Why IAM and what is IGA?
Effective user identity and access management (IAM) is essential for productivity and employee engagement. When employees struggle to access key systems, it causes delays and frustration for both employees and IT support staff. Many European organizations, particularly smaller ones, still rely on manual IAM practices, such as email-based access requests, manual account setup, and delayed revocation of access for departing employees.
These outdated methods increase business risk: a 2024 Verizon report found that 24% of cybersecurity breaches are caused by stolen credentials, and 8% by misuse of access privileges.
A new approach is needed: automated Identity Governance and Administration
IAM involves managing user access to sensitive resources like databases, applications, systems, and physical assets such as buildings. It has two core components: identity management, which creates and manages user identities throughout their lifecycle, and access management, which defines and controls user access rights and authenticates users. IGA focuses on managing digital identities and access rights across systems and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. It also includes periodic access reviews to reduce risk.
