Access Context Manager is a security service by Google Cloud that allows organizations to define fine-grained access controls based on attributes such as device type, IP address, and user identity. It helps in reducing the attack surface by granting access based on the context of the request rather than solely on network location.

Key Features

• Attribute-Based Access Control: Access is granted based on attributes like device type, IP address, and user identity.
• Access Levels: Define conditions that must be met for a request to be accepted.
• Service Perimeters: Define boundaries for data exchange within Google Cloud resources.
• Policy Management: Create and manage access policies at the organization, folder, or project level.
• Version Control: Use etag for versioning access policies to prevent unintended changes.

Benefits

• Enhanced Security: Reduces the attack surface by moving away from traditional network-based access models.
• Flexibility: Supports dynamic work environments with BYOD and cloud services.
• Compliance: Helps in meeting regulatory requirements by enforcing precise access controls.