File Descriptor definition
File descriptor refers to a numeric number identifier used in operating systems, meaning it’s a special number that a computer uses to track files and devices it is using. File descriptors are crucial for managing access to files, sockets, pipes, and other I/O devices. Furthermore, they help control who can access, transmit, and use various information. That can contribute to data safety and overall system security.
See also: end-to-end encryption
Common applications and examples of file descriptors:
- Access control: File descriptors are used in access control policies, as they can ensure that the information used, modified, or written is only by authorized users. That can lead to data breach prevention and unauthorized access.
- Intrusion detection: Many intrusion detection systems rely on file descriptors to monitor activity and network connections. That way, suspicious activity can activate alerts and favor in detecting potential security incidents.
- Network security: File descriptors manage socket connections in network applications and services. Concise management of file descriptors is essential to prevent various network attacks, like denial-of-service (DoS) attacks or buffer overflow vulnerabilities.
