Access control refers to the selective restriction of access to a resource, such as a physical location, computer system, or piece of data. The concept is central to security protocols in various contexts, aiming to ensure that only authorized individuals or systems can perform actions or retrieve information from a restricted area or system. Access control mechanisms can be physical, like door locks and biometric scans, or digital, like passwords, encryption keys, and permissions set within software applications. In computing environments, access control is often implemented through methods like Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) or Attribute-Based Access Control (ABAC), which allocate permissions based on an individual's role within an organization or specific attributes, respectively. Properly configured access control systems are essential for protecting the integrity, availability, and confidentiality of information, and they are a foundational element of any comprehensive security strategy. They not only prevent unauthorized access but also provide a way to audit and monitor activities, enhancing accountability and compliance with legal and organizational policies.