Through strategic developments, including the acquisition of Idaptive, CyberArk now delivers a comprehensive suite of IAM solutions, and here’s everything you need to know about CyberArk.
What is CyberArk?
CyberArk stands at the forefront of the identity access management (IAM) landscape, specializing in privileged access management (PAM). Recognizing the critical need to secure accounts with elevated privileges, CyberArk has evolved its offerings beyond its initial focus.
The core mission of CyberArk's solutions is to shield organizations from the ever-present threat of cyberattacks. It achieves this by meticulously managing and rigorously securing privileged credentials and sessions across the diverse spectrum of modern IT environments, encompassing on-premises infrastructure, cloud deployments, and complex hybrid models.
Key Features of CyberArk
CyberArk's platform is rich with features meticulously designed to ensure the security of privileged access. Some of the most notable functionalities include:
- Privileged Credential Management: At the heart of CyberArk's offering is its advanced system for securely storing, managing, and controlling access to privileged accounts. This is achieved through a combination of a robust policy management engine and a highly secure digital vault.
- Privileged Session Management: This feature provides organizations with the ability to initiate and closely monitor all privileged sessions. A key component is the recording of these sessions, which serves as an invaluable tool for auditing purposes and meeting stringent compliance requirements.
- Least Privilege Access: CyberArk strongly enforces the principle of least privilege, a cornerstone of security best practices. By granting users only the absolute minimum level of permissions required to perform their specific job duties, the platform significantly reduces the potential for unauthorized access.
- Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): MFA adds a critical extra layer of security by requiring users to provide multiple forms of verification before access is granted, making it significantly harder for malicious actors to gain entry even if they have obtained a password.
- Single Sign-On (SSO): To enhance user convenience without compromising security, CyberArk offers single sign-on capabilities. SSO allows users to log in just once and then seamlessly access multiple applications without the need to re-authenticate for each one.
- Adaptive Authentication: CyberArk's adaptive authentication takes a context-aware approach to security. It dynamically adjusts authentication requirements based on various factors such as the user's location, the device being used, and the sensitivity of the resource being accessed.
- Secrets Management: In addition to managing human privileged accounts, CyberArk also addresses the critical need to secure secrets used by non-human identities. This includes API keys, passwords embedded in applications, and SSH keys, which are often overlooked but can be significant vulnerabilities if not properly managed.
- Threat Detection and Response: CyberArk's platform includes sophisticated threat detection and response capabilities. It continuously monitors privileged sessions and analyzes user behavior to identify any anomalies that might indicate a security threat.
- Integration Capabilities: Recognizing the complexity of modern IT environments, CyberArk is designed to integrate with a wide range of existing systems seamlessly.
CyberArk Pricing
CyberArk provides a variety of pricing options tailored to different needs.
- For its Workforce Identity suite, which includes features like Adaptive MFA and Single Sign-On, pricing starts at a competitive $2 to $5 per user per month, depending on the specific features selected.
- These options are well-suited for managing employee and customer access to applications.
- For its core Privileged Access Management (PAM) solutions, CyberArk typically offers. While some sources indicate a median annual contract value of approximately $30,000, it's important to note that this figure can vary significantly based on the unique circumstances of each customer.
CyberArk's Key Features
CyberArk Usability and Interface
User reviews often highlight that while CyberArk's Privileged Access Management (PAM) solution is exceptionally powerful and comprehensive in terms of security features, the initial setup and configuration can present a degree of complexity.
- This complexity often necessitates specialized knowledge and expertise to ensure that the platform is correctly implemented and optimized for the organization's specific environment.
- However, once the initial setup is complete, users generally report that the administrative console and overall user interface are well-designed and user-friendly.
- This intuitive interface facilitates the effective management and monitoring of privileged activities, making it easier for security teams to oversee and control access.
- This automation not only enhances security by ensuring regular password updates but also significantly reduces the administrative overhead associated with manual password management.
By automating these routine tasks, CyberArk helps to improve the efficiency and productivity of IT and security teams, allowing them to focus on more strategic initiatives.
Privileged Access Management (PAM)
As CyberArk's flagship offering, PAM takes a comprehensive, risk-centric approach to the management of privileged credentials and sessions. It goes beyond simple password storage by providing a secure digital vault that acts as a central repository for sensitive credentials.
The platform also offers robust session recording capabilities, allowing for detailed monitoring and auditing of all privileged activities. This is crucial for maintaining compliance with various regulatory standards and for conducting thorough forensic analysis in the event of a security incident.
Furthermore, CyberArk's PAM solution includes granular access controls, enabling organizations to define precisely who can access what resources and under what conditions, thereby minimizing the risk of insider threats and external attacks leveraging compromised privileged accounts.
