IAM, PAM: concrete definitions of these cybersecurity acronyms

IAM: definition and features

IAM is the acronym for Identity and Access Management . It is the set of processes, technologies and policies aimed at Manage digital identities and control access rights within an organization.

 

Here are some examples of the key features of an IAM solution:

 

• Create, modify and delete user accounts;
• Create a single sign-on (SSO) that allows access to multiple applications by logging in once;
• Enhance security with robust authentication mechanisms, such as multi-factor authentication (MFA);
• Assign to each person rights adapted to his or her role and level of responsibility in the company;
• Track and audit connections to IT systems to spot any suspicious activity.

 

IAM solutions can be integrated into the entire information system (cloud, internal applications, etc.) and are aimed at all “standard” users in the organization: employees, partners, customers, suppliers, service providers, etc.

 

Among the IAM solutions available on the market, we can mention: Okta, Ping Identity, Microsoft Entra ID, OneLogin…

PAM: definition and functionalities

PAM is the acronym for Privileged Access Management. It is in fact a subcategory of the IAM, with a more restricted scope. This solution is aimed at accounts with high rights in the information system: developers, Information Systems Security Managers (CISOs) (Information Systems Security Managers), Network Engineers, System Administrators, etc.

 

These so-called “privileged” accounts allow access to several strategic and highly sensitive resources, such as servers, databases, cloud management consoles, infrastructure configurations, etc. All of these elements which, in the event of a compromise, can lead to massive data leaks or total control of the information system by a malicious actor.

 

The role of the PAM is therefore to monitor, control and protect these accesses and privileges to avoid the slightest incident and limit security breaches.

 

Here are some of the key features of a PAM solution:

 

• Automatic password rotation to reduce the risk of leakage;
• Storage of privileged credentials in a digital vault;
• Secure management of privileged sessions (recording, real-time supervision, disconnection of high-risk accounts, etc.);
• Full traceability of the actions carried out by the directors;
• …

 

Among the PAM solutions available on the market, we can mention: CyberArk, BeyondTrust, Delinea or Wallix Bastion…

Why implement IAM and PAM solutions in your organization?

The implementation of IAM and PAM solutions in your company is, more than ever, imperative to protect yourself from computer attacks, which are increasingly sophisticated.

 

This makes it possible to:

 

• Reduce the risk of cyberattacks;
• Preserve the integrity of sensitive data;
• Ensure regulatory compliance (ISO 27001, GDPR – General Data Protection Regulation, etc.);
• Improve the user experience (thanks to the automatic creation and deletion of user accounts, automated rights management, a single connection to all applications, etc.);
• Strengthen governance and traceability of access (we know who is accessing what, in real time);
• Detect, as early as possible, suspicious behaviour and possible threats and thus strengthen the control of cyber risks;
• …

IAM and PAM project: why call on an interim manager?

An IAM/PAM project is a complex project, which requires multiple and very specialized skills in cybersecurity, but also in project management and change management. It is also a very time-consuming and delicate project, which usually takes several months and requires the handling of several sensitive data.

However, the lack of time and skills can make this project particularly difficult to manage internally. In such a case, call on An interim manager specializing in IT security is a solution that is both reliable and secure.

Thanks to his in-depth expertise, his long experience in the field and his immediate operational excellence, this seasoned professional is your best ally to secure the implementation of IAM and PAM solutions within your organization.

During his intervention (which generally lasts between 6 and 18 months), he will be able to define a roadmap aligned with the company’s strategic objectives and its regulatory constraints; carry out an audit of the existing system; Identify priority actions and develop a tailor-made action plan. He also supports decision-makers in the choice of technological solutions, publishers and integrators. In addition, The interim director of cybersecurity is also responsible for leading the project team, coordinating the various stakeholders and managing relations with external service providers.

Beyond the technical and operational aspect, he also has the key role of supporting this change on a human, cultural and organizational level. He manages any Resistance to change, trains teams, identifies weak signals, ensures collective buy-in to this digital transformation project and transmits a real culture of cybersecurity.

Are you looking for an interim manager who is an expert in cybersecurity? At WAYDEN, we identify, within our pool of interim managers, an experienced professional, specialized in the management of cyber projects, to support you in the implementation of IAM and PAM solutions.

Contact us to find out more.