Identity and Access Management (IAM) Overview
IAM is a framework and set of technologies used to manage and secure digital identities,
control access to resources, and ensure appropriate access levels for users
It is critical for safeguarding an organization's digital assets and data
Importance of IAM
Security: Protects sensitive data and systems by ensuring only authorized users can
access specific resources, reducing data breach risks
Compliance: Helps organizations meet regulatory requirements regarding data access
Efficiency: Streamlines the process of granting and revoking access, enhancing
productivity
User Experience: Solutions like Single Sign-On (SSO) improve user experience by
minimizing password management
Cost Reduction: Automates identity-related tasks, reducing administrative overhead
Risk Management: Provides monitoring and reporting capabilities for access control
Audit and Accountability: Offers tracking of user access to resources
Centralized Management: Simplifies administration of user accounts and access rights
Adaptability: Allows dynamic adjustment of user access based on changing business
needs
Remote Workforce Management: Essential for managing identities and access in
remote work environments.
Concept of Identification, Authentication, Authorization, and Accountability (IAAA)
Identification: Recognizing users through unique identifiers like usernames.
Authentication: Verifying user identity through factors like passwords or biometrics.
Authorization: Determining user permissions based on roles and policies.
Accountability: Tracking user actions to maintain security and compliance.
Single Sign-On (SSO)
SSO allows users to access multiple applications with a single set of credentials.
Advantages for Users:
Convenience and improved productivity.
Enhanced user experience and reduced password fatigue.
Single logout capability.
Advantages for Organizations:
Enhanced security and streamlined user management.
Compliance support through auditing capabilities.
Cost reduction in IT support.
Disadvantages:
Security risks if credentials are compromised.
Integration challenges with existing systems.
User resistance and complexity in configuration.
Principle of Least Privilege
This principle states that users should have the minimum access necessary to perform
their tasks.
Importance:
Enhances security by limiting access rights.
Mitigates risks from insider threats and accidental breaches.
Ensures compliance with regulations.
Simplifies access control management.
Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) vs. Attribute-Based Access Control (ABAC)
RBAC: Access is based on predefined roles corresponding to job functions.
ABAC: Access is determined by evaluating user attributes and environmental conditions.
RBAC is simpler and easier to manage, while ABAC offers more flexibility and fine-
grained control.
Identity Governance and Administration (IGA)
IGA focuses on governance, compliance, and lifecycle management of digital identities.
It differs from IAM by emphasizing business-centric identity management and
compliance.
Password Security Best Practices
Implement complex password policies and multi-factor authentication (MFA).
Educate users on password security and enforce account lockout policies.
Regularly monitor login attempts and conduct security audits.
Managing Privileged Accounts
Challenges include abuse of privilege, credential theft, and inadequate authentication.
Mitigation strategies involve implementing least privilege, privileged access
management, and continuous monitoring.
Just-in-Time Provisioning
This concept involves creating user accounts and granting access rights only when
needed.
It enhances security by minimizing overprivileged accounts and limiting access duration.
User Provisioning and De-Provisioning
User Provisioning: Creating accounts and assigning access rights when users join an
organization.
De-Provisioning: Revoking access and disabling accounts when users leave or change
roles.
Both processes are essential for maintaining security and compliance.
