Today's businesses are migrating to the cloud. They prefer it for its cost savings, ease of use, and efficient service. However, like other online platforms, it also brings its share of security issues.
IAM (Identity and Access Management) solutions can minimize risk in native cloud environments. They follow a Zero Trust approach assuming every visitor and activity is a threat. They require authentication or authorization for every workload.
This article will discuss various IAM solutions used in native cloud environments.
What is a Cloud Native Environment?
The term 'cloud native' refers to applications that were designed for cloud-specific use. It uses cloud-friendly technology like containers, auto-scaling, and microservices. It stands apart from cloud-enabled apps that are not as scalable, flexible, or resilient.
What are Popular IAM Solutions?
There are various IAM software systems. The features will vary depending on the one you choose. Here are some you will typically encounter.
Multi-Factor Identification: Multi-factor identification goes beyond password access. It requires users to receive codes through their cell phones and emails. It also includes fingerprint and facial recognition. It minimizes unwanted traffic on cloud-native apps.
Single Sign-on: Single sign-on allows users to access all necessary materials with one sign-on. It's a convenient IAM solution.
Session Management for on-Prem and Remote Users: Session management allows users to monitor and record all user actions during a session including those accessing the system remotely. It provides visibility and traceability so users can better understand how and why breaches occurred. It can help organizations update their security measures.
Decentralized IAM Solutions: Decentralized systems let users own, manage, and control their personal information without relying on a central system. Instead of sharing your identity with every service you interact with, you can share specific information with services and grant them access when needed. The system improves data privacy, promotes portability across platforms, and offers optimal transparency.
Scenario-Based Policies: Scenario-based policies grant access based on the situation. It provides users with the information they need based on their company role and project. When access is no longer needed, the system shuts down permissions.
Secure Access to Partners and Contractors: Most IAMs will provide secure access to users who require it, such as partners and contractors.
Pre-Fil Solutions: Pre-fill solutions leverage phone signals and other identity traits to allow customers to create accounts in under 10 seconds.
Identity Management: Management solutions identify customers by tokens that help manage contact information and increase accuracy and compliance. IAMs can create, modify, and delete users. They can also integrate with existing directories, so you don't have to start from scratch.
Identity Solutions: Identity solutions minimize threats by verifying identities and assigning real-time "trust scores" that monitor risks and confirm users are accessing the system with devices they own. They integrate with customer identification and compliance programs to reduce risk.
Provisioning and De-provisioning: Most IAMs will grant access to users based on roles that have been predetermined by the company. However, it is time-consuming to specify access to each resource for each worker. Provisioning allows IAMs to automatically grant access to users who are assigned certain roles. It also de-provisions by removing ex-employees from systems.
Reporting: IAMs can generate reports that reveal log-on time, the type of authentication used, and the systems accessed for each session. The reports give organizations greater insight into the possible security issues and the activity that takes place on their network.
Artificial Intelligence: AI monitors behaviors so it can scan for abnormalities that may present a risk. It also offers authentication methods that control access.
Access Blocking: IAMs will block access when a breached password is detected. It will not provide access until the password is reset. It analyzes data to detect blind spots.
External Integration: Most IAMs integrate with other company platforms, including social media, marketing, project management, IT, and more. They will provide security across the board.
Training and Support: Many IAM services provide training and support so users and administrators can understand how to control access.
Zero Trust Policy: A zero trust policy assumes all behavior is a threat and all visitors are malicious unless proven otherwise. It requires authentication to ensure information stays protected.
Security Access Markup Language: SAML allows users to log in to applications that have been integrated with IAM platforms. OpenID Connect (OIDC) serves a similar function but uses different standards and transmission methods to transmit the data.
Systems for Cross-Domain Identity Management: (SCIM) is a standard used when information is automatically exchanged across systems. It keeps systems up to date when new users are assigned or deleted, and when data is updated. While exploring the nuances of SCIM, it's crucial for businesses considering cloud-native solutions to understand the significance of choosing a SCIM provider. This decision can directly influence the efficiency and security of identity management processes within an organization.
What are the Benefits of IAM Solutions?
Centralized Trust Model: IAM solutions provide a centralized trust model so companies spend less for cyber-protection. It also enables users to work from any location or device.
Enhanced Security: Users who integrate IAM solutions can feel confident their systems are protected.
Resource-Level Access Control: Resource Level Access Control allows you to grant different permissions to different workers depending on their role in the company and the project they are working on.
Projected Growth of the IAM Market
The cloud computing market is growing in leaps and bounds. Cloud security, including IAM solutions, will follow in an upward trajectory.
The cloud market was valued at 483.98 billion in 2022. It is expected to grow at an annual growth rate of 14.1% from 2023 to 2030.
The IAM market was valued at 15.93 billion in 2022. It is expected to expand at a growth rate of 12.6% between 2023 and 2030.
The growth of both industries is telling of the trends that will shape the digital landscape.
More of today's companies are relying on the cloud. They need the security software that will keep them protected.
IAM is a type of security that oversees user access and management. It controls which users are granted access and what information they can access. It reduces the risk that your data will get into the wrong hands.