What does discretionary access control allow users to do?

Discretionary access control (DAC) is a type of access control mechanism that allows users to manage access to the resources they own. This means that resource owners can determine who is allowed to access their files, systems, or data and can grant or revoke permissions as they see fit. Essentially, it gives individuals the authority to control who has access to their own resources, thereby facilitating a flexible permission structure that can adapt based on the owner’s preferences.

This model contrasts with more restrictive access controls, where permissions are defined at a higher level, sometimes using predetermined policies that limit user control over their own resources. By empowering users to control access, DAC enables a collaborative environment while also posing some security risks if not properly managed, since individuals might inadvertently grant access to unauthorized users.