What is the definition of Access Control?

Access control refers to the selective restriction of access to network resources. It is a fundamental security measure that determines who is allowed to access and use specific resources within a network. This can include not just physical assets like servers and computers, but also digital assets such as files and applications.

The importance of access control lies in its ability to protect sensitive information and ensure that only authorized users can access or manipulate data. This process typically involves the implementation of policies that define user roles and permissions, as well as authentication mechanisms to verify the identity of users attempting to gain access.

In contrast, the other options focus on different aspects of security and management rather than defining access control itself. While securing physical locations (first option) and establishing data encryption (fourth option) are important components of an organization's overall security strategy, they do not specifically address how access to those resources is regulated. The monitoring of user actions (third option) is also critical for security but pertains more to oversight and compliance rather than the initial restriction of resource access. Thus, the definition that accurately encapsulates the concept of access control is the selective restriction of access to network resources.