Access ControlHigh
Least Privilege
A security principle where users and systems are granted only the minimum access necessary to perform their required functions
Skill Paths:
Identity and Access ManagementAccess ControlSecurity FundamentalsSecurity Governance
Job Paths:
Identity and Access Management SpecialistSecurity EngineerSecurity AnalystIT Administrator
Relevant Certifications:
CISSPCompTIA Security+SANS GSECMicrosoft Security Certifications
Content
What is Least Privilege?
The Principle of Least Privilege (PoLP) is a fundamental security concept that states users and systems should be granted only the minimum access necessary to perform their required functions. This principle limits the potential damage from compromised accounts and reduces the attack surface.
Core Principles
- Need-to-know basis – Access only to information required for job function
- Need-to-access basis – Access only to systems and resources necessary for tasks
- Temporal limitation – Access granted only for the time needed
- Justification required – All access must have a business justification
Implementation Strategies
Role-Based Access Control (RBAC)
- Define roles based on job functions
- Assign permissions to roles, not individuals
- Users inherit permissions through role membership
- Easier to manage and audit
Attribute-Based Access Control (ABAC)
- Use attributes (user, resource, environment) for access decisions
- More granular and flexible than RBAC
- Can consider context (time, location, device)
- Complex to implement but very powerful
Just-In-Time (JIT) Access
- Grant elevated privileges only when needed
- Time-limited access with automatic expiration
- Requires approval workflow for sensitive access
- Reduces standing privileges
Benefits
- Reduced attack surface – Fewer privileged accounts to compromise
- Limited lateral movement – Attackers can't easily escalate privileges
- Compliance – Helps meet regulatory requirements
- Audit efficiency – Easier to track and review access
- Accident prevention – Users can't accidentally damage systems
Best Practices
- Start with new systems – Implement from the beginning
- Inventory existing access – Document all current permissions
- Regular access reviews – Quarterly or annual reviews
- Automate where possible – Use tools for access management
- Monitor access patterns – Detect unusual privilege usage
- Document exceptions – Justify any elevated access
- Train users – Explain the importance of least privilege
- Integrate with IAM – Use centralized identity management
Quick Facts
Severity Level
9/10
Goal
Limit damage if credentials are compromised
Method
Granular permissions, access justification
Tools
IAM, RBAC, PAM
Example
Developers can't access production DBs
Related Terms