What does Mandatory Access Control (MAC) entail?

Mandatory Access Control (MAC) is a security model that restricts access to resources based on the permissions associated with the user's security clearance. In a MAC system, access to information is determined by regulatory policies determined by a central authority, rather than by individual users or systems. This ensures that only authorized users can access specific data and resources, based on predetermined classifications and clearances, which enhances the overall security posture of the system.

For instance, in environments like government or military organizations, MAC is often used to enforce strict guidelines on who can access sensitive information, minimizing the risk of unauthorized access. This contrasts with other models, such as Discretionary Access Control (DAC), where individual users may determine who can access their resources.