A – C – D – F – G – H – I – J – K – L – M – N – O – P – R – S – T – U – V – Z

Access Certification
Access certification is a process in which organizations review user access to their systems and data to ensure that it meets security, compliance, and governance standards. This type of certification involves periodic reviews of user accounts and privileges, as well as granting or revoking access when necessary. During the review process, organizations will verify that users have appropriate levels of access based on their roles within the company and ensure that they only have access to the resources they need to perform their duties. Access Certification can help an organization maintain visibility into who has what level of access, providing an added layer of security against malicious actors trying to gain control of sensitive information or assets.

Access Discovery

Access discovery is an essential component of a secure network and IT infrastructure. The process involves assessing which user accounts have access to an organization’s systems and data, as well as understanding when, where, and how they are accessing these resources. Discovery also includes understanding the different types of access that users can have (ex. administrative or privileged) and determining who has elevated levels of access rights. Access Discovery can help organizations quickly identify any potential security gaps in their systems and effectively reduce the risk of malicious actors infiltrating their networks.

Access Management

Access Management (AM) is the process of controlling which identities has access to an organization’s systems and data. This includes setting up authorized users, defining roles and rights, developing policies and procedures for granting access, enforcing security measures such as authentication protocols, and curating user access. It also involves revoking access at the end of a user’s tenure or when their permissions need to be updated. Access management helps organizations ensure that only authorized users can gain access to their environment, providing an added layer of security to protect confidential information from unauthorized actors.

Active Directory

Active directory is Microsoft’s identity management service that enables organizations to control access to their data and IT resources. It provides a centralized platform for user authentication, authorization, policy enforcement, and reporting. Active Directory helps administrators manage user accounts, enable SSO access, and ensure secure access to resources by setting up rules and restrictions on user activities. Through its multi-tier hierarchy of organizational units (OUs), groups, and users, Active Directory is a powerful tool for securing an organization’s networks and data.

Advanced Persistent Threat

Advanced persistent threat (APT) is a type of cyberattack in which an attacker gains unauthorized access to a target’s computer system over an extended period, usually through multiple methods. The primary goal of the attack is to gain persistent access and evade detection while stealing confidential data or disrupting/damaging the target system. APTs employ sophisticated tactics such as privilege escalation and lateral movement to gain access to sensitive data and critical assets. They also rely on obfuscation and deception techniques to hide from traditional security solutions. To protect against advanced persistent threats, organizations must adopt comprehensive security measures that include careful monitoring, incident response planning, and layered defenses that cover both endpoints and networks.

Attack Surface

Attack surface refers to the total number of potential entry points that can be exploited by an attacker. It is made up of all the attack vectors and associated components (e.g., applications, services, networks) that a system has and can be quite large due to its numerous components. By knowing their attack surface, companies can develop proactive defense strategies and deploy adequate security controls to mitigate or prevent attacks from occurring. Additionally, understanding the attack surface helps organizations stay ahead of current threats and adjust their security measures as needed to stay secure.

Authentication Authorization

Authentication authorization ensures that only authorized users have access to protected resources. Authentication typically involves verifying a user’s identity, while authorization is the process of granting or denying access based on predefined criteria. Organizations can leverage a variety of authentication technologies such as MFA, biometrics, tokens, and certificates to verify user identity. Authorization often relies on role-based access control (RBAC) to define the resources that each user or group can access and which actions they can take. By combining authentication with authorization, enterprises can ensure that only authenticated users are granted appropriate access rights.

California Consumer Privacy Act

The Californian Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) is a 2018 California state law which requires any business collecting information on Californian customers to comply with legal protections regarding the citizens’ private data. Though the law only applies to California residents, the Act has become a template for privacy expectations across the United States. Because so many technology companies and consumers reside within California, most major tech providers have elected to implement CCPA compliance within their organizations. The benefits of these standards, including personal data and privacy management, are reaped by customers across the world.

CI/CD Pipeline

CI/CD, or continuous integration/continuous delivery, is an automated workflow that allows developers to build, test, and deploy software applications. In the CI/CD pipeline, developers write code in a version control system such as Git or Subversion. This code is then subjected to automated tests and builds before being pushed into production. With a CI/CD Pipeline, deployments become highly reproducible across different environments and teams can collaborate efficiently on new features without the fear of introducing unexpected errors.

