MongoDB Security: Understanding Authorization

Role-Based Access Control (RBAC)

MongoDB uses RBAC to assign permissions to users through roles.

Each role bundles specific privileges that define allowed actions on resources.

• Built-in roles cover common use cases like read, readWrite, dbAdmin, and clusterAdmin.
• Custom roles can be created for fine-grained access control.
• Roles can be assigned at the database or cluster level.

Assigning Roles to Users

Users in MongoDB are assigned roles that define their permissions.

Roles can be assigned during user creation or updated later.

• Use the mongo shell or MongoDB Compass to manage users and roles.
• Assign the least privilege necessary to reduce security risks.
• Example: A reporting user might only have the read role.

Best Practices for MongoDB Authorization

Implementing authorization properly is essential for securing your MongoDB deployment.

• Always enable authorization in production environments.
• Use built-in roles when possible to simplify management.
• Create custom roles only when necessary for specific permissions.
• Regularly review user roles and privileges.
• Combine authorization with authentication and encryption.