Identity and access management (IAM)

Identity and access management (IAM) is a framework of policies, processes, and technologies that enables organizations to manage digital identities and control access to resources, applications, and systems. For cloud security engineers, IAM is a fundamental component in ensuring that the right individuals have the appropriate access to resources in cloud environments.

IAM systems typically provide capabilities such as user authentication, authorization, and accounting (AAA), single sign-on (SSO), multi-factor authentication (MFA), and user lifecycle management. These tools help organizations enforce the principle of least privilege, ensuring that users have only the access they need to perform their jobs.

In cloud environments, IAM plays a critical role in managing access across diverse and distributed resources. Cloud IAM solutions often offer features specifically designed for cloud scenarios, such as managing access to cloud services, controlling API access, and providing identity federation between on-premises systems and cloud resources. By implementing robust IAM practices, cloud security engineers can significantly enhance their organization's security posture, improve user experience through streamlined access, and maintain compliance with various regulatory requirements in cloud ecosystems.