Users are using more and more different services and almost all of these systems require authentication by username and password. Security-conscious companies that want to introduce an IAM system should know that there is no single tool for the absolute minimization of identity-related risks. A comprehensive IAM strategy requires three tools: PAM (Privileged Access Management), SSO (Single Sign-On) and a Password manager. A closer look at each tool helps to get a better sense of the role each plays in the overall IAM system.
PAM (Privileged Access Management) offers companies a secure way to authorize and monitor privileged users with access to sensitive accounts. PAM can also prevent accidental or deliberate misuse of privileged access.
SSO (Single Sign-On) allows the company to grant its users secure access to multiple applications via a single login combination (user name and password) per session. After logging in, users are authorized for all applications to which they have access and which are covered by the SSO solution. SSO provides SAML authentication and communicates via Active Directory (AD). It is important to combine SSO with two-factor authentication to add a second layer of security for sensitive accounts.
Password manager is a secure method for companies to ensure that all users use strong passwords in all accounts. As with SSO, the user gains access to all login data via a master password. Unlike SSO, however, a password manager works for all user accounts (including cloud applications) and is not tied to one session. Here too, it is important to combine a password manager with two-factor authentication in order to add a second layer of security for sensitive accounts.
What is the best solution for your own IAM strategy?
If a company does not have to worry about money and is looking for control and security for its IT systems, a PAM solution is best suited. However, a PAM solution needs to be complemented by SSO and a password manager to ensure security throughout the organization. What’s the point of building a gate (for privileged users/systems) if it’s not part of the fence that protects your entire attack surface?
If you have decided on a PAM solution, then you are aware of the risks that arise if you do without SSO and a password manager. This is because it protects the numerous cloud, work and private accounts that offer the greatest attack surface in the company. If a company has a limited budget and still wants to secure all user accounts and achieve secure password behavior, a password manager is the best option.
A password manager is the best first step towards securing a company. Not only does it cover all user accounts, but it also enables and encourages a change in employee behavior. Instead of using the same password everywhere, a password manager allows employees to use unique, complex passwords for each account – whether it’s a cloud application, business or personal account. And they only need to remember one master password.
If a company has successfully implemented a password manager and is convinced of the benefits, it would make sense to consider an SSO solution, as this is the perfect complement to a password manager. In case the corporation wants to secure certain cloud applications and the business accounts of all users, an SSO solution is best suited. An SSO solution provides a good overview and protection for central products that an employee uses for professional purposes. Since the credentials covered by SSO are professional credentials and users need to access these accounts for work, there is naturally a high adoption rate among employees.
If a firm wants to secure certain cloud applications and the business accounts of all users, an SSO solution is best suited. An SSO solution provides a good overview and protection for central products that an employee uses for professional purposes. Since the credentials covered by an SSO are professional credentials and users need to access these accounts for work, there is naturally a high adoption rate among employees.
Why Password manager complement SSO perfectly?
A password manager complements Single Sign-On (SSO) perfectly by addressing security gaps and enhancing user convenience. While SSO simplifies access by allowing users to authenticate once and gain access to multiple applications, it relies heavily on the security of a single set of credentials. A password manager mitigates this risk by securely storing and managing complex passwords for non-SSO accounts, ensuring that all credentials are robust and unique. Additionally, password managers can autofill login details, streamlining access to legacy systems or external sites not integrated with the SSO system. This dual approach combines the ease of SSO with the comprehensive security of a password manager, providing a more holistic solution to access management.
The two biggest dangers with SSO solutions are as follows:
Cloud applications: SSO solutions cannot be used for all cloud applications, as some of them cannot be integrated. If a company uses dozens, if not hundreds, of cloud applications, they should be aware of the security gap that will exist.
Credentials for personal and business use: SSO solutions cannot be used for credentials that are used for both personal and business use and the many accounts that are not used for business purposes and require a password. Without a password manager, any personal account means a reused password or credentials that can be used to access your organization’s network or data.
The solution is simple: If a company uses an SSO solution or wants to introduce it as part of the IAM strategy, it should always be combined with a password manager to secure all user accounts and cloud applications and thus protect your entire network. In many cases, companies start with a low-cost solution that covers all areas, such as a password manager. This is already an important step towards greater security in the company, but you should be aware of the security gaps that exist if you only invest in a PAM or SSO solution.
A comprehensive Identity and Access Management (IAM) strategy requires a robust set of tools to ensure security, compliance, and operational efficiency. Core components include Single Sign-On (SSO) for streamlined access, Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) for enhanced security, and Privileged Access Management (PAM) to safeguard sensitive accounts. Together, these tools provide a layered defense, protect against unauthorized access, and facilitate seamless user experiences, forming the backbone of a resilient IAM strategy.