How to Implement Identity and Access Management (IAM) (7 Steps)

With the advent of AI, expensive data breaches, and compliance laws - you undoubtedly need IAM solutions that balance security with user convenience.

Did you know an email compromise attack can cost companies $130,000 on average? IAM protects you from this across the board.

Which is why this guide walks you through the key steps to successfully set up your IAM. From defining access policies to selecting the right tools, we’ll help you create a better, secure approach to managing identities and permissions.

7 Steps When Setting-Up an IAM Software

1. Map Out What Your Long-term and Short-term Business Goals Are

Identity and Access Management (IAM) systems are not one-size-fits-all tools, so defining your goals is where you should start. Short-term goals might include improving login security or user access, while long-term goals could focus on regulatory compliance or scaling for growth. 

A clear understanding of what you need allows for targeted planning and resource allocation. Moreover, this clarity guarantees that the IAM solution supports both immediate needs and future expansion. Taking time to outline these goals can save both time and effort later in the process.

• Identify specific pain points in user access and authentication.
• Determine how regulatory requirements shape your IAM needs.
• Set benchmarks for immediate and long-term success.
• Involve leadership to align IAM goals with company priorities.

2. Look at Your Existing Setup and Compare It With the Evolving IT Industry’s Norms

Technology evolves rapidly, and staying current with industry standards is essential. Look at your current systems to identify strengths and weaknesses in your existing IAM framework. Look at how emerging trends, like biometric authentication or zero-trust security models, might enhance your operations. This process of review helps pinpoint where your system lags and where it aligns with industry advancements.

• Evaluate the compatibility of your current setup with modern IAM solutions.
• Research how industry trends, like AI-driven access, could impact your setup.
• Identify gaps in security or user experience compared to competitors.
• Explore case studies to see how similar businesses adapted.

3. Consider Whether Your Existing Ecosystem Works Well: On-Premises, Cloud, or Hybrid

The type of IT environment you use greatly influences IAM uage. On-premises setups have control but may lack scalability. Cloud-based systems have flexibility but require reliable cybersecurity measures. 

Hybrid models blend the two, having adaptability. Evaluating which environment aligns best with your operations allows your IAM software to complement your infrastructure.

• Assess the scalability needs of your current and future IT operations.
• Look at the cybersecurity measures required for your environment.
• Determine the ease of integration between your ecosystem and IAM tools.
• Weigh the costs and benefits of on-premises, cloud, and hybrid solutions.

4. Pick the Right IAM Software Based on Your Budget and Operational Needs

Selecting the right IAM software is a balancing act between cost and capability. Decide your budget while looking into software features like multi-factor authentication, single sign-on, and role-based access controls. The best choice will align with your operational needs without overburdening your financial resources. A thorough comparison of vendors helps in making an informed decision.

• List essential features that your IAM software must have.
• Compare pricing models across multiple vendors.
• Check for hidden costs like licensing or training fees.
• Choose software that has reliable customer support and documentation.

5. Deploy Your IAM Framework After Testing it With a Project

Deployment is a critical phase where planning meets execution. Before rolling out IAM across your company, start with a pilot project. Testing on a smaller scale allows you to identify potential issues without disrupting operations. Gathering feedback from the pilot phase allows a smoother transition when scaling up.

• Choose a non-critical department or project for the pilot.
• Document any issues encountered during the testing phase.
• Collect user feedback to refine the system.
• Develop a comprehensive rollout plan based on pilot results.

6. Establish Metrics to Measure the Success of Your IAM Infrastructure

Measuring the effectiveness of your IAM solution helps identify its strengths and weaknesses. Metrics like login success rates, reduced security breaches, and user satisfaction levels are indicators of success. Regularly reviewing these metrics allows for ongoing improvement and makes sure that the IAM framework continues to meet your needs.

• Keep track of user adoption rates and carry out satisfaction surveys.
• Look closely at the frequency of security incidents post-implementation.
• Measure system uptime and performance reliability.
• Set benchmarks for future improvements based on initial results.

7. Review and Constantly Improve Your IAM Policies and Authentication Framework

Technology and security threats are constantly evolving, which makes regular review a necessity. Periodic audits of your IAM policies allow them to remain effective and up-to-date. Incorporating user feedback and staying aware of new security challenges will help keep your framework reliable over time.

• Schedule routine reviews of IAM policies and tools.
• Stay updated on emerging cybersecurity threats.
• Incorporate lessons learned from past audits into policy updates.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement within your IT team.

Essential Components of a Reliable IAM Software

Centralized Authentication

Centralized authentication simplifies user management by consolidating access control into one platform. This makes sure there are consistent security policies across applications and reduces the risk of mismanagement. By centralizing authentication, businesses can improve user access while maintaining high security.

• Check for compatibility with various apps and systems.
• Make sure that the tool supports role-based access controls.
• Look at the user interface for ease of administration.
• Confirm the ability to scale as your company grows.

AI in IAM

AI-driven tools enhance IAM systems by automating access decisions based on user behavior. These tools can detect anomalies, like unusual login attempts, and take action as and when needed. AI assistance reduces manual oversight while improving security.

