What is the main function of an access control list (ACL) in applications?

The main function of an access control list (ACL) in applications is to define permissions for users and processes regarding application resources. ACLs serve as a fundamental component of security and access management within software systems. They specify which users or processes are granted or denied access to specific resources and what type of operations they are allowed to perform, such as read, write, or execute.

In a software development context, ACLs help enforce security policies by permitting only authorized actions on resources based on the principles of least privilege, ensuring that users and processes only have the access necessary to perform their functions. This helps to protect sensitive data and application functionalities from unauthorized access and potential abuse.

While other options mention important concepts relevant to software security and application design, they do not specifically address the defined role of ACLs. For instance, storing application data securely relates more to encryption and data protection mechanisms rather than access control. Detecting vulnerabilities focuses on identifying security flaws in the software rather than managing permissions. Handling user authentication involves verifying user identities, which is a separate function from managing access rights, although both are critical components of an overall security strategy.