What does "least privilege" mean in the context of firewalls?

In the context of firewalls, "least privilege" refers to the security principle that mandates that users and systems should only be given the minimum level of access necessary to perform their required functions. This approach is crucial for reducing the potential attack surface within a network, as it limits access rights for users, applications, and systems to only those necessary for their legitimate tasks.

By adhering to this principle, organizations can minimize the risk of unauthorized access and potential breaches. For example, if a user only needs access to specific data to perform their job, granting broader access increases vulnerability. Implementing least privilege helps ensure that if an account is compromised, the potential damage is limited due to restrictive access.

This principle aligns well with firewall configuration and security policies, as it dictates how to manage access controls effectively, thereby enhancing overall network security.