What does access control help manage within a computing environment?

Access control is primarily concerned with determining and managing who has the authority to view or use resources within a computing environment. This includes defining user permissions and rights related to data, applications, and systems. By implementing robust access control measures, organizations can safeguard sensitive information and ensure that only authorized personnel can access crucial resources. This is vital in maintaining the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of data.

Managing permissions through access control is essential for preventing unauthorized access, which could lead to data breaches, loss of sensitive information, or misuse of resources. It establishes a clear understanding of user roles and responsibilities, thereby contributing to an organization's overall security posture.

While aspects like data storage, IT costs, and software licensing agreements are important in a computing environment, they do not directly pertain to the primary focus of access control, which is centered on user access and permissions. Therefore, the correct answer accurately reflects the fundamental purpose of access control within organizations.