Adaptive Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Relying on traditional username and password combinations is no longer sufficient which is a good thing since CyberArk comes with adaptive MFA.
- CyberArk's Adaptive MFA requires users to present multiple forms of verification before granting access to sensitive resources.
- For instance, a user logging in from an unfamiliar location or device might be prompted for additional verification steps compared to a login from a trusted network.
- CyberArk supports a wide range of authentication factors, including biometrics, one-time passwords, and push notifications, providing flexibility to meet different organizational needs and user preferences.
Different Types of Authentication Supported in CyberArk:
- Password-based authentication allows users to log in using traditional usernames and passwords. To enhance security, CyberArk implements strong password policies and automated password management features.
- Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is a key security measure, requiring users to supply multiple verification factors in addition to their password. This significantly lowers the chance of unauthorized entry, even if a password becomes known to malicious actors.
- Biometric authentication methods, such as fingerprint or facial scanning, are supported by CyberArk. This offers a user-friendly and secure way to confirm identity using unique biological characteristics.
- One-Time Passwords (OTPs) can be used, where users generate a temporary, time-sensitive code, often through an authenticator application or SMS message. This introduces a dynamic security layer that changes with each login attempt.
- Smart cards and certificates are compatible with CyberArk, providing a hardware-backed method of authentication. These methods rely on physical tokens or digital certificates stored on a device to verify the user's identity.
- Push notifications to mobile devices serve as a convenient MFA option within CyberArk. Users can simply approve or reject a login request that is sent to their registered mobile device.
- Security questions can be set up as a secondary authentication method in certain situations. However, they are typically used as a backup and are generally less secure compared to other MFA options.
- Risk-based or adaptive authentication is utilized, where the level of authentication needed changes depending on the context of the login attempt. For example, logging in from a new location might prompt the system for extra verification steps.
Secrets Management
While the security of human privileged accounts is paramount, the secrets used by applications, machines, and other non-human entities are equally critical to protect.
- These secrets, such as API keys, database passwords embedded in scripts, and SSH keys used for automated server access, often provide a backdoor into sensitive systems if compromised. CyberArk's Secrets Management solution provides a secure and centralized platform for managing these credentials.
- This makes sure that sensitive credentials or secrets are stored in an encrypted vault, access is strictly controlled based on predefined policies, and credentials can be automatically rotated to reduce the risk of exposure.
- By managing these non-human secrets, CyberArk helps companies close a significant security gap and prevent potential breaches.
Single Sign-On (SSO)
The proliferation of cloud-based and on-premises applications within organizations has led to a situation where users often have to remember numerous sets of login credentials.
CyberArk's SSO solution simplifies this by allowing users to authenticate just once and then gain seamless access to all the applications they are authorized to use.
By centralizing authentication, single sign-on (SSO) also makes it easier for administrators to manage user access and enforce security policies across the entire application landscape.
SSO Authentication Protocols Supported in CyberArk:
- Security Assertion Markup Language (SAML) is a widely adopted open standard protocol that CyberArk supports for exchanging authentication and authorization data between security domains. This allows users to log in once and access multiple web applications without re-authenticating.
- OpenID Connect (OIDC), built on top of the OAuth 2.0 authorization framework, is another protocol supported by CyberArk for federated identity. It focuses on identity and provides a standardized way for applications to verify the identity of users.
- OAuth 2.0 is an authorization framework that CyberArk utilizes, often in conjunction with OIDC, to grant applications limited access to user accounts on an HTTP service. While primarily for authorization, it plays a role in modern SSO scenarios.
- Kerberos is a network authentication protocol that CyberArk supports, particularly in enterprise environments. It uses secret-key cryptography to provide strong authentication for client/server applications.
- Lightweight Directory Access Protocol (LDAP) can be used by CyberArk for authentication, often by connecting to a central directory service. While not strictly an SSO protocol itself, it underpins many SSO implementations by managing user identities.
- WS-Federation is a standard that CyberArk supports, primarily used in Microsoft-centric environments for federated identity management. It allows for the passing of security tokens across different trust realms.
Threat Detection and Response
A proactive security posture requires not only preventing unauthorized access but also quickly identifying and responding to any malicious activity that might occur.
- CyberArk's platform includes advanced threat detection and response capabilities that continuously monitor privileged sessions and analyze user behavior for any signs of suspicious or anomalous activity.
- This monitoring is often done in real-time, allowing security teams to be alerted to potential threats as they emerge.
- The system can identify deviations from normal behavior, such as unusual login times, access to sensitive resources that are not typically accessed, or attempts to perform unauthorized actions.
