dedicated security mode

A mode of system operation wherein all users having access to the system possess, for all data handled by the system, both (a) all necessary authorizations (i.e., security clearance and formal access approval) and (b) a need-to-know. (See: /system operation/ under "mode", formal access approval, need to know, protection level, security clearance.)

Usage: Usually abbreviated as "dedicated mode". This mode was defined in U.S. Government policy on system accreditation, but the term is also used outside the Government. In this mode, the system may handle either (a) a single classification level or category of information or (b) a range of levels and categories.