DCS Airspace Access Permissions and Multi-Level Access Control
DCS Airspace provides configurable access permissions that allow virtual squadrons to control who can connect to their airspace server and, when required, restrict access according to the group, operation, coalition, and controller role. This makes it possible to use the same DCS Airspace server for both open training environments and highly controlled multiplayer operations.
Server-Level Access Permissions
The first level of access control is configured in the User Control Panel > DCS Airspace Servers. Here, the server administrator can select one of three access modes:
- No Restrictions (Public): The DCS Airspace server is accessible to all logged-in Combined Ops users.
- Host Group Members Only: The server is accessible to all members of the hosting group. Group members can access both the Blue and Red coalitions.
- Operation and AOC Tools Project Related: This mode enables more granular access control based on an Operation and a linked DCS AOC Tools Project. To use it, first create an Operation on the Combined Ops main site and an AOC Tools Project, then select the project in the server's Ref. AOC Tools Project setting. Additional access-control options will then become available in AOC Tools > Project Properties.
Operation, Coalition and Controller Role Restrictions
When an AOC Tools Project is linked to the DCS Airspace server, additional access-control settings become available in AOC Tools > Project Properties. These settings are visible and editable only by Group Admins and AOC Admins.
- Host Group Members + Operation Registered Users, No Coalition Restrictions: Group members always have access to both coalitions. Other users must register for the operation through the Operations page on the main site. No coalition or role restrictions are applied.
- Operation Registered Users Only, Coalition Restricted: Users must register for the operation before accessing DCS Airspace. Access is limited to the coalition selected and/or approved during operation registration, while no role restriction is applied.
- Operation Registered Users Only, Coalition and Role Restricted (ATC/AWAC Only): This is the most restrictive access mode. Users must be registered for the operation, must belong to the selected and/or approved coalition, and must have been accepted with an ATC or AWAC role to access DCS Airspace. Pilots registered for the operation without an ATC or AWAC role cannot access the airspace workstation.
Why Use Multi-Level DCS Airspace Access Control?
These access levels allow a virtual squadron to adapt DCS Airspace permissions to the type of mission being flown. A public server can be used for open training and familiarization, while operation-based permissions can restrict access to the users, coalition, and controller roles required for a specific multiplayer mission. The most restrictive configuration can therefore ensure that only authorized ATC and AWAC controllers can enter the airspace workstation during a controlled operation.