- Once a potential threat is detected, CyberArk provides tools and workflows to facilitate a rapid and effective response, helping to contain the incident and minimize any potential damage.
CyberArk Reviews and Ratings
- CyberArk consistently receives high ratings and positive feedback from users for its comprehensive suite of privileged access management features and its strong focus on security.
- On platforms like Gartner Peer Insights, CyberArk Privileged Access Manager typically scores around 4.4 out of 5 stars, reflecting a high level of customer satisfaction. Users frequently commend the platform for its robust security policies, which are designed to meet the most stringent compliance requirements.
- However, some users have pointed out that the initial implementation and configuration of CyberArk's solutions, particularly the PAM components, can be complex and may require specialized expertise.
- Additionally, while the robust feature set is a major strength, some users have noted that the cost of CyberArk can be higher compared to some other solutions in the market, which might be a factor for smaller businesses or those with budget constraints.
Overall, the consensus is that CyberArk provides a powerful and effective solution for organizations that prioritize advanced privileged access management and are looking for a platform that can offer a high level of security and meet complex compliance needs.
Overall View of CyberArk
CyberArk's ability to integrate with a wide array of existing systems further enhances its appeal, allowing organizations to build a cohesive and effective security ecosystem.
While the cost of CyberArk's solutions can be a consideration, particularly for smaller organizations, the depth and breadth of its features often justify the investment for businesses that prioritize advanced security and compliance.
The initial complexity of setting up and configuring the platform is a trade-off for the level of control and customization it offers, and organizations with dedicated security teams or those willing to invest in specialized expertise are likely to find CyberArk to be a powerful and effective solution.
For companies seeking a reliable, scalable, and feature-rich platform for privileged access management and identity security, CyberArk remains a top contender in the market.
Infisign: The Best CyberArk Alternative
The market for identity and access management solutions is competitive, with several strong CyberArk competitors available. That said, Infisign emerges as a noteworthy substitute for CyberArk, especially when considering its feature set and clear cost structure.
This access management solution showcases its flexibility through its IAM Suite, developed for improved administration of workforce identities, and UniFed, a CIAM tool focused on bettering user accessibility.
Also, Infisign presents a large collection of over 6000 APIs and SDKs, which helps with quick and uncomplicated set-up for your complete tech stack.
Infisign meets established standards with several significant capabilities:
- Infisign’s Pricing: Infisign is obtainable at a noticeably more economical price, with all the sophisticated authentication structures included in the starting cost. This suggests no unforeseen or extra charges for vital Identity and Access Management (IAM) features, a frequent scenario with software similar to Okta.
- Managed Password Authentication (MPWA): Utilizing Managed Password Web Authentication on Infisign grants the ability to regulate access to applications lacking SSO support, along with older and web-based applications. This lessens the likelihood of shadow IT within your setup.
- Secure Network Access Gateway: Apply zero-trust principles to your legacy, locally hosted applications. Infisign's network access gateway permits safe, cloud-based entry to resources hosted on-premises, effectively bridging older systems with contemporary security needs.
- Advanced Passwordless Authentication: Fortify your security perimeter by employing multi-factor authentication (MFA) that assists in preventing phishing and attacks based on stolen credentials. Infisign supports diverse means for verifying identity, such as OTPs, magic links, device passkeys, and biometric checks, applying strong authentication without causing user difficulty.
- AI-Powered Access: Automate user lifecycles management across collaborative platforms. Infisign's AI-driven abilities speed up the processes of adding and removing users, upholding consistent access control across key applications like Slack and Microsoft Teams.
- Adaptive Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Employ authentication based on risk through dynamic MFA policies. These policies examine factors like device security status, IP address, and location to employ suitable authentication measures, preserving strong security while ensuring legitimate entry is not hindered.
Want more details on how Infisign performs better than CyberArk? Reach out for a free demo call with our team of security experts.
FAQs about CyberArk
What is CyberArk used for?
CyberArk's primary use case is privileged access management, which involves securing and managing accounts with elevated permissions across an organization's IT environment. This helps to prevent unauthorized access, insider threats, and external attacks that often target privileged credentials to gain control over critical systems and data.
Who uses CyberArk?
CyberArk's solutions are typically adopted by medium to large-sized organizations across a wide range of industries. These are often companies that operate in regulated sectors, handle sensitive data, or have a significant need to protect against advanced cyber threats. Any organization that requires a robust and comprehensive approach to managing and securing privileged access and identities can benefit from CyberArk's offerings.
Is CyberArk expensive?
CyberArk is generally positioned as a premium solution in the identity and access management market, and its comprehensive PAM offerings can come with a higher cost compared to some other alternatives. It can cost enterprises an average of USD 30,000.
