Azure AD Privileged Identity Management

What is Azure AD Privileged Identity Management (PIM)?

In today's dynamic cloud environments, managing privileged access is paramount to safeguarding sensitive data and resources. Azure Active Directory (Azure AD) Privileged Identity Management (PIM) is a cloud-based identity and access management service that helps organizations manage, control, and monitor access to important resources in Azure AD and Azure. It provides just-in-time (JIT) access to resources, reducing the risks associated with standing privileged access.

The Problem with Standing Privileges

Traditionally, administrators are granted permanent privileged roles. While this simplifies access, it also significantly increases the attack surface. If an account with standing privileges is compromised, attackers can gain unfettered access to critical systems. PIM addresses this by implementing an "on-demand" access model.

Key Features and Benefits of PIM

• Just-In-Time (JIT) Access: Users can activate roles only when they need them, for a limited duration.
• Role Assignment Approval: Require approval for users to activate their privileged roles, adding an extra layer of control.
• Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Enforce MFA for activating privileged roles to ensure identity verification.
• Access Reviews: Regularly review who has access to what and ensure that access is still necessary.
• Audit Logs: Comprehensive logging of all PIM activities for compliance and security monitoring.
• Reduced Attack Surface: Minimizes the window of opportunity for malicious actors by limiting standing access.
• Enhanced Compliance: Helps meet regulatory compliance requirements for access management.

How PIM Works

PIM introduces a new lifecycle for privileged roles. Instead of being permanently assigned, users can be eligible for roles and activate them when required. The process typically involves:

1. Eligibility: Users are designated as eligible for a specific role.
2. Activation: When the user needs to perform privileged tasks, they request activation of the role.
3. Approval (Optional): The activation request can be routed to approvers for authorization.
4. Assignment: Once approved (or if no approval is needed), the role is temporarily assigned to the user.
5. Expiration: The role assignment automatically expires after a predefined time.
6. Extensibility: Users can extend their role assignment if more time is needed, again potentially requiring approval.

Common Use Cases

• Azure Resource Management: Granting temporary access to manage subscriptions, resource groups, or specific resources.
• Azure AD Roles: Securing administrative roles like Global Administrator, Security Administrator, or User Administrator.
• Application Management: Controlling access to manage applications within Azure AD.
• Emergency Access: Providing break-glass accounts with limited, auditable access for critical recovery scenarios.

Implementing PIM in Your Environment

Setting up PIM involves configuring roles, eligibility, activation policies, and approval workflows. It's a strategic move towards a more secure and compliant cloud infrastructure.

Here are a few steps to get started:

1. Navigate to the Azure portal and access Azure AD.
2. Select "Privileged Identity Management" from the left-hand menu.
3. Discover available roles and begin assigning eligibility to users.
4. Configure role activation settings, including duration and required approvals.
5. Set up access reviews to periodically audit role assignments.

By embracing PIM, organizations can significantly enhance their security posture, reduce the risk of privilege-related breaches, and ensure better governance over their cloud resources.