In Salesforce, both profiles and permission sets are used to control user access to data and functionalities, but they serve different purposes and have distinct characteristics:
Profiles:
Primary Role: Profiles are the fundamental way to control user access and permissions. Every user must be assigned a profile.
User Assignment: A user can only have one profile.
Scope: Profiles determine the base level of access for users. They define object permissions, field permissions, user permissions, tab settings, app settings, and other permissions.
Setup: Profiles are typically set up based on job roles (e.g., Sales, Marketing, Support).
Examples: Standard profiles like System Administrator, Standard User, and Read Only User.
Permission Sets:
Primary Role: Permission sets are used to grant additional permissions on top of those already assigned through profiles. They allow for a more granular and flexible permission model.
User Assignment: A user can be assigned multiple permission sets.
Scope: Permission sets provide extra permissions without altering the base permissions set by the profile. They can grant additional access to objects, fields, apps, and system permissions.
Setup: Permission sets are typically set up based on specific needs (e.g., a permission set to grant access to a specific app or feature).
Examples: A permission set granting access to a custom object not included in the user's profile.
