Definition
An allowlist is a security mechanism that explicitly permits access to trusted entities such as websites, IP addresses, or applications while blocking everything else by default. It enables system administrators to manage the data flow and minimize potential security threats.
Allowlist Examples
- Email allowlist is a collection of approved email addresses that are permitted to send messages to the user’s inbox, bypassing spam filters.
- IP allowlist is a list of approved IP addresses that are allowed to access a server or network.
- A website allowlist is a set of trusted websites that a user can access. It is often used in parental control settings or corporate environments.
Managing Allowlists
- Don’t solely rely on allowlists – they should be part of a comprehensive security solution.
- Review and update your allowlist regularly to include only necessary entities.
- Use network monitoring tools to monitor the activities of listed entities to ensure they maintain their trusted status.