An introduction to access management
Access management refers to the set of processes and tools used to allow access to necessary information and resources within an organisation. Using digital identity, access management solutions authenticate users and devices and to grant or deny access based on predefined policies. It also involves monitoring and reporting on access events to detect and respond to potential security threats.
Why do you need access management?
Access management is essential for several reasons, primarily focusing on operational efficiency, security, and compliance.
Proper access management streamlines user access to necessary resources, improving productivity. Users receive appropriate access rights to perform their job functions while still maintaining security protocols.
Access management helps protect sensitive information from unauthorised access, reducing the risk of data breaches. By controlling who can access certain data or systems, organisations can prevent malicious attacks and insider threats.
Many industries are subject to regulations that require protection of sensitive data, such as healthcare, banking, and government services. Access management solutions help ensure that organisations comply with these regulations by enforcing consistent access controls and audit trails.
Types and examples of access management
Ensures that users are who they claim to be by requiring them to prove their identity before accessing resources. This can involve various methods such as passwords, biometrics, smart cards, or multifactor authentication (MFA).
Determines what resources a user can access and what they can do with those resources once access is granted. This is typically based on policies that consider the user's role within the organization, the context of the access request, and other factors.
Deals specifically with managing and monitoring access rights for users with elevated privileges, such as administrators and third parties. PAM tools help to secure, control, and audit all privileged accounts and activities.
What is third party privileged access management?
Managing third party access is crucial for several reasons, particularly when dealing with external entities like vendors, contractors, or partners who need access to an organisation's critical systems and data. This is increasingly important in today's interconnected business environment, where data breaches can have devastating financial and reputational consequences.
Identity and access management
Access management is a crucial component of Identity and Access Management (IAM) systems, which are designed to ensure that the right individuals access the right resources at the right times and for the right reasons.
Within the framework of IAM, access management serves as the gatekeeper, controlling and monitoring access to resources based on established identities and organisational policies. It not only supports security but also enhances operational efficiency and user experience in managing identities and access rights across diverse systems and environments.
