Key Takeaways
- Identity is the new perimeter in modern security.
- Least privilege access reduces attack surface.
- MFA should be universal, not optional.
- Privileged access requires special controls (PAM).
- Regular access reviews prevent privilege creep.
- SSO improves security and user experience.
Table of Contents
1. What is IAM?
Identity and Access Management (IAM) encompasses the policies, processes, and technologies to manage digital identities and control access to resources. It answers: Who are you? What are you allowed to access? What did you do?
With cloud adoption and remote work, identity has become the new security perimeter. If attackers can compromise credentials, they bypass traditional network controls.
2. Identity Lifecycle
| Stage | Activities | Security Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Joiner | Create account, provision access | Verify identity, appropriate initial access |
| Mover | Role change, access modification | Remove old access, add new access |
| Leaver | Disable/delete account | Immediate deprovisioning, access revocation |
Orphaned Accounts Risk
Accounts that aren't properly deprovisioned when employees leave become attack vectors. Implement automated deprovisioning tied to HR systems. Regularly audit for orphaned accounts.
3. Access Control Models
- RBAC (Role-Based): Access based on job roles
- ABAC (Attribute-Based): Access based on attributes (location, time, device)
- MAC (Mandatory): Security labels and clearances
- DAC (Discretionary): Owner controls access
# RBAC example:
Role: Developer
- Read access to production logs
- Write access to development environment
- No access to production database admin
Role: DBA
- Admin access to databases
- No access to production application code4. Single Sign-On
4.1 SSO Benefits
- Fewer passwords = better password hygiene
- Centralized authentication and audit
- Better user experience
- Easier MFA enforcement
4.2 SSO Protocols
| Protocol | Use Case |
|---|---|
| SAML 2.0 | Enterprise web applications |
| OAuth 2.0 | API authorization |
| OpenID Connect | Modern authentication (built on OAuth) |
5. Privileged Access Management
Privileged accounts (admins, service accounts, root) are high-value targets. PAM provides enhanced controls for these accounts.
- Vaulting: Secure storage of privileged credentials
- Just-in-Time access: Provision access only when needed
- Session recording: Audit privileged activities
- Credential rotation: Automatic password changes
6. Identity Governance
# Key governance processes:
- Access certification: Regular review of who has access
- Segregation of duties: Prevent conflicting permissions
- Role management: Keep roles aligned with job functions
- Entitlement management: Track and control fine-grained permissions
- Audit and reporting: Demonstrate compliance7. Zero Trust Identity
Never Trust, Always Verify
Zero Trust identity means verifying every access request regardless of source:
• Strong authentication (MFA)
• Device health verification
• Contextual access policies
• Continuous authorization
• Risk-based access decisions
Start with Quick Wins
Enforce MFA everywhere, especially for privileged access. Implement SSO to reduce credential sprawl. Conduct access reviews quarterly. These foundational controls address the most common identity-related breaches.
8. Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
IAM is foundational to modern security. Implement strong authentication, enforce least privilege, protect privileged access, and conduct regular access reviews. As you move toward Zero Trust, identity becomes the control plane for all access decisions. Invest in IAM—it's where most breaches start.
Continue Learning:
Zero Trust
Two-Factor Auth