Which concept refers to the ability to modify system parameters like the system time?

The concept that refers to the ability to modify system parameters, such as the system time, is privilege. Privilege is a specific level of access granted to users that allows them to perform actions that go beyond standard permissions. For example, changing system time is a critical system function that requires elevated rights because incorrect time settings can impact various system operations, security protocols, and logging.

This distinction is crucial in Identity and Access Management because privileges are often restricted to administrators or specialized users to maintain system integrity and security. This reinforces the principle of least privilege, which states that users should only receive the minimum level of access necessary for their tasks.

While permission generally refers to the specific rights given to users to perform certain actions, it does not encompass the broader concept of privilege necessary for modifying sensitive system parameters. Access control is a broader term that refers to the overall methods of regulating who can access or use resources within a system, while authentication is the process of verifying a user's identity before granting access. None of these correctly capture the specific ability to change system parameters as privilege does.