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Mandatory Access Control (MAC)

TL;DR: Mandatory Access Control (MAC) is a strict security model that regulates access to resources based on predefined policies set by a central authority, preventing users from modifying permissions.

What is Mandatory Access Control?

MAC is a highly secure access control model used in environments where strict data classification and protection are required, such as government and military systems. Unlike discretionary access control (DAC), where users can grant permissions, MAC enforces rules set by administrators, ensuring that only authorized users or systems can access specific resources based on security labels and classifications.

How Does Mandatory Access Control Work?

  1. Assign Security Labels – Every user and resource is given a classification level (e.g., Top Secret, Confidential).
  2. Define Access Policies – Administrators create strict rules on who can access specific data or systems.
  3. Enforce Policy-Based Access – Users can only access resources if their clearance matches the classification.
  4. Restrict User Modifications – Unlike other models, users cannot change permissions or grant access.
  5. Monitor and Audit Activity – All access attempts and modifications are logged for security oversight.

Types of Mandatory Access Control

  • Rule-Based MAC – Access is determined by pre-configured policies based on attributes like role, device, or location.
  • Label-Based MAC – Uses security labels to classify data and enforce access restrictions.

How to Implement Mandatory Access Control

  1. Define Security Classifications – Categorize data and resources with security labels.
  2. Establish Access Control Policies – Set rules for who can access what, based on classification levels.
  3. Use Secure Operating Systems – Implement MAC-supported OSs like SELinux or Windows Mandatory Integrity Control (MIC).
  4. Enforce Policy Compliance – Regularly update and audit access rules for security integrity.
  5. Monitor & Log Access Attempts – Maintain records of user activity to detect anomalies.

Conclusion

Mandatory Access Control provides a highly secure, policy-driven approach to access management, ideal for environments requiring strict data protection. By enforcing predefined rules and preventing user modifications, MAC minimizes security risks and unauthorized access.