Introduction
Access Request module in Sailpoint Identity Security Cloud (‘ISC’) helps to streamline and secure the process of granting access to applications and roles within an organization. It is a self-service feature wherein end-users can request ad hoc/ additional access using ISC. ISC enforces security and compliance requirements including approval workflow as well as Segregation of Duties (‘SoD’) checks.
In large organizations, managing access requests can be a complex and time-consuming task. With numerous employees, systems, and departments, each with different needs, it’s essential to have a structured process in place.
‘Segmentation’ is a powerful ISC feature that plays a crucial role in managing self-service access requests. ISC allows creation of ‘Segments’ based on attributes like job title, designation, geographical location, etc. This approach not only enhances security by minimizing the risk of users requesting for privileged access but also improves efficiency by streamlining different types of access. With Segmentation, requestors are presented with a personalized view of self-service access request screen in ISC that only shows the access requests relevant to them.
Advantages of Segmentation
Segmentation provides multiple advantages.
Controlled Access
By ensuring controlled access, organizations can tailor what each end-user can see and request, based on their roles and responsibilities. This approach helps protecting privileged access and ensures that users only can request access to the resources aligned with their job roles.
Scalability
As organizations grow and expand, managing access requests can become increasingly complex. Without Segmentation, requestors may need to browse through a large number of access before they can find what access they want to request. With Segmentation, it is possible to enable access rules for different groups, departments, or functions.
Better User Experience
Segmenting access requests ensures that users are only shown the resources and systems that pertain to their specific role, enhancing their experience. This approach also minimizes confusion, as users no longer need to navigate through unnecessary options.
Risk Reduction
If a security breach occurs, segmentation ensures that the impact is limited to the group or department affected. For instance, if attacker gains access, they can only request access to the resources defined in that segment.
Reduced Human Error
At times, users may request access to resources or systems they don’t actually need, leading to unnecessary delays and administrative overhead. These irrelevant or excessive access requests can be time-consuming to review, approve, and manage, ultimately slowing down the entire process and adding complexity. By implementing segmentation, organizations can effectively prevent these unnecessary access requests.
Conclusion
Segmentation offers numerous advantages beyond security, including increased efficiency, better user experience, reduced errors, better resource allocation, and improved scalability. By ensuring that users only have access to the resources relevant to their specific roles, segmentation not only reduces unnecessary requests but also strengthens data protection and minimizes the risk of errors or security breaches.
As organizations grow and evolve, leveraging Segmentation enables them to maintain a more organized, secure, and efficient system for managing access—ultimately fostering a more productive and compliant work environment.
