What does an Access Control List (ACL) specify for an asset?

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Prepare for the Operating System Security Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Get ready for your test!

An Access Control List (ACL) specifically indicates which users have permission to perform particular actions on an asset. ACLs are critical components of access control in operating systems and network security. They define the permissions associated with specific resources, such as files or devices, and outline the allowed actions for each user or group of users.

By specifying individual users or groups and the actions they are authorized to take—such as read, write, or execute—ACLs enhance security by ensuring that only permitted users can access or modify sensitive assets. This focuses on managing user privileges effectively within the system, which is essential for maintaining data integrity and confidentiality.

The other options pertain to different aspects of system security. While connecting devices, installing software, and limiting user access numbers are all relevant to security and resource management, they do not accurately encapsulate the role of an Access Control List. ACLs are specifically concerned with user permissions rather than device connections, software management, or user capacity on resources.