2.2 Identity Management
Key Concepts
- Identity
- Authentication
- Authorization
- Single Sign-On (SSO)
- Federated Identity
Identity
Identity refers to the unique characteristics that define a user, device, or system within a network. These characteristics can include usernames, passwords, biometric data, and digital certificates. Identity management ensures that each entity within the network is uniquely identifiable and can be accurately authenticated.
Example: In a corporate network, each employee is assigned a unique username and password. This identity is used to authenticate the employee when they log into the network.
Authentication
Authentication is the process of verifying the identity of a user, device, or system. It ensures that the entity trying to access the network is who or what it claims to be. Common methods of authentication include passwords, multi-factor authentication (MFA), and digital certificates.
Example: When logging into a secure website, the user is asked to enter a username and password. Additionally, they might be required to enter a one-time code sent to their mobile device to complete the authentication process.
Authorization
Authorization determines what actions an authenticated user or system is allowed to perform. It defines the permissions and privileges associated with a user's role. Proper authorization ensures that users can only access the resources and perform the actions they are permitted to.
Example: In a university network, a professor may have full access to all academic resources, while a student may only have access to their own coursework and specific academic materials. This is controlled through authorization policies.
Single Sign-On (SSO)
Single Sign-On (SSO) is an authentication process that allows a user to log in once and gain access to multiple applications without being prompted to log in again. SSO simplifies the user experience and reduces the need for multiple credentials.
Example: A company implements SSO for its employees. When an employee logs into their workstation, they are automatically authenticated for all company applications, such as email, intranet, and HR systems, without needing to log in separately for each one.
Federated Identity
Federated Identity is a method of linking a user's identity across multiple separate identity management systems. It allows users to use a single set of credentials to access resources in different domains or organizations. Federated identity is often used in business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-consumer (B2C) scenarios.
Example: A customer logs into an online shopping platform using their social media credentials. The shopping platform trusts the authentication provided by the social media site, allowing the customer to access the shopping platform without creating a new account.
Conclusion
Identity Management is crucial for ensuring secure and efficient access to network resources. By understanding and implementing concepts such as identity, authentication, authorization, Single Sign-On, and federated identity, organizations can create a robust and user-friendly access management system.