How is data visibility determined in Salesforce?

Data visibility in Salesforce is primarily determined by user roles established in the role hierarchy. The role hierarchy is a key component of Salesforce's sharing model, which dictates how records are accessible based on the user's position within the hierarchy. Users higher in the hierarchy can access data owned by users below them, allowing for a structured way to share information throughout an organization.

This method not only facilitates controlled data access but also aligns with organizational structures, enabling users to see records that are relevant to their responsibilities while maintaining data security. Thus, a well-defined role hierarchy can enhance collaboration and data sharing among teams while ensuring that sensitive information is adequately protected.

In contrast, application settings, log-in credentials, and external authentication systems play their own respective roles in user authentication and access control but do not directly govern how data visibility within the Salesforce platform is structured.