• Look for AI tools that integrate seamlessly with IAM systems.
• Look into the tool’s ability to learn and adapt to user behavior.
• Let it include immediate threat detection and response capabilities.
• Consider the privacy implications of using AI in sensitive systems.

Audit Logs and Compliance Frameworks

Audit logs provide a detailed history of user activities, aiding in both compliance and troubleshooting. A reliable IAM system will include complete logging features that meet regulatory requirements. These logs also serve as critical evidence during security audits.

• Verify that audit logs meet industry-specific compliance standards.
• Check the retention policies for logged data.
• Make sure the logs are easily accessible for audits.
• Look for automation in generating compliance reports.

Conditional and Privileged Access Management

Conditional access allows for dynamic access controls based on specific criteria, like location or device type. Privileged access management ensures that only authorized users can access sensitive systems. Together, these features provide a complete layer of security.

• Define clear conditions for granting or denying access.
• Allow privileged access tools that have complete monitoring.
• Check for compatibility with mobile and remote work setups.
• Look at tools for ease of customization and policy enforcement.

Universal Single Sign-On (SSO)

Single Sign-On (SSO) simplifies user authentication by allowing access to multiple systems with one set of credentials. This improves user experience and reduces the risks associated with password management. SSO is particularly valuable in environments with multiple applications.

• Confirm SSO compatibility with all required applications.
• Allow strong encryption protocols for credential storage.
• Evaluate user feedback on login convenience and speed.
• Check the system’s ability to handle high traffic volumes.

Adaptive Multi-Factor Authentication

Adaptive MFA adds an extra layer of security by adjusting requirements based on risk factors. For instance, it may require additional verification if a user logs in from an unfamiliar device. This flexibility enhances security without compromising user experience.

• Check for a variety of authentication methods, like biometrics.
• Evaluate the tool’s ability to assess risk as and when it happens.
• Make sure there is compatibility with mobile devices and wearables.
• Look for options to customize MFA policies.

User Lifecycle Management

Managing user accounts throughout their lifecycle—from onboarding to deactivation—is essential. IAM systems should automate tasks like provisioning new users or disabling accounts for former employees. This makes sure that access is granted appropriately and revoked when necessary.

• Confirm automation capabilities for onboarding and offboarding.
• Look into the ease of role assignment and changes.
• Check for integration with HR and other relevant systems.
• Encourage timely updates to access permissions as roles change.

What are Some of the Best Practices When Setting Up an IAM Software?

Make Sure All Department Heads Are Actively Involved

Using IAM  affects every department, so cross-departmental collaboration is essential. Engaging department heads allows your system to meet diverse needs while gaining broader buy-in. Their input also helps identify unique access requirements for their teams.

• Schedule regular meetings with department heads during the planning phase.
• Encourage feedback on specific departmental needs.
• Develop a shared understanding of IAM goals across teams.
• Document input to make sure that no critical needs are overlooked.

Try One Department or Project Before Rolling it Out Company-Wide

Starting small helps identify potential issues and allows for iterative improvement. A pilot program allow you to refine the system before a full-scale rollout, minimizing disruption to daily operations. It also provides an opportunity to gather valuable user feedback.

• Select a department with manageable complexity for the pilot.
• Monitor system performance and user adoption closely.
• Address any challenges before expanding the rollout.
• Use lessons learned to fine-tune the system for broader use.

Have Multiple Knowledge Transfer Sessions to Bring Stakeholders Up to Speed

Proper training allows all stakeholders to understand how to use the IAM system effectively. Multiple sessions allow users to ask questions and clarify doubts, increasing adoption and reducing resistance. Tailored training materials can address the specific needs of different roles.

• Schedule training sessions for both technical and non-technical staff.
• Provide hands-on demonstrations of key features.
• Create a library of resources for ongoing reference.
• Solicit feedback to improve future training sessions.

Make Sure to Follow the Principle of Least Privilege

Limiting access to only what is necessary reduces security risks. Making use of the principle of least privilege allows that users have access to the tools and information they need—nothing more. This lowers the potential impact or issue from unauthorized access or accidental misuse.

• Regularly review access permissions for all users.
• Use automated tools to enforce least privilege policies.
• Train employees on the importance of access limitations.
• Monitor for and address any violations of the policy.

Have SOPs in Place for Reviewing and Updating Access

Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for access reviews make sure there is both consistency and accountability. Regularly updating access permissions helps maintain security as roles and responsibilities evolve. Clear SOPs also simplify the process during audits or company-wide changes.

• Develop a schedule for periodic access reviews.
• Define roles and responsibilities for conducting reviews.
• Create checklists to guarantee thorough reviewers.
• Document changes made during each review for future reference.

Why Choose Infisign as Your Identity and Access Management Software?

Infisign stands out as a premier choice for identity and access management software, has a reliable set of features designed to simplify and secure user authentication. 

With adaptive authentication, real-time access monitoring, and multi-layered security protocols, Infisign makes sure that only authorized individuals can access sensitive data, minimizing the risk of breaches.

Want to see if Infisign is the right fit for you? Reach out for a free trial!