Intent-based access control (IBAC) is an authorization approach that evaluates whether a requested action aligns with an approved purpose. It considers what a user, application, or AI agent is trying to accomplish alongside identity, permissions, and security policies to determine whether an action should proceed.
This brings the purpose of a request into decisions about accessing resources, invoking tools, calling APIs, and performing operations across systems.
How does intent-based access control work?
IBAC connects each requested action to the task it supports. Authorization decisions can consider who initiated the task, whose authority is being used, the resource involved, and the current workflow state.
For example, an assistant asked to find available meeting times may need permission to check calendars. Sending invitations or cancelling existing meetings would require separate authorization. Those capabilities might be available to the assistant, but they do not automatically belong within the scheduling request.
How does IBAC differ from role-based access control?
Role-based access control defines permissions through assigned roles. Intent-based access control adds a task-specific constraint: does this particular action serve the approved objective?
The approaches can work together. A role establishes permitted capabilities, while intent helps limit how those capabilities are used during a task.
Why is intent-based access control useful for AI agents?
AI agents can choose tools and adapt their actions as a workflow unfolds. Checking each action against the approved purpose helps keep that execution within scope, including when work passes between agents.
For a deeper explanation, read our guide to intent-based access control for AI agents.
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