What is meant by 'Attribute-Based Access Control' (ABAC)?

Attribute-Based Access Control (ABAC) refers to a method of regulating access to resources based on a combination of attributes associated with the user (the subject), the resource (the object), and the environmental context. In ABAC, access decisions are made based on the attributes of both the user (such as their role, clearance level, or other personal identifiers), the resource (like type, sensitivity, or ownership), and the environment (including time of access, location, or device type).

This approach allows for more fine-grained and dynamic access control compared to traditional models. Rather than relying solely on fixed roles or individual permissions, ABAC accommodates varying contexts and conditions, enabling customized access that adapts to the specific situation. This flexibility is particularly beneficial in complex or highly regulated environments where different circumstances might require varied access levels.

The other options reflect more rigid or limited models of access control. One option limits access to just user roles, ignoring other critical factors such as resource sensitivity or environmental factors. Another focuses strictly on compliance, which may not account for the broader set of attributes that could govern access. Lastly, restricting access based solely on resource ownership disregards the potential relevance of the user's context and other attributes in making access decisions. Thus, the correct