Navigating the alphabet soup of identity management can be daunting. Here’s an updated guide to help you understand the essential acronyms in identity and access management (IAM), enriched with the latest industry insights and terms.
IdM — Identity Management
Identity management (IdM) encompasses processes and tools used to manage digital identities. It ensures that only authorized individuals have access to systems and that identity information is current and secure.
IAM — Identity and Access Management
IAM refers to the processes and technologies used to manage digital identities and control access to resources. It includes tools for user authentication, authorization, and audit. Modern IAM solutions integrate with cloud services, supporting scalable and secure access.
IdP — Identity Provider
An IdP is a trusted software platform or service that acts as a clearinghouse for identity information, authentication, and auditing. Common examples are Active Directory and related services, as well as solutions that provide adaptive identity verification, such as SecureAuth products. Identity providers can be accessed both by end users (such as when they log in to a desktop) and by other software platforms (programmatically).
IDaaS — Identity as a Service
Identity as a Service (IDaaS) delivers identity management solutions via the cloud. It provides scalable and flexible identity services, including authentication, authorization, and user management. Leading IDaaS providers offer integration with existing identity systems and support for federated identity management.
SSO — Single Sign-On
Single Sign-On (SSO) allows users to log in once and access multiple applications without re-entering credentials. SSO enhances user experience and security by centralizing authentication and reducing password fatigue. Common SSO protocols include SAML and OAuth.
SAML — Security Assertion Markup Language
SAML is an open standard for exchanging authentication and authorization data between parties. It enables SSO by allowing an IdP to share identity assertions with service providers, ensuring secure and seamless access to multiple applications.
OAuth — Open Authorization
OAuth is a protocol that allows third-party applications to access user resources without sharing credentials. It is widely used for delegated access, enabling secure interactions between applications and services, such as granting a social media app access to a user’s profile.
OpenID Connect (OIDC)
OIDC is an authentication layer built on OAuth 2.0. It enables clients to verify user identities and obtain basic profile information. OIDC is commonly used in modern web applications and mobile apps for secure and straightforward user authentication.
MFA/2FA — Multi-Factor Authentication/Two-Factor Authentication
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) and Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) enhance security by requiring additional verification methods beyond a username and password. MFA can include something you know (password), something you have (smartphone), and something you are (biometrics).
FIDO2 — Fast Identity Online
FIDO2 is a set of standards for strong authentication, providing passwordless login experiences. It includes the WebAuthn API and the Client to Authenticator Protocol (CTAP), enabling secure access through biometrics and hardware tokens.
OTP — One-Time Password
A One-Time Password (OTP) is a temporary code used for a single login session. OTPs enhance security by providing an additional authentication factor, often delivered via SMS, email, or dedicated apps like Google Authenticator.
RADIUS — Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service
RADIUS is a protocol for centralized authentication, authorization, and accounting. It is commonly used for network access control, including WiFi and VPN services, ensuring secure and auditable user access.
Zero Trust
Zero Trust is a security model that assumes no implicit trust within the network. It requires continuous verification of user identity and device health, enforcing strict access controls and least privilege principles to minimize security risks.
CIAM — Customer Identity and Access Management
Customer Identity and Access Management (CIAM) focuses on managing customer identities and providing secure, seamless access to services. CIAM solutions enhance user experience through features like SSO, social login, and personalized authentication.
PAM — Privileged Access Management
Privileged Access Management (PAM) controls and monitors access to critical systems by privileged users. It includes tools for managing admin accounts, session recording, and enforcing least privilege policies to protect against insider threats.
Biometrics
Biometrics involve using physical characteristics, such as fingerprints or facial recognition, for authentication. Biometric authentication enhances security by leveraging unique and hard-to-replicate user attributes.
Adaptive Authentication
Adaptive Authentication dynamically adjusts security requirements based on risk factors. It evaluates user behavior, location, and device to determine the appropriate authentication method, balancing security and user convenience.
Blockchain for Identity
Blockchain technology is increasingly used for decentralized identity management. It provides secure, tamper-proof identity verification and reduces reliance on central authorities, enhancing privacy and control over personal data.
Understanding these key acronyms and terms is crucial for navigating the identity and access management landscape. As technology evolves, staying informed about the latest developments and best practices ensures robust and effective identity management strategies.
For more information, on the range of capabilities in SecureAuth’s Workforce or Customer Identity and Access Management solutions, book a demo.