Cloud Infrastructure Entitlement Management

Cloud infrastructure entitlement management (CIEM) is a unique and relatively young branch of AM centered specifically around cloud computing. CIEM deals with the challenges of the cloud’s decentralized structure and proclivity towards unchecked permissions. This loose approach to security can result in an exceptionally vulnerable attack surface and challenging remediation of breaches due to a lack of proper tracking. A digital transformation through a managed identity service is often the only way to fully institute secure CIEM.

Customer Identity and Access Management

Customer identity and access management (CIAM) is a subset of IAM focused specifically on the profiles of customers rather than employees and partners. In addition to the standard IAM concerns such as efficiency and security, CIAM also emphasizes user experience, placing special importance on minimizing the friction experienced by customers. These systems may have different infrastructure from internal IAM due to the external nature of the users and often focus on user interface features. However, an increasing number of identity services use the same system for both B2B and B2C, designing a single system that allows for the demarcation of privileges between users. This allows for employees to enjoy the benefits of a user-focused interface.

Chief Information Security Officer

A Chief information security officer (CISO) is a high-level employee responsible for protecting an enterprise’s critical data. CISOs are the standard point of contact with outside IAM experts during implementation and for internal employees experiencing difficulties with their security. CISOs must possess a high degree of interpersonal skills as well as deep technical knowledge, making this crucial position difficult to fill with the right person.

Cyber-Attack Chain

Cyber-attacks often consist of a chain of events that allow malicious actors to gain access to a system or network and cause disruption. These attacks typically begin when attackers use methods such as phishing, malware, or social engineering to gain initial entry into the target environment. This is followed by a reconnaissance phase where they attempt to identify weaknesses and vulnerabilities in the compromised infrastructure. Once these are identified, they may then move laterally within the network and steal credentials and steal data. Finally, they carry out their attack which could range from ransomware deployment to data exfiltration. Cyber-attack chains can be complex and require multiple stages of defense to counter.

Cyber Insurance

A form of insurance designed to protect businesses and individuals from the cost associated with cyber-attacks. It provides financial protection for organizations that fall victim to malicious activities such as data breaches, phishing attacks, malicious software, or ransomware. The policy will also typically provide coverage for legal costs associated with defending a claim, restoring lost data, repairing damaged systems, and notifying affected customers. Cyber Insurance is an essential part of any organization’s risk mitigation plan as it helps to minimize the potential financial impact of a cyber-attack.

Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity is the practice of protecting networks, systems, and programs from digital attacks. These attacks are usually aimed at accessing, changing, or destroying sensitive information, extorting money from users, or interrupting normal business processes. Cybersecurity relies on a combination of technologies for defense, such as firewalls and antivirus software, as well as policies and procedures to protect vulnerable points of access. Training and education are also important components as all stakeholders need to be aware of potential threats and how to mitigate them. Cybersecurity is an ever-evolving field as attackers continually look for new ways to gain access and exploit weaknesses in organizations’ defenses.

Data Breach

A data breach occurs when sensitive, confidential, or protected information is accessed and disclosed without authorization. This information can include credit card numbers, Social Security numbers, customer records, health information, and more. Data breaches typically occur when a hacker gains access to an organization’s network through a security vulnerability or malicious attack. Once inside the system, the attacker can steal data or install malware that can spread throughout the organization. As such, it’s important for organizations to have strong cybersecurity systems in place as this will reduce their risk of becoming victims of a data breach.

Digital Transformation

Digital transformation, also known as IAM modernization, is the implementation of a sweeping overhaul and upgrade to an enterprise’s identity and access processes. This can involve migrating from legacy approaches and profiles to more modern solutions. Digital transformation also involves integrating user data with the organization’s network and systems, providing a single source for access control and identity management. Additionally, it requires continuous monitoring to ensure that all components are up-to-date and secure, limiting the risk of data breaches or other malicious activities.

