What is the Difference Between IAM and PIM and PAM?

Security threats have become increasingly sophisticated, which means that organizations have to be resolute in their defense. Modern-day security solutions represent a multi-layered approach, which is designed to prevent cyberattacks and protect sensitive data. In 2023, 94% of organizations experienced security incidents. There has been an increase of over 70% in data breaches since 2021. This guide is all about utilizing effective, cutting-edge measures to manage access to privileged accounts as part of a robust security framework. 

This article is littered with acronyms, so before we discuss the ins and outs and key differences, it’s wise to explain what we’re talking about when we mention IAM, PIM and PAM. IAM stands for Identity and Access Management. PIM stands for Privileged Identity Management and PAM stands for Privileged Access Management. This article will shed light on how these components vary and outline privileged access management best practices to achieve optimum security outcomes.

IAM vs. PAM vs. PIM

IAM, PIM and PAM all involve privileges, but there are key differences, which relate to how they work. IAM (Identity and Access Management) is underpinned by the organization and how it offers permissions to users to access resources, including privileged accounts. PAM and PIM are subdivisions of IAM.

PIM governs user access to specific resources and privileged accounts based on identity while PAM involves the management of privileged accounts. 

Here are some key elements when determining the differences between IAM, PIM and PAM:

1. Focus: PIM and PAM are more focused than IAM. IAM covers access management to all resources while PIM and PAM concentrate on privileged accounts. 

2. Primary role: The primary role of IAM is to oversee and control overall access to resources and data. PIM regulates and monitors the identity of privileged account users. PAM governs how these users engage with and access privileged accounts. 

3. Accessibility: IAM underpins access controls for all users based on their jobs or roles. PIM controls access to privileged accounts. PAM is the most granular. It governs access to and interaction with specific resources or data based on job titles and roles 

What Does PAM Mean in IAM?

PAM stands for Privilege Account Management. PAM is part of IAM (Identity and Access Management). IAM should be a fundamental part of any security strategy. Its framework controls who has access to data, files, network systems and other resources. IAM is characterized by policies, controls and procedures that afford users access to certain resources. 

PAM is a subset of IAM. It deals specifically with privileged accounts, moderating access to high-level data through granular controls. While IAM acts as a strong foundation, PAM provides additional layers, ensuring that specific resources and data can only be accessed by authorized individuals. 

Is PIM Part of PAM?

IAM, PIM and PAM work in synergy to boost security and reduce the potency of threats. PIM and PAM are layers, which lie above the cornerstone of IAM. Although they appear similar, PIM and PAM are different. PIM focuses on pre-existing permissions based on user access controls and identity. PAM involves real-time access requests offering just-in-time access to resources such as apps and accounts that may not previously have been open to the user. 

PIM PAM Solution

For optimum results, companies should have a comprehensive security framework, which utilizes PIM and PAM tools. PAM solutions reduce risks by managing privileged accounts while PIM solutions protect organizations by monitoring and managing users with privileged identities. 

What is the Difference Between an IAM Engineer and a PAM Engineer?

Both IAM and PAM engineers have critical roles within cybersecurity, but their focus is different. IAM engineers oversee general user access to company resources and data. PAM engineers control user access to privileged accounts.

PIM in Cybersecurity

PIM provides companies with the option to regulate, manage and monitor user access to privileged accounts. This governs access by humans and machines, preventing unauthorized access to specific resources. 

What is the Difference Between IAM and PAM and DAM?

IAM, PAM and DAM are used interchangeably. All these elements form part of a company’s security network, but they are slightly different in terms of their primary function. IAM focuses on overall resource management and accessibility while PAM restricts and manages access to privileged accounts. DAM (Dynamic Access Management) focuses specifically on access and management of data for all users.

PAM vs. IAM vs. IGA

IGA (Identity Governance and Administration) forms part of IAM. It offers insight into the identities and access permissions of specific users. Gartner explains the difference between IAM and IGA as follows, “IGA differs from IAM in that it allows organizations to not only define and enforce IAM policy, but also connect IAM functions to meet audit and compliance requirements.” PAM has a narrower focus. It enables businesses to streamline how they grant, monitor and control access to privileged accounts.

What is the Difference Between RBAC and PIM? 

PIM tools and solutions usually include RBAC or Role-Based Access Controls. RBAC provides access to specific accounts based on predetermined user roles. 

IAM and PAM Tools

IAM and PAM tools offer features designed to simplify access to resources and privileged accounts. Lumos specializes in IAM, PIM and PAM tools, providing organizations with the ability to see, manage and monitor who has access to what and why. 

PAM Vendors

Grab a demo of Lumos for more information about PAM tools. 

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IAM is a fundamental component of modern-day cybersecurity frameworks. PIM and PAM are subdivisions of IAM, which focus on access to privileged accounts, which are not open to all users. To achieve the best outcomes, companies should utilize IAM, PIM and PAM in synergy.

By offering quick, simple and effective ways to manage overall access and restrict user access to privileged accounts, Lumos takes the stress out of cybersecurity for companies and organizations. To see how our innovative tools could transform your cybersecurity framework and strengthen your defenses, schedule a demo here.