👉 Overview
👀 What ?
Linux AuthZ&AuthN and Docker Access Authorization Plugin are two interconnected concepts in the realm of cybersecurity. AuthZ represents Authorization, which is the process of determining what a user is allowed to do after they have been authenticated. AuthN stands for Authentication, which is the process of verifying the identity of a user. On the other hand, Docker Access Authorization Plugin is a security feature in Docker (an open-source platform used to automate the deployment, scaling, and management of applications) that restricts the Docker API's access based on the user's role and permissions.
🧐 Why ?
Understanding these concepts is crucial for maintaining the security of any system that uses Docker. Without proper authentication and authorization, a system is vulnerable to unauthorized access and potential malicious activities. Furthermore, Docker's widespread use in modern software development and deployment makes understanding its security measures, like the Access Authorization Plugin, pivotal for those working in the field.
⛏️ How ?
To implement the Docker Access Authorization Plugin, one must first enable it in the Docker daemon configuration file. This is done by adding an 'authz-plugin' option followed by the name of the plugin. Once the plugin is enabled, it will intercept all Docker API requests and allow or deny them based on the user's permissions. As for Linux AuthZ&AuthN, it can be managed through various tools and configurations, such as PAM (Pluggable Authentication Modules), Access Control Lists, and user and group permissions.
⏳ When ?
The use of these concepts has become more prevalent with the rise of Docker and the growing need for robust security measures in software development and deployment.
⚙️ Technical Explanations
At a technical level, Docker Access Authorization Plugin works by intercepting Docker API requests. The plugin receives the full user request (including the body), reviews it, and then either approves or denies it. The decision is made based on predefined rules and policies. If the request is approved, it is forwarded to the Docker daemon; if not, the user receives an error message. The Linux AuthZ&AuthN, on the other hand, operates on the system level. It checks the user's credentials upon login (authentication) and then determines what the user is allowed to do based on their permissions (authorization). Both systems work together to provide a secure environment where users can only perform actions that they have been explicitly granted permission to do.