In the framework for managing access, what does AAA stand for?

• A. Authentication, Authorization, Accounting
• B. Access Control, Authentication, Authorization
• C. Authentication, Audit, Accounting
• D. Authorization, Authentication, Access

Answer: (A)

In access-management frameworks, AAA represents Authentication, Authorization, and Accounting. Authentication verifies who you are, using methods like passwords, tokens, or biometrics. Authorization decides what you are allowed to do after you’ve been authenticated, granting appropriate permissions based on roles or policies. Accounting records what happens during and after access—logging sessions, resources used, and timestamps for auditing, billing, or compliance.

The other options mix or replace terms that aren’t part of the standard trio. For example, using Access Control instead of Accounting shifts focus away from tracking and logging, while Audit instead of Accounting emphasizes review but not the ongoing usage records. Reordering or swapping terms breaks the established sequence and meaning of the framework.