6.2.2.1 Passive and Active Metapolicies

As we have seen from the metapolicy examples and as was discussed in section , some metapolicies must be actively enforced and others, the passive metapolicies, state information which must be considered during the operation of the management system.

Both kinds of metapolicies are necessary, even when, in theory, the passive ones could be emulated by active metapolicies. However, they have different character and therefore the distinction is valid and useful.

The active metapolicies ensure the execution of actions and bring the management system into a state compliant with the metapolicy. With help of passive metapolicies, the management system can make right decisions without disturbing the desired management actions.