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The right identity management system can help you secure external user access to applications and systems. However, deploying and maintaining such a solution correctly takes time and skill.
Choose a solution that increases the interoperability between diverse IT environments with support for multiple network architectures, authentication and authorization protocols, operating systems, and business systems.
Cost
Whether it’s HIPAA (private health data), FERPA (detailed student records) or PCI DSS (payment card data), almost all businesses are subject to regulatory controls. An on-prem IAM system can be a good option for highly secure environments where compliance needs to be tightly controlled.
IAM systems can help companies solve the anywhere, anytime, from any device access challenge. They also make it easier for IT departments to give external users (like contractors and suppliers) access to internal systems without compromising security.
Many identity management vendors like Tools4Ever offer IDaaS, an outsourced cloud-based version of their software. This reduces maintenance and overhead costs for the business because it’s a predictable operating expense rather than a large upfront capital expenditure. However, not all IDaaS solutions are created equal, and you should research to ensure you’re getting the best solution for your business. This includes looking at the vendor’s security practices and assessing what features they offer vs. what you need from your IAM solution.
Scalability
If your business grows quickly, you need an identity management system to keep pace. Look for a system that supports all your applications, including cloud and legacy systems. You’ll also want one that provides secure, seamless access to those applications with Single Sign-On and passwordless login capabilities.
For example, IBM Security Identity and Access Assurance is an IAM platform that works in sync with your day-to-day business processes and operations. It monitors user accounts and discreetly verifies their identity even after they’re logged in. It can communicate with various applications and gives IT departments control over the data it utilizes. It can synchronize user information across all of a company’s products and indicate suspicious login attempts so that they can be addressed immediately. It also supports different languages and is available in the cloud or on-premises. This makes it a fantastic alternative for any growing business.
Integrations
Many businesses have multiple systems for collecting and recording data. When these systems don’t work together, errors and inefficient operations occur. Integrations are tools that unify business systems so they work smoothly.
These integrations can be custom or out-of-the-box and can help create data flows between different applications. Out-of-the-box integrations are user-friendly and can be implemented almost instantly. They may also require minimal configuration and fulfill your everyday business needs.
Any organization requires the correct identity and solution for Identity and Access Management (IAM), regardless of size. You need a solution that will assist you in managing and monitoring users while keeping privilege flexibility. You may keep employees’ job responsibilities accessible while maintaining security. A smart identity and access management (IAM) solution will provide flexible privilege control, such as group-based entitlements that can be modified as the organization evolves. It would be advantageous to find a system that allows several authentication methods.
Security
Security measures and procedures should be essential in choosing an identity management solution. Look for a product with password-management tools, privileged account monitoring, and suspicious activity alerts. The platform should also be able to detect and protect against phishing, ransomware and other forms of cyberattacks.
Choose a solution that will continue to receive future patches, updates and support as needed. This will ensure it is scalable to meet both present and future needs. A scalable system will help businesses adapt quickly and adapt to regulatory changes.
Some IAM systems provide many features, including API access and multifactor authentication administration. These may be more expensive per user, but they can give your firm higher security. Others are designed to be lightweight and work in the background without interfering with system functionality or user experience.
