As cybersecurity threats grow more sophisticated, organizations must implement strong Identity and Access Management (IAM) and Network Access Control (NAC) solutions. While IAM manages user identities and access to resources, NAC secures network access by enforcing security policies for devices and users. A crucial consideration during digital transformation is that IAM alone cannot secure all services, especially given that many legacy systems lack robust ID and authentication measures.
Soliton Systems excels by combining IAM and NAC, allowing users to utilize the same ID for both cloud service access and local network access. This hybrid model simplifies user management—if a user's ID is disabled, they are locked out of all services, enhancing security. Additionally, if users need to change their passwords, they only need to do so in the IAM system, streamlining the process.
This blog explores the benefits of this synergy and how Soliton's OneGate and NetAttest EPS create a seamless access experience.
Definitions and Importance of IAM and NAC
Identity and Access Management (IAM) refers to the comprehensive framework of policies and technologies that ensure the right individuals have appropriate access to technology resources. IAM encompasses processes for user authentication, authorization, and auditing (AAA), which are crucial for protecting sensitive information and ensuring compliance with various regulations.
Network Access Control (NAC) focuses on controlling access to network resources. A NAC solution like Soliton Systems' NetAttest EPS enforces security policies based on user identities and device compliance, ensuring that only authenticated and authorized devices can access the network. NAC complements IAM by providing an additional layer of security that scrutinizes device integrity alongside user identity.
Value of Keeping IAM and Application Layers Independent
- Enhanced Security Posture: Separating IAM from application service providers enhances an organization's overall security framework. If a breach occurs in one layer, it does not automatically compromise the other, thus minimizing vulnerability impact. However, a compromised user account could grant access to all services, posing significant risks. On the plus side, IAM systems can implement more secure protocols without necessitating changes to the services, maintaining a consistent security level across all applications. For legacy systems that cannot be updated, NAC can act as a secure frontline for accessing internal services.
- Flexibility and Scalability: Independent IAM solutions allow organizations to streamline identity management by utilizing a single ID for users—reducing the complexity of managing multiple accounts across platforms like HubSpot, Google, and Microsoft. When onboarding a new cloud service, only the IAM needs to be connected, minimizing user exposure and reducing the risk of password reuse across different services. This enables seamless integration of new technologies and applications, supporting organizational growth without disrupting the entire ecosystem.
- Best-of-Breed Solutions: Organizations benefit from selecting the most suitable IAM and NAC solutions that align with their specific needs. This strategy allows them to leverage specialized, best-of-breed technologies rather than being confined to a single vendor’s capabilities, which could limit functionality and innovation.
- Improved Compliance and Governance: Many industries face stringent regulatory compliance requirements regarding data protection and user identity management. By maintaining separate IAM and application layers, organizations can effectively implement, manage, and audit compliance measures tailored to each layer.
Microsoft as an Example of Integrated IAM and Service Provider
While Microsoft provides a comprehensive suite of enterprise solutions, including Entra ID (formerly Azure AD) for IAM integrated with various applications like Office 365, this approach can lead to vendor lock-in. When organizations rely solely on Microsoft for both IAM and service provider needs, they may face challenges related to flexibility and adaptation to shifting business demands. For example:
- Limited Vendor Choice: Organizations may miss out on specialized solutions from other providers that could better serve specific IAM or application requirements.
- Potential Integration Challenges: Adapting existing Microsoft applications to integrate with alternative IAM solutions as business needs evolve can become complicated and resource-intensive.
- Geopolitical Risks: Relying solely on vendors from one country can pose risks, especially in today’s geopolitical climate. Recent global trade shifts and economic uncertainties illustrate the vulnerabilities of having all critical services tied to a single vendor, emphasizing the need for diversified vendor strategies.
Synergy of OneGate and NetAttest EPS
Soliton Systems’ OneGate is a robust cloud IAM solution that utilizes public key infrastructure (PKI) to authenticate users securely. It enables organizations to manage user identities while granting seamless access to cloud applications—an ideal choice for today’s hybrid work environments.
When combined with NetAttest EPS, organizations benefit from a comprehensive solution that ensures secure access to both cloud and on-premises infrastructure. This hybrid model allows businesses to:
- Streamline User Experience: Users enjoy a single authentication process for both cloud applications and on-premises resources, simplifying access and improving productivity.
- Secure Network Access: With NetAttest EPS, organizations enforce security policies at the network level, ensuring only authenticated and compliant devices connect to the network, reinforcing protection against unauthorized access.
- Simplify Management: The combination of OneGate and NetAttest EPS allows IT teams to manage access policies centrally, reducing the complexity associated with maintaining separate systems for cloud and on-premises access. This centralized management aids in ensuring consistent security protocols and simplifies oversight.
- Adapt to Changing Needs: As organizations continue to evolve and hybrid work becomes the norm, integrating both cloud IAM and NAC solutions ensures that they can respond swiftly to changing security demands. This flexibility is key in a landscape that consistently shifts due to technological advancements and emerging threats.
The strategic separation of IAM from the application layer offers numerous advantages, enhancing security, flexibility, and compliance for organizations. Soliton Systems’ OneGate, paired with NetAttest EPS, exemplifies how businesses can achieve a cohesive access management solution that supports both cloud and on-premises environments.
Embracing this independent yet synergistic approach not only fortifies the security framework but also positions organizations to thrive in an increasingly complex digital world. By leveraging these advanced solutions, businesses can confidently navigate their digital journeys while safeguarding their most valuable assets, all while enjoying a simplified user experience that enhances productivity and minimizes security risks.