Authentication and Authorization in Resource Sharing Networks

Abstract

Authentication and authorization turned out to be of central concern in resource sharing networks. It must be expected, that the willingness of an institution to contribute its equipment to such a network greatly depends on the protection mechanisms provided. We start with discussing a number of alternative approaches and solutions for the authorization and authentication problem. The conclusions drawn from these discussions form the basis for the design of the DAC Authentication and Authorization System which is described next. Emphasis has thereby been laid on the clearness of concepts and on operational robustness of the resulting system.