FIDO

FIDO, or Fast ID Online, is standardized set of authentication protocols intended to shift users over to password-less verification methods such as biometrics, paired devices, and MFA. This shift is advocated for and practiced by the FIDO alliance, an open association of companies looking to accelerate the global shift away from passwords. Their guidelines form a basic rubric for the minimum amount of support needed for passwordless systems. However, the list does not require the identity tracking crucial for comprehensive Zero Trust implementation.

GDPR

GDPR, or the General Data Protection Regulation, is a European regulation introduced in 2016 to give people control over the way their personal data is used and handled by organizations. GDPR focuses on protecting any information that can be used to identify an individual, such as name, address, or date of birth. Under GDPR, organizations must inform people when they are collecting their data and what it will be used for. They must also ensure that the data is kept secure and only used for its intended purpose. In addition, individuals have the right to request access to their data and ask for it to be amended or deleted if necessary.

Healthcare Cybersecurity

Healthcare cybersecurity involves implementing measures such as encryption, access control, user authentication and identity management, as well as ensuring that staff receives appropriate training on how to handle sensitive data securely. It also requires frequent monitoring of networks and systems to detect any potential security threats or breaches. Investing in robust healthcare cybersecurity is necessary to ensure the safety of patients’ data and provide high quality care without compromising patient confidentiality.

IAM

IAM, or identity and access management, is the combined practice of AM and IM. An IAM solution references a user’s identity to determine which resources they are authorized to use, all in a single framework. The IAM apparatus encompasses four main pillars: AM, CIAM, IGA, and PAM. Taken together, this “identity fabric” is meant to provide users with a secure and frictionless means of accessing the applications and data they are authorized to use. At the same time IAM provides extensive analytics on who is using what, when and how they accessed it, and who authorized them. This creates a cohesive program that simultaneously offers excellent security and user experiences.

IAM Application Onboarding

IAM application onboarding is the process of setting up and managing user accounts, privileges, and access rights when a new application is introduced in an organization. This process involves understanding what users require to interact with the application, which privileges they need to be granted and how existing IAM systems will accommodate the integration. It also requires careful planning to ensure that users have appropriate access without compromising security or compliance policies. During onboarding, organizations should consider authentication protocols, user provisioning, risk management policies and authorization standards for continued access control. By establishing an efficient IAM onboarding process, organizations can streamline user management processes as well as overall efficiency of their IAM system.

IAM Assessment

IAM assessments are typically conducted by an outside audit firm to identify areas where processes can be improved, policies updated, or new technologies implemented. During an IAM Assessment, organizations should expect to have their identity management’s roles and permissions analysis, privileged user analysis, data classification analysis, and security incident response plan reviewed. By taking a comprehensive approach to IAM assessments, companies can improve the overall security posture of their organization.

IAM Roadmapping

IAM roadmapping is the process of mapping out the future goals of an organization’s IAM program, assessing current processes and policies, integrating new technologies, establishing best practices, and developing a timeline for implementation. With IAM roadmapping, companies can develop long-term plans to ensure their digital identities are secure, scalable, and meet regulatory obligations. Additionally, the roadmap helps identify gaps in existing security measures as well as potential areas of improvement to ensure the IAM system remains effective over time.

Identity as a Service (IDaaS)

Identity as a service (IDaaS) is an authentication and access management solution that helps businesses secure their networks and applications. IDaaS allows organizations to quickly set up secure user accounts with the help of cloud-based services and provides one-click access to web-based applications and resources. It also helps organizations manage identity information for users, including passwords, usernames, email addresses, and other credentials. By using IDaaS, businesses can ensure their network security is up to date while simplifying the overall identity management processes. Additionally, it can help increase employee productivity by streamlining the authentication process while providing a single sign-on experience across multiple application environments.

Identity Lifecycle Management

Identity lifecycle management (ILM) is a process for managing the identities of people and organizations within an enterprise. It covers all aspects of the identity lifecycle, from initial registration to deletion or deactivation at the end of a user’s term. ILM helps administrators manage user access rights, keep track of who can do what with which systems, control access over time, and bolster security practices.

Identity Management

Identity management (IM) is the overarching database management of a user’s profile containing their unique attributes. This can be thought of like a driver’s license (documentation recording who you are) which can be referenced for verification. This is the most basic component of IAM and has existed for much longer. Even a physical filing cabinet full of identity records would technically count as identity management. In the digital age those files have become a means of enabling authorization, allowing a stable point of reference for privileges and access so long as they are kept secure.

