What is Identity as a service IDaaS?

Understanding Identity as a service IDaaS

Cloud-based services that broker identity and access management IAM functions to target systems on customers premises and or in the cloud. IDaaS provides centralized identity management, authentication, and authorization services delivered through cloud-based subscription models. These solutions typically include single sign-on, multi-factor authentication, directory services, and access management capabilities. IDaaS is addressed in frameworks like NIST SP 800-63 for digital identity and CSA Cloud Controls Matrix. Organizations implement IDaaS to centralize user management, enhance security through consistent controls, and reduce operational overhead of maintaining IAM infrastructure. For example, a multinational corporation might use IDaaS to provide consistent authentication experiences for employees accessing various cloud services and internal applications, while enforcing adaptive authentication policies based on risk factors. Related terms: Single Sign-On SSO, Federation, Multi-factor authentication, Cloud security, IAM, Directory services, SAML.