Subject (Dictionary Entry)

Term

Subject

Context

IAM

Definition

In the IAM literature, the term subject is used with inconsistent definitions. For instance, (https://open-measure.atlassian.net/wiki/spaces/BIB/pages/67600608) defines it as a running process, a program in execution. On the other hand, (https://open-measure.atlassian.net/wiki/spaces/BIB/pages/67633515 and https://open-measure.atlassian.net/wiki/spaces/BIB/pages/49284700) use it to designate the external active agent on behalf of whom the process is running.

Here, we use Benantar’s definition: the term subject designates a running process and the term entity designates the active agent on behalf of whom the process is running.

Quotes

A subject is the term used to identify a running process, a program in execution. Each subject assumes the identity and the privileges of a single principal. A principal may launch several processes within a single login session and thus will be associated with multiple subjects, each of which inherits the identity of the login session. Figure 1.2 illustrates the relationships between a user, a principal, and a subject.

, p. 9

Subject: An active entity, generally in the form of a person, process, or device that causes information to flow among objects (see below) or changes the system state [NCSC88].

(, p. 3)

Subjects are the parties, typically individuals, whose identity attributes are digitally recorded and used for transactions and other purposes.

(, p. 25)

Sources

  • , p. 9

  • , p. 25

  • , p. 3

  • , p. 17

See Also

  • Operation

  • User

 


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