IGA

IGA, or Identity Governance and Administration, is the active practice of provisioning, monitoring, and disabling identities. A robust IGA solution improves efficiency through automation, enforcing pre-set policies by checking privileges against the category of identity a user possesses. This also extends to automatically removing orphan accounts which are no longer in use and could present a security risk. IGA can control all these identities and entitlements from a single viewpoint, giving administrators an easier time controlling accounts and through analytics of how they are being used.

Implementation Partner

An implementation partner is a company that provides expertise with integrating software or technology solutions. Partners help organizations assess their needs, identify the most effective and cost-efficient solutions, and manage the implementation process to ensure that it meets the organization’s requirements. This includes ongoing training and support to ensure the organization remains up to date with latest developments in their industry.

Internet of Things (IoT)

The Internet of Things (IoT) is a growing network of linked smart devices offering increased performance as well as greater security risks over a larger attack surface. Competent IAM procedures and managed identity services must address IoT devices and the associated cybersecurity risks whenever paired devices are involved. This includes making sure that authentication is secure and that access permissions are properly set.

Just-In-Time Access (JITA)

Just-in-time access (JITA) is a user access control model that provides users with access to resources only when they need them and only for the duration of their task. This ensures that users are granted access to applications or other resources on an as needed basis and helps organizations maintain greater control and security over user authorization. To implement JITA, organizations can set up specific timeframes for user authentication and clearly define when a user’s access expires.

Key Performance Indicators

Key performance indicators (KPIs) are a quantifiable value used as a measure of how well a company is achieving its business objectives. While the term KPI is associated with the results of business investments in general, it is frequently employed within the identity industry as a shorthand for the success of an IAM program. Common IAM KPIs include boosted efficiency, time to implementation, and money saved. These deliverables are used as the standard measurement for whether or not a digital transformation can be considered successful.

Lightweight Directory Access Protocol

Lightweight Directory Access Protocol (LDAP) is an industry-standard protocol for managing directory information. LDAP provides a distributed, extensible platform for storing and accessing user data both on-premises and in the cloud. It enables organizations to manage their users, groups, and other objects via directory services like Microsoft Active Directory or OpenLDAP. Users can use LDAP to access applications, services, and resources securely without having to type in usernames or passwords each time they log in. Additionally, LDAP is widely used to enable SSO authentication across multiple applications and networks. By leveraging the powerful features of LDAP such as flexible search filters, secure authentication protocols, and fine-grained access control policies, organizations can easily manage users’ access rights while increasing their overall security posture.

Machine Learning

Machine learning (ML) is the automatic and iterative process of collecting and leveraging data to improve system performance. By leveraging ML technologies, organizations can deploy more effective IAM processes that are not only more secure but also more efficient. Examples of ML-based IAM solutions include advanced authentication methods such as biometrics and facial recognition, anomaly detection tools that detect suspicious activities, and predictive analytics engines that can identify potential risk factors or security issues before they occur.

Malware Attacks

Malware attacks are a hacking method wherein a malicious software is downloaded onto a system to target sensitive data, corrupt vital system files, or infiltrate malicious code. Malware is typically delivered through phishing emails or malicious websites, making it important for organizations to enforce strict email policies and educate users on how to spot potential malicious sites. It is also essential for organizations to keep their systems up to date with the latest security patches to prevent malware from taking advantage of known vulnerabilities. Antivirus programs can help block known threats before they can execute on a user’s device, but smart practice and policy remains the best defense.

Managed Service Provider

A Managed service provider (MSP) is a company outside of an enterprise brought on to design, implement, and remotely manage a customer’s Identity and Access systems. The best MSPs create bespoke systems tailored to the specific needs of their client, greatly reducing the time, effort, and money required to get an IAM solution up and running. Due to the dearth of identity expertise within most enterprises, contracting an MSP to advise on, implement, and operate an IAM solution is widely regarded as a smart investment. When selecting a prospective MSP, businesses should consider the provider’s experience, adaptability, talent pool, focus, and financial stability.

