What does the term "authorization" mean in the context of security controls?

In the context of security controls, "authorization" specifically refers to the official management decision to operate an information system based on its assessed security posture. This entails evaluating the risks, security controls, and the overall effectiveness of the system in protecting sensitive information and meeting compliance requirements. The authorization process is critical because it ensures that the management has assessed the security measures in place, understands the risks involved, and has formally agreed to accept those risks before the system becomes operational.

This process is typically encapsulated in a formal document such as an Authorization to Operate (ATO), which indicates that the system can function in a production environment under the established conditions. It serves as a significant accountability measure, ensuring that management takes an active role in the information security framework of the organization and is aware of the implications of their decision on risk and compliance.

Understanding this definition is essential as it underscores the importance of formal authorization in establishing a security posture, as opposed to more informal or vague actions such as granting access or providing training, which do not encapsulate the comprehensive risk assessment and decision-making process involved in authorization.