What is privileged access management?
Privileged access management (PAM) is a solution for monitoring and protecting the activity of accounts with higher levels of security access. PAM, which is sometimes called privileged identity management (PIM), helps businesses secure confidential information, guard against cybersecurity threats, and maintain safe, efficient systems.
In a business environment, there is a tiered hierarchy of user access to sensitive information. In technology terms, this is called the principle of least privilege – users only get access to the minimum amount of information necessary to perform their job.
PAM uses people, processes, and technology to protect high-level accounts. Sometimes these are administrator accounts, and other times they are non-human (machine) users.
Privileged access management software can help an organization protect privileged accounts from internal and external threats. These tools can also safeguard credentials and monitor privileged user activity.
Basic elements of privileged access management
A privileged asset management system is useful for both a small team and an international enterprise. While some features vary from one PAM solution to another, most offer these basic elements:
- Automation: Many solutions offer automated workflows for repetitive tasks and allow administrators to set up alerts. For example, an administrator could receive notifications for a high number of failed password attempts.
- Multi-factor authentication (MFA): MFA adds extra layers of protection by asking users to prove their identity in two or more ways when logging into their account.
- Credential management: PAM offers password vaulting, which means the passwords for privileged accounts are securely stored and encrypted. It also rotates passwords, ensuring they are used for shorter periods, making them less vulnerable to attacks.
- Auditing: Periodic auditing is important when monitoring privileged sessions. PAM software offers recording and reporting, which also helps prove compliance.
- Just-in-Time (JIT) access: To minimize the risk inherent in giving standing privileges to certain employees, JIT provides access to higher security levels on an as-needed basis. Access is only granted for the time needed to complete a specific task.
Benefits of privileged access management
PAM solutions have many benefits for information technology administrators, executives, and other staff. Some advantages include:
- Preventing attacks: Privileged accounts are especially vulnerable to attacks because they often hold more access to money and power. PAM provides increased data security, which protects passwords and other confidential information from hackers.
- Increasing awareness: PAM lets a company see who is accessing certain devices or who is attempting to log into unauthorized areas in real time. These snapshots can paint a better picture of where the company is most vulnerable to suspicious activity.
- Encouraging compliance: In many industries, regulatory groups encourage a least privilege model, giving users the least amount of access needed to complete necessary tasks. As PAM is based on this model, it goes a long way toward helping companies achieve compliance.
- Increasing productivity: Because PAM automates tedious tasks like creating and changing passwords, users can spend more time on other work. Employees generally feel more satisfied and more productive.
Privileged access management best practices
When introducing PAM solutions in an organization, companies may want to consider making some big-picture changes. Some best practices include:
- Creating a policy: Take a close look at which users in the organization’s network need privileged accounts and when they require access. Remember that some roles may simply need Just-in-Time access.
- Educating team members: It’s easy to fall into a sense of complacency when it comes to cybersecurity. Take time to remind all employees of the importance of creating complex, unique passwords and discourage password sharing among colleagues.
- Segment networks and systems: It’s easier to contain a security attack or data breach in a segmented network or system. PAM can be used to complement these segmented boundaries, mitigating cyberattacks.
Kelly Fiorini
Kelly Fiorini is a freelance writer for G2. After ten years as a teacher, Kelly now creates content for mostly B2B SaaS clients. In her free time, she’s usually reading, spilling coffee, walking her dogs, and trying to keep her plants alive. Kelly received her Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Notre Dame and her Master of Arts in Teaching from the University of Louisville.
