Granular Access Control Mechanisms in Cloud Computing

Abstract

The rapid adoption of cloud computing has led to significant challenges in security and privacy management, particularly regarding access control mechanisms. Granular access control (GAC) mechanisms provide fine-tuned access management solutions, enabling organizations to enforce precise access policies tailored to diverse user roles and data sensitivities. This paper investigates the landscape of granular access control in cloud environments, including its approaches, challenges, and future directions. Granular Access Control (GAC) mechanisms play a pivotal role in enhancing the security and efficiency of cloud computing environments. By enabling fine-grained policies that adjust to various user attributes, actions, and environmental conditions, GAC ensures that only authorized users can access specific resources. This approach follows the principle of "least privilege," granting minimal access necessary to perform tasks, thus reducing the risk of data breaches and unauthorized access. Various models, such as Attribute-Based Access Control (ABAC), Context-Aware Access Control, Policy-Based Access Control (PBAC), and Permission-Based Access Control, offer tailored solutions to address the dynamic and complex nature of cloud environments. While GAC provides numerous advantages, it also presents challenges in policy management, performance, user compliance, and interoperability. Future research focusing on machine learning, decentralized access models, and integration with identity management systems holds promise for overcoming these challenges and further enhancing GAC in cloud computing.