Physical Controls

Now, let’s discuss the next section of general controls, which are physical controls. Physical controls are the measures that prevent someone from physically accessing computer resources.

Here are a few examples of these physical controls:

Firstly, an organization could install cameras that monitor who is accessing the building. Secondly, an organization could have security guards on campus to prevent unauthorized physical access. Thirdly, an organization could give key cards to employees to allow them access to the building, also known as smart cards. Finally, an organization could use what are called biometric devices, such as finger scanners and retina scanners. With biometric devices, the actual person must be present. Even if someone stole a key card, they could not gain access to the building without the required biometric data. These are examples of physical controls.