What is meant by an access control list (ACL)?

An access control list (ACL) is defined as a set of rules that specifies user access to various objects, such as files, directories, or network resources. This means that an ACL outlines who can access specific resources and what actions they are permitted to perform, which could include reading, writing, or executing files. ACLs play a crucial role in security, helping to enforce policies regarding who is allowed to perform certain functions in a system or network. By controlling access at a granular level, organizations can protect their data and manage user privileges effectively.

The other options do not accurately convey the purpose of an ACL. A list of security breaches does not pertain to access control but instead refers to logged incidents of unauthorized access or attacks. A summary of network performance relates to metrics and statistics about how efficiently a network operates, while a database of user passwords indicates secure storage for authentication information, which is entirely different from access control management. Understanding ACLs is vital in cybersecurity for enforcing security measures that protect sensitive information and maintain system integrity.