7.8k points