In cybersecurity, IAM, PAM, and IGA are crucial components of identity security.

Here's a breakdown:

• IAM (Identity and Access Management):

  • This is the broad framework for managing digital identities and controlling access to resources.

  • It involves defining and managing user roles, permissions, and access rights.

  • Essentially, IAM answers the question: "Who has access to what?"

  • IAM is the overarching term that the other two fall under.

• PAM (Privileged Access Management):

  • This focuses specifically on managing and controlling access for privileged accounts.

  • These accounts have elevated permissions (e.g., administrators), making them high-value targets for attackers.

  • PAM solutions enforce strict controls, such as:

    • Password vaulting.

    • Session monitoring.

    • Least privilege enforcement.

  • PAM answers the question: "How do we secure access for highly privileged users?"

• IGA (Identity Governance and Administration):

  • This deals with the governance and lifecycle management of user identities and access rights.

  • It includes:

    • Automating user provisioning and deprovisioning.

    • Access certification and reviews.

    • Ensuring compliance with regulations.

  • IGA answers the question: "How do we ensure that access is appropriate and compliant?"

In essence:

• IAM sets the overall access control strategy.

• PAM secures the most sensitive access.

• IGA ensures that access is managed and governed effectively.

These three elements work together to create a robust identity security posture.