Access control

11/09/2025

Author: Stuart Barker | ISO 27001 Expert and Thought Leader

ISO 27001 access control is a security measure that limits who can view or use information. It’s like having a special key or password to get into a room or use a computer file. This helps keep important data safe from people who shouldn’t see it.

Examples

  • Passwords: You need a password to log into your email. This password is a form of access control.
  • Keycards: A keycard to enter an office building is another example. Only people with the right card can get in.
  • Permissions: On a computer, you might have permission to read a document but not to change it. This controls what you can do with the file.

Context

Access control is a key part of information security. It makes sure that confidentialityintegrity, and availability of information are protected. It’s not just about stopping bad guys; it’s also about making sure people can’t accidentally mess up data. Organizations use this to meet rules and keep their info safe.

Relevant ISO 27001 Controls

The following controls from the ISO/IEC 27001:2022 standard are related to access control:

About the author

Stuart Barker is an information security practitioner of over 30 years. He holds an MSc in Software and Systems Security and an undergraduate degree in Software Engineering. He is an ISO 27001 expert and thought leader holding both ISO 27001 Lead Implementer and ISO 27001 Lead Auditor qualifications. In 2010 he started his first cyber security consulting business that he sold in 2018. He worked for over a decade for GE, leading a data governance team across Europe and since then has gone on to deliver hundreds of client engagements and audits.

He regularly mentors and trains professionals on information security and runs a successful ISO 27001 YouTube channel where he shows people how they can implement ISO 27001 themselves. He is passionate that knowledge should not be hoarded and brought to market the first of its kind online ISO 27001 store for all the tools and templates people need when they want to do it themselves.

In his personal life he is an active and a hobbyist kickboxer.

His specialisms are ISO 27001 and SOC 2 and his niche is start up and early stage business.