Our business world is becoming increasingly digital. Employees log into the company network from home, customers use company platforms, all while cyber criminals are on the lookout for loopholes. In industry in particular there is also the aspect of machines: Internet of Things devices also have a digital identity that is uniquely determined by IP addresses, digital certificates or encrypted hardware components, among other things. This makes it clear that the administration of numerous accesses from many different sources must be controlled efficiently in order to maintain an overview and only allow authorised accesses. Sound like security to your ears? That may be true, but IAM systems can do much more:
- They automate routine tasks such as granting or revoking access rights, for example for hiring or terminations
- and delegate the administration of department-relevant processes to the corresponding departments. This relieves IT and accelerates internal company processes.
- They enable self-services with which users can independently set up access or authorisations according to predefined framework conditions,
- while supporting the simple and efficient fulfilment of documentation and verification obligations. Examples are the requirements of the European General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) or the requirements for operators of critical infrastructures (CRITIS).
The IAM is a central switching point for identities and accesses. In addition to the processes initiated by employees or other stakeholders themselves, it also provides information via dashboards, e-mails or reports when action is required. For example, no account of an employee who has left the company is forgotten—a potential vulnerability through which attackers can gain access to the company network. It is possible to adjust the level of detail individually: For example, resources can be classified differently and different groups of people such as interns or business partners can be assigned individual specifications and rights.
Identity management: Why it’s so hard to get started.
If IAMs are so versatile and helpful, why do so many companies choose not to use them? One of the main reasons is that the issue of identity management can sometimes seem confusing because it affects not only IT, but all people and devices that are in electronic contact with an organisation. Often, the view of the big picture is missing, and sometimes even the idea of where to start with such a project is overwhelming. Our advice is to start where it is needed most. The solutions can grow with their tasks, whether it is “merely” access management or full-blown and extensive network monitoring.
Experience shows that many companies still find it difficult to identify and prioritise their fields of action. To help these companies, experts have developed IAM scoping, a structured preliminary project for a potential IAM introduction. Together with our clients, we analyse the current situation, from which we derive and prioritise their requirements. This is followed by a defining the goal. Finally, together we create a concrete plan for implementation. The whole process only takes a few days, however it has an immense pay-off. After all, what good is rapid progress if it goes in the wrong direction?
How to choose the right Identity and Access Management for your company.
Companies remain in the driving seat at all times and set the pace. If required, we are also happy to help with the selection of the appropriate IAM system. The market is confusing and the individual decision depends on the need and the respective IT strategy. The spectrum ranges from standard solutions to custom software. It should be noted that the usually higher investment in a customised IAM should be considered in the context of potentially greater benefits.
Which model is best suited to your organisation? We’re happy to help. Get in touch to find out more about IAM solutions in particular or our IT security services and solutions.
