What is RBAC?

Introduction to Role-Based Access Control (RBAC)

Role-Based Access Control, known as RBAC (Role-Based Access Control), is an essential approach for restricting access to systems and information to unauthorized users. Its purpose is to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information in an organization. Based on the principle of Minimum Privilege, RBAC limits access and the actions that users can take, reducing the risk of security breaches.

Fundamentals of RBAC

In the RBAC model, “roles” or functions are created for different positions within the organization. The permissions necessary to perform certain operations are assigned to these functions. In this way, users acquire their permissions through the functions to which they are associated, instead of receiving direct access. This structure simplifies operations such as adding new users or changes to an employee's department.

Roles represent positions within the organization, associated with specific responsibilities and authorities. Although the roles may change, the structure and hierarchy remain stable, allowing the pre-definition of permissions.
‍

RBAC components

In the RBAC model, there are four main components:

• Users: Represent individuals or entities that need to access the systems.
• Roles: Roles that define a set of permissions for specific groups of users. Each user can be associated with one or more roles.
• Permissions: Describe the ability to perform specific operations on objects or resources.
• Sessions: Map users and their active roles, allowing multiple sessions for different functions.

Differentiation between Roles and Groups

An important distinction is that groups are collections of users, while roles connect users and permissions. Roles facilitate access management by directly linking the necessary rights to the responsibilities of each role.

RBAC model and hierarchies

The RBAC 1 model introduces role hierarchies, allowing one role to inherit permissions from another. For example, a doctor may inherit permissions from a care provider but also have specific additional rights. Hierarchies reflect lines of authority and responsibility in the organization.
‍

Restriction and complexity in RBAC

The RBAC 2 model adds restrictions that impose rules on what roles can be assigned to users, ensuring security and consistency. These restrictions include:

• Mutual exclusion: A user cannot have two conflicting roles.
• Pre-conditions: A user must have a specific function before acquiring another one.

These practices help maintain access control in compliance with organizational policies.
‍

RBAC 3 Advanced Model

RBAC 3 combines hierarchies of functions and restrictions, providing greater flexibility and security in access management. Restrictions can be applied directly to hierarchies, limiting the functions that a user can inherit, ensuring strict control.

RBAC is an important framework for information security in modern corporate environments. Its implementation improves access management and reduces risks, establishing clear control over the organization's systems. Adopting best practices in RBAC can become a competitive differential, promoting operational efficiency and greater security for companies.
‍

Do you want to implement a robust RBAC solution in your company? Contact Vennx and discover how our technologies can transform your organization's access management.

‍