Access Control List (ACL)

An Access Control List (ACL) is a set of rules used by network devices to determine who can access certain resources or data. Think of it like a security gate at a club: it checks the list of allowed or blocked visitors based on specific criteria, such as IP addresses, users, or types of data. ACLs help ensure only authorized users can access or modify information, enhancing security and control over network traffic. They are commonly used in routers and firewalls to manage and restrict access efficiently.