What does "access control" ensure in secure software design?

Access control is a critical component of secure software design that ensures only authorized users can access or interact with specific resources or functionalities. This means that access control mechanisms are put in place to verify user identities and determine what level of access each individual has based on their role, credentials, or security clearance.

By enforcing strict access control policies, software applications can protect sensitive data, restrict actions based on user roles, and prevent unauthorized access that could lead to data breaches, misuse of functionality, or other security threats. This practice is fundamental to safeguarding both the integrity of the application and the privacy of the information it manages.

The other options provided do not accurately reflect the primary function of access control within secure software design. Monitoring user performance or enhancing data analysis features pertains to different aspects of application functionality, while allowing unrestricted access contradicts the very purpose of access control, which is to impose restrictions and ensure security.