Multi-Factor Authentication

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is an increasingly important security measure for organizations to protect against malicious actors. MFA works by requiring users to provide two or more pieces of information to authenticate their identity, such as a combination of a password and a one-time code sent via SMS. This ensures that even if a user’s password becomes compromised, the system will still be secure as the hacker would need the second factor to gain access. In addition to being more secure, MFA can also make logging in faster and easier from any location, since users won’t need to remember complex passwords. To maximize security, organizations should make sure that their MFA configurations are optimized in accordance with industry best practices, such as avoiding weak passwords and disabling easily guessable security questions.

NIST Cybersecurity Framework

The NIST Cybersecurity Framework (NCF) is a set of guidelines and best practices developed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to help organizations protect their data and systems from cyber threats. The NCF consists of five core functions – Identify, Protect, Detect, Respond and Recover – that cover all aspects of cybersecurity, including risk assessment, access control, incident response and more. By following the guidance in the NCF, organizations can develop resilient cybersecurity systems that are tailored to the specific needs of their environment.

Orphaned Account

Orphaned accounts are user profiles that no longer need access to a system yet still exist, often with full permissions. Orphaned accounts can be difficult to detect as they may not have been used in months or even years, thus organizations should take proactive steps to identify and revoke outstanding access privileges. Doing so keeps networks secure and protected from unauthorized access or data breaches. Additionally, all users should adhere to strong password policies and use MFA whenever possible to provide an additional layer of security.

Over-Provisioned User Accounts

Over provisioned user accounts are a security concern wherein individuals have access rights or privileges that are beyond their need or job function. This creates a larger attack surface which can be exploited by attackers. To combat this problem, organizations must properly manage user accounts and ensure that individuals only have the access privileges necessary for their role. Additionally, organizations should regularly audit accounts and regularly review user permissions to identify and remove unnecessary access rights. By reducing the scope of over provisioned user accounts, organizations can reduce their risk of falling victim to malicious activity such as data theft or unauthorized system access.

Password

A password is a string of characters used for authenticating or accessing a system or application. Passwords are typically designed to be complex, highly secure, and nearly impossible to guess. When creating a new password, it is important to ensure that it is unique and unlike any other passwords you may have. It is also recommended to use a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols for added security. Additionally, all passwords should be changed on a regular basis to protect against hackers and other malicious actors.

Password Fatigue

Password fatigue occurs when a user becomes overwhelmed by the number of credentials they must remember and lets smart security practices falter as a result. Examples include easy-to-guess passwords or reusing the same password across multiple accounts. Password managers offer a solution to this laxity, and MFA should be enabled whenever possible in order to provide an extra layer of defense. Finally, organizations need to ensure that their employees are aware of best practices around strong passwords and providing proper training if needed. By taking these steps, both individuals and organizations can reduce their risk of suffering from password fatigue and remain secure online.

Passwordless Authentication

Passwordless authentication is a secure authentication method that eliminates the need for users to remember complex passwords. This type of authentication focuses on utilizing methods like biometrics, OTPs (One-Time Passwords) and MFA for verifying user identity. By removing the need for passwords, organizations can reduce their risk of falling victim to cyber threats such as credential stuffing or phishing attacks. Passwordless authentication also allows for easier access time for employees and customers, making it easier for them to safely access corporate resources or accounts.

Phishing Attack

Phishing attacks are a common social engineering tactic used by cyber criminals to gain access to sensitive information, steal money, or install malicious software. In a typical phishing attack, the attacker will disguise themselves as a trustworthy source and send emails with malicious links or attachments that can download malware onto the victim’s computer. It is important for organizations to educate their employees on recognizing signs of phishing attempts, such as misspelled words, suspicious emails from unrecognized sources, and requests for confidential information. Additionally, organizations should implement MFA for all online accounts and use strong passwords across all systems. By taking these steps, organizations can minimize their risk of falling victim to a phishing attack.

Principle of Least Privilege

The principle of least privilege (PoLP) is a maxim based on the idea that a user should only have the absolute minimum amount of access and entitlements necessary to complete their tasks. This mindset seeks to reduce the possible attack surface of an identity fabric, curating orphaned accounts and restricting privileges with the shortest downtime possible. PoLP is increasingly seen as the cornerstone of effective Zero Trust and the practical application of its core focus.

