Introduction

Identity Lifecycle Management(ILM) consists of various tools, policies, and software that are used to control different user accounts in an enterprise. However, the main role of all services under ILM is to control and allocate access to particular resources and controls. An ILM framework is not a physical setup. However, it ensures safety and protection from cyberattacks by restricting mass access.

The process of Identity Lifecycle Management (ILM) in a nutshell

Before anything begins in the framework, everyone who needs access needs to be identified in the network or system. Without a legitimate account, the user will not be authenticated as it lacks an identity and the required credentials to authorize itself.

Next, the IT manager must have complete information about which account has what role and position. For instance, a temporary contractor must have different access than a full-time employee working at a designated position.

The IT manager must also know when accounts need to be deactivated and deleted, as keeping them running when they are lying dormant could potentially invite cyber danger. This completes the whole lifecycle of accounts and allocating access.

Example

Several software and tools fall under the concept of identity lifecycle management. For instance, creation of privileged accounts, privilege creep, SSO services, two-factor authentication for accessing information, access validation and certification, and many more.

Advantages

• Internalizes human and digital accounts: IT managers could often avoid imposing access controls on devices when manually maintaining access control on human accounts. This could essentially create attack vectors to penetrate inside the organization’s database. With IAM, this could be avoided as it treats all accounts as a user, be it human or non-human.
• Greater user control: Controlling user accounts, access to information, and data flow is something every organization must monitor and audit regularly. IAM enables IT managers to do so. As it is an automated process, it minimizes IT employees’ manual administrative and technical tasks, which boosts efficiency.
• Complying with governmental IT rules: Corporates have to submit regular audits to the government to prove that they comply with the IT rules and regulations imposed in the country. Companies often find it difficult to prove that they are not misusing or imposing strong security measures. IAM comes into play as it restricts the misuse of information and data amongst users and enhances cybersecurity measures from the very core.