Identity Access Management – IAM

Identity Access Management, or IAM, is a framework of technologies and policies used to ensure that the right individuals have the appropriate access to digital resources. IAM systems are essential for managing user identities, authenticating access, and enforcing security across IT environments.

These systems control who can log in, what information they can access, and what actions they can perform. IAM helps organizations reduce risk by limiting unauthorized access to sensitive systems and data. Common tools in IAM include login portals, single sign-on systems, multi-factor authentication, and centralized identity directories.

Key Aspects

• IAM helps organizations manage digital identities and restrict access to only those users with verified permissions.
• Authentication and authorization are the two primary processes within IAM, used to verify user identity and grant access.
• IAM systems commonly support Single Sign-On (SSO), which lets users access multiple services with one set of credentials.
• Security tools like Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) are often built into IAM to increase protection against unauthorized access.
• IAM platforms work with directories such as Active Directory and cloud tools like Azure AD and Okta for centralized management.

Identity and Access Control

Identity Access Management begins with assigning a unique identity to each user, such as an employee, contractor, or partner. These identities are stored in a secure directory, where IT systems track user attributes, such as names, roles, departments, and access permissions. Identity data is used to determine what systems or data a person should be allowed to access.

Access control enforces the rules based on these identities. Once a user logs in, IAM tools evaluate the user’s role and determine what actions are allowed, such as viewing, editing, or deleting information. Access control systems can follow models like Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) or Attribute-Based Access Control (ABAC) to ensure accuracy and consistency.

Authentication and Authorization

Authentication and authorization are core IAM functions that work together to provide secure access. Authentication confirms that a user is who they claim to be. It usually involves a username and password, but in advanced systems, it may also require a code sent to a phone or fingerprint verification.

Authorization happens after authentication and determines what the user is allowed to do. For example, an authenticated user might be authorized only to view files, not change them. These two processes protect sensitive data and help organizations enforce security policies based on user roles and responsibilities.

Single Sign-On

Single Sign-On (SSO) is a convenient feature found in many IAM systems. It allows users to log in once and access multiple applications or systems without having to re-enter credentials. This reduces password fatigue and increases productivity while still maintaining secure access.

SSO works by using a central identity provider to manage login sessions. Once a user is verified, access tokens are shared securely with other connected systems. SSO is standard in workplace software suites and cloud platforms, where users may need to access email, documents, or databases during the same session.

Multi-Factor Authentication

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of security to the login process by requiring more than one form of verification. After entering a password, users might also need to enter a code sent by text, approve a push notification, or scan a fingerprint. This makes it harder for attackers to break in using stolen credentials.

MFA is especially useful in preventing breaches caused by weak or reused passwords. Many IAM systems allow organizations to enforce MFA only for sensitive actions or in high-risk situations, such as remote access. This balance helps maintain both security and user convenience.

Centralized Identity Management

Centralized identity management brings all user accounts and access permissions into a single system. Tools like Microsoft Active Directory, Azure Active Directory, and Okta are often used to manage user data, assign roles, and configure security policies. This approach simplifies user onboarding and offboarding and ensures that updates happen consistently across all systems.

By using a central source of truth, organizations can apply policies globally, such as locking accounts after failed logins or requiring password changes. This reduces administrative overhead and improves security by keeping identity data consistent and up to date across the IT environment.

Conclusion

Identity Access Management is a vital part of modern IT security, helping organizations control and protect access to systems and data. With the right tools and policies in place, IAM supports both user productivity and strong security practices.

Identity & Access Management (IAM) – 3 mins