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.