What Are Identity And Access Management Tools?
Businesses must always know who is accessing their digital resources and all the activities happening on the network. That’s why online security is a priority for every business’s datacenter network administration strategy. One of the most effective ways to improve security is using Identity and Access Management tools.
What Are Identity and Access Management Tools?
IAM tools help administer network access rights management for businesses, teams, and clients. The main fundamental aspects of connection handled by Identity and Access Management tools include authenticating the user’s identity as they log into the system. Once granted access, the system validates the user’s permissions to highlight what they can do on the network, application, and what database they may access. The outlined permissions determine what role the user gets. It helps determine what a user can do with the account, including reading, editing, and administering.
In short, Identity and Access Management tools track and report on user activities across the network. Some tools come with different levels of functionality and security features. However, ideal IAM tools should also include the following features:
- Easy password policy implementation
- Quick, Easy Administration
- Adhere to compliance regulations like HIPAA and GDPR
- Capacity to manage thousands/millions of accounts worldwide
- Cross-Application/Network Authentication
Advantages of Using IAM Tools
- Employing Identity and Access Management tools for your business delivers many advantages, including:
- Enhanced User account and accesses and privileges
- Cross-organization Onboarding
- Secure, compliant, and reliable business operations
- Cloud-based access and control, worldwide
- Individual applications access control, APIs, and services
- Minimum data risks
- Improved user experience, SSO features, and custom interfaces
The Best Identity and Access Management Tools in the Market
Ping Identity
Ping IAM is an advanced security tool that works on all devices, handles millions of accounts, and enhances cloud security without compromising user experience. No wonder financial and banking institutions consider it a favorite. It is an IAM service market leader. It is compatible with Cloud, On-premises, and hybrid environments.
SailPoint IdentityIQ
SailPoint IAM is highly renowned for strong Identity Governance and provisioning. It delivers future-proof security using AI and Machine Learning services compatible with both cloud and on-premises environments. This Identity and Access Management tool is ideal for businesses that need their IAM handled by pros without hiring in-house experts. You can use SailPoint Identity IQ as a standalone, on-premises service or purchase it as an Identity-as-a-Service (IDaaS) solution.
SolarWinds Access Rights Manager
This IAM tool provides logging and auditing solutions to ensure data compliance, data-loss prevention, threat hunting, and access rights management. The Access Rights Manager gives users greater control over credentials by examining the relationships between users, resources, and account activities. It is ideal for businesses that require effective data security compliance.
Moreover, tool has an analysis module that hunts threats using features like insider threat detection to identify abnormal account activities. It also identifies dormant, inactive accounts, which may serve as an entry point for hackers to break into your system.
Microsoft Azure Active Directory
Azure Active Directory is a comprehensive cloud tool that quickly integrates with networks and existing access control systems. Microsoft makes this IAM tool perfect for its operating system and servers to deliver top-class Windows Server integrations. It efficiently manages access rights for thousands of login accounts.
Organizations can also leverage one authorization credential to give members access and launch cloud apps. It is an inherent component of Microsoft Office 365, Azure, and Enterprise Mobility and security. However, you can also purchase it as a standalone application, including some premium, additional features.
Oracle Identity Cloud Service
Oracle specializes in database software and middleware. It provides free cloud services to businesses, including data storage, networking, and application testing. It also provides an IAM solution that prioritizes data security with advanced features that help enterprises centralize user Access control over data.
Oracle IAM is compatible with any device (mobile, laptop, desktop, or tablet) using any network architecture. It is highly scalable and ideal for continuously transforming or growing businesses. The platform delivers innovative scalability across industry-leading IAM services and applications, including:
Social Media Platforms: Twitter, Facebook, Google
SaaS: Google Suite, AWS, Asana, Slack
Web or Native Apps: Using SDKs for Android, Java, iOS, Python
The service is free and works seamlessly across the Oracle Cloud infrastructure. Oracle offers a free version of Identity Cloud Services for its Oracle Cloud Infrastructure, Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), and Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS) customers.
IBM Security Identity and Access Assurance
IBM IAM does not monopolize resources. It operates in the background and is compatible with on-premise, cloud, and hybrid networks. The tool synchronizes with business processes without disturbing operations. Other IAM approaches put security in the user’s face. A unique feature with IBM Identity Access Management is the protection of privileged accounts using enterprise-grade password security alongside Privileged Access Management.
For businesses looking to take security to the next level, IBM IAM provides authentication features such as biometrics, Soft Tokens, TouchID, Face ID, Email or SMS One-Time-Passwords (OTP). It monitors accounts and verifies identities discreetly using AI and analytics features to make smarter decisions and manage user accessibility in case of conflicting privileges.
