What does the 'allowed list' refer to in security terms?

The 'allowed list' in security terms refers to a catalog of verified applications and users that are permitted to execute or access resources within a system. This approach is pivotal in access control strategies, particularly in managing applications and ensuring that only software that has been vetted for security risks is allowed to run in an environment. By maintaining an allowed list, organizations can effectively mitigate risks associated with unknown or untrusted applications, thus enhancing overall security posture.

This concept serves as a proactive measure to control the software environment, generally implemented in conjunction with other security mechanisms, such as intrusion detection systems or anti-malware solutions. It contrasts with a blacklist approach, where the emphasis is on preventing known malicious items while potentially allowing unknown or unverified items, which could also pose risks. The allowed list is thus crucial for minimizing the attack surface and ensuring compliance with security policies.