Privileged Access Management

Privileged access management (PAM) is an access system that applies the principles of role-based access control to enforce the principle of least privilege. PAM solutions provide automatic controls and safeguards to prevent accounts from becoming compromised by monitoring, detecting, and halting access to critical resources by unauthorized persons. PAM is considered to be the highest level of identity security and management with control over all subordinate domains and one of the most vital tools for remediating breach events and fortifying an attack surface.

Privileged Password Management

Privileged password management is the practice of protecting, controlling, and monitoring privileged access passwords for users or applications. It ensures that only authorized personnel have access to sensitive areas of a system, such as privileged accounts. Privileged Password Management includes features such as password rotation, MFA, and control over which users can reset passwords. By implementing robust Privileged Password Management procedures an organization can protect against unauthorized access to systems by ensuring credentials are secure and monitored in real-time. These measures help to ensure a secure IT environment and provide peace of mind that the organization’s confidential data is safe from malicious actors.

Privilege Sprawl

Privilege sprawl is a security threat that occurs when too many users, applications, or services have access to privileged accounts. This can lead to insecure configurations, unauthorized access to data, and malicious insiders being able to move laterally through a system. To reduce the risk of privilege sprawl, organizations must ensure that each user only has the minimum access needed and that privileged accounts are managed securely. Additionally, monitoring tools should be in place to detect inappropriate use of privileged accounts and enforce policies and procedures for how they are used. By taking these steps, companies can effectively manage their privileged accounts and protect themselves from privilege sprawl-related threats.

Ransomware

Ransomware is a malicious form of malware that encrypts or locks files, making them inaccessible to the user. It typically spreads through emails or other means of communication, and then requests payment from the user to regain access to files. Ransomware typically demands payment with untraceable cryptocurrency, in which case it becomes extremely difficult for victims to recover their data if they do not have a reliable backup. Cybersecurity professionals recommend that organizations have a comprehensive security plan in place to protect against ransomware attacks, such as regular backups, patching and updating systems, employee awareness training, and multiple layers of security on all internal networks.

Ransomware as a Service

Ransomware as a service (RaaS) is the malicious version of SaaS, wherein premade malware is sold to cybercriminals for use in their attacks. It can also refer to the “service” of a hacker restoring access after being paid their ransom. Both instances have dire implications for enterprises, with the former lowering the barrier of entry for potential bad actors and the latter costing businesses in capital, reputation, and even legal standing. Cybersecurity officers can sometimes trace a breach or attempted breach back to an RaaS offering, which can prove helpful in tracking down the perpetrator or discovering flaws in the ransomware.

Role-Based Access Control

Role-based access control is a security model where access and privileges are based on the user’s role within an organization. By instituting a policy of what access is conferred upon specific roles, identities can be automatically provisioned with the features appropriate to them. This model allows for greater control of potentially dangerous privileges by strictly limiting their usage to those who need them.

SANS

SANS, or SysAdmin, Audit, Network, and Security, is a major cybersecurity institute responsible for setting most accepted certification standards for IT and data security. The guidelines prescribed by the SANS Institute are often used as a reference point by IAM experts for the industry’s trends and best practices. Additionally, the Institute provides extensive training and certification in fields including cybersecurity, network defense, penetration testing, incident response, and digital forensics.

Secrets Management

Secrets management involves securely storing, managing, and rotating credentials such as passwords, tokens, private keys and certificates. Using a secrets management platform allows organizations to centrally control access to services for both people and applications in a safe and secure manner without having to share or store the actual secret value. By utilizing secrets management, organizations can ensure that credentials are only available to the necessary parties, reducing the risks associated with unauthorized access or malicious actors accessing sensitive data. Furthermore, secrets management helps automate common processes such as password rotation and revocation of credentials, making it easier for organizations to manage their digital authentication environment.

