Question

What is the difference between logical access to the computer and physical access to the computer? Why is the security of both important?

Answer 1

	Basis	LOGICAL ACCESS		PHYSICAL ACCESS
1	Definition	Logical access are such softwares and data that monitor and decide access to information and computing systems.		Physical access means such devices that provide direct access to computing information and resources.
2	Examples	login id, passwords, face recognition, PIN, etc.		Switch button, Power switch, access doors, etc
3	Controls	Controls on logical access are called logical access controls. Eg. - Passwords, PIN, biometric scans, etc		Controls on Physical access are called physical access controls. Eg. - Door Keys, PIN, video surveillance, etc

Both logical access and physical access are required for accessing any sort of computer information. A significant concern is ensuring that users have access to information that they need but do not have inappropriate access to information that is sensitive. It is also important to ensure that certain items, though readable by many users, can only be changed by a few. It is for these reasons that we need controls over both logical access and physical access.Logical access and Physical access are controlled by use of logical access controls and physical controls respectively (and obviously). Both logical and physical controls are expressions of administrative controls in information security. Logical control uses software and data to monitor and control access to information and computing systems such as passwords,networks and horde based firewalls and network invasion recognition systems.Logical access controls are often built into the operating system, or may be part of the "logic" of applications programs or major utilities, such as Database Management Systems. They may also be implemented in add-on security packages that are installed into an operating system; such packages are available for a variety of systems, including PCs and mainframes. Additionally, logical access controls may be present in specialized components that regulate communications between computers and networks. Examples are firewalls,antivirus software, anti-malware software, Login id and password, PINs, etc.

Physical controls, on the other hand, monitor and control the atmosphere of the work place and computing services such as doors,locks, heating and air conditioning, and video cameras.Physical security focusesprimarily on securing the facility rather than the information which it contains. The physicalaspects general encompass the for mentioned devices as well as magnetic locks for thepreviously mentioned doors, heat sensing infrared sensors, sonic detection sensors, and nightvision cameras incorporated into the video surveillance cameras.