IAM (Identity and Access Management)

A framework of policies and technologies ensuring the right individuals access the right resources at the right times for the right reasons.

What is IAM?

Identity and Access Management (IAM) is a framework of business processes, policies, and technologies that facilitates the management of digital identities and their access to resources. IAM ensures that the right people have appropriate access to technology resources.

IAM Core Functions

Identity Management: Create, manage, delete digital identities
Authentication: Verify identity (who you are)
Authorization: Determine access rights (what you can do)
Administration: Manage the IAM system itself
Auditing: Track and report on access activities

IAM Components

Directory Services: Store identity information (Active Directory, LDAP)
Single Sign-On (SSO): One authentication for multiple systems
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Multiple verification methods
Privileged Access Management (PAM): Control elevated access
Identity Governance: Policies, compliance, certifications

Key Concepts

Role-Based Access Control (RBAC): Access based on job roles
Attribute-Based Access Control (ABAC): Access based on attributes
Least Privilege: Minimum necessary access rights
Separation of Duties: Divide critical functions

Benefits

Enhanced security and compliance
Improved user experience
Reduced administrative costs
Better visibility and auditing
Support for regulatory requirements