Security Assertion Markup Language

Security Assertion Markup Language (SAML) is an XML-based framework used for exchanging authentication and authorization data between parties. It enables organizations to securely share user data across different networks, creating a single sign-on experience for users. Through SAML, organizations can manage the authentication process and provide authorized access to users without requiring them to enter their credentials multiple times. This makes it easier for users to access the systems they need while maintaining a high level of security. By leveraging SAML, companies can reduce their attack surface and ensure that only authorized users can gain access.

Service-Level Agreement

The service-level agreement (SLA) is the contract between a customer and their service provider detailing the precise services the customer can expect to receive. These contracts are legally binding and should be the main point of reference for questions about the responsibilities assumed by the provider. SLAs made with managed identity services should emphasize factors such as delivery time, capacity, application integration, and troubleshooting support. The SLA should also specify which stages of the digital transformation are covered, including advisement, implementation, and operations.

Siloed Data

Siloed data occurs when a company’s data is stored in separate and isolated systems or databases. This can happen when different departments or units within the business keep their own records and don’t share information with each other. Siloed data can prevent organizations from getting the full picture of their operations, customers, and market trends. As such, it’s important for companies to create a logical path between data sources so that all relevant information is easily accessible by decision makers. Doing this will help them make better informed decisions, increase efficiency, and improve customer service.

Single Sign-On

Single sign-on (SSO) is a secure authentication model wherein one set of credentials is used to access multiple applications. An example would be logging in to a company website and immediately accessing both its employee insurance and workspace pages. SSO can greatly expedite the login process and make systems more secure by reducing the amount of attack surface available through multiple usernames and passwords. However, without an intelligent security system and a carefully considered policy, SSO can grant bad actors greater lateral movement through a single compromised password. As such, SSO is best implemented as part of a comprehensive identity solution.

Software as a Service

Software as a service (SaaS) is an emergent business model in which software is sold and used as a subscription rather than a traditional hard copy. SaaS allows for easier patching and can be easily downloaded off the internet, but the lack of a physical copy can prove detrimental if service is cut off. However, in most cases SaaS provides users with a much more accessible and up to date platform than traditional distribution methods.

Time to Value

Time to value (TTV) is a measure of how quickly an organization can benefit from a new product, service, or capability. It combines the time it takes to complete all tasks related to acquiring, deploying, and integrating a given solution as well as its ability to positively impact the bottom line. In a rapidly changing business environment, TTV has become increasingly important for organizations looking to stay competitive. Companies need to ensure that they can quickly adopt new technologies to remain agile and responsive. To this end, companies must take into consideration factors such as deployment cost and ease of implementation when selecting new solutions to maximize TTV and lower their total cost of ownership.

User Behavior Analytics

User behavior analytics (UBA) is a powerful cybersecurity tool used to identify and respond to abnormal or suspicious user behavior. UBA works by collecting data on user activities such as login attempts, file accesses and network accesses, and analyzing this data for any anomalies or unusual patterns. This helps organizations detect malicious activity that may have previously gone undetected, providing an additional layer of security against cyber threats like insider threats or advanced persistent attacks. By leveraging UBA, organizations are able to better protect their networks and sensitive data from potential intruders.

Virtual Directory

A virtual directory acts as a bridge between the authentication infrastructure maintained by organizations and cloud applications, providing single sign-on capabilities for users who need access to both on-premises and cloud-based applications. Virtual directories provide a single point of management for user identity, making control of access levels across different services easier. By using virtual directories, organizations can ensure that only authenticated users are able to gain access to systems, reducing their attack surface area and creating a secure environment for users to work in.

Zero Trust

Zero trust is a security concept which ensures that all entities are authenticated and authorized, regardless of their physical or virtual location. Zero Trust focuses on the principle of “never trust, always verify,” meaning all users and devices must be properly identified and authenticated in order to access resources. This is achieved by using an array of methods such as MFA, Geofencing and other adaptive authentication techniques. By leveraging Zero Trust within IAM, organizations can reduce their risk of unauthorized access to data and systems, ensuring only those with proper credentials can gain access.

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IAM solutions and the services that tie them together are a vital and necessary component of all successful modern businesses. By learning the language of identities and access, you are ready to make informed decisions about what your companies needs from an IAM solution.

Want to learn even more? Talk with a Simeio Identity Advisor now and get a personalized plan on how to achieve the most ideal IAM solution for your enterprise.