
Atlassian's suite of applications such as Jira, Confluence, and Crowd, play critical roles in modern workplaces. Jira serves as a versatile project and issue-tracking tool, empowering teams to efficiently plan, monitor, and manage their work. Confluence, on the other hand, fosters collaboration by providing teams with a shared workspace for creating, sharing, and collaborating on content, thereby facilitating seamless knowledge sharing. Crowd acts as the linchpin of user authentication and authorization across multiple Atlassian products, offering a centralized solution for identity and access management.
While these tools have revolutionized productivity, their use has also highlighted the importance of robust Single Sign-On (SSO) solutions. As teams grow and projects become more complex, the need for robust SSO solutions has never been more pressing. SAML (Security Assertion Markup Language) SSO, a trusted approach, is often met with its own set of challenges, ranging from intricate configurations to user management complexities.
To conquer these obstacles, organizations are increasingly turning to SCIM DC – a transformative solution that promises to enhance SSO and identity management within the Atlassian ecosystem. In this bit, we will explore how SCIM DC can be the key to unlocking seamless, secure collaboration.

### The Foundation: Atlassian SAML SSO {#atlassian-saml-sso-foundation}

Atlassian's SAML SSO is a robust solution that allows users to access their applications seamlessly without the need to remember multiple passwords. With SAML, users authenticate once through their identity provider (IdP), and then gain secure access to their Atlassian tools, making the login process more efficient and secure. While SAML SSO solves the authentication challenge, managing user accounts, permissions, and access control remains a separate and complex task.

### The Challenge of User Provisioning and Management {#user-provisioning-channel}

As an organization grows, so does its user base and the complexity of user management. Adding and removing users, assigning appropriate roles and permissions, and keeping user data up to date are critical tasks. Without an efficient user management solution, organizations can face challenges related to compliance, security, and user experience. SCIM (System for Cross-domain Identity Management) DC is the missing piece that complements Atlassian's Native SAML SSO, providing a unified solution for both authentication and user provisioning. Let's explore…

### Unlocking the Magic of SAML SSO+SCIM {#saml-sso-and-scim}

SAML SSO+SCIM DC may sound like a mouthful, but it's actually a powerful addition that simplifies your online access. SCIM and Native SAML SSO are two separate but related technologies that can be used to enhance identity and access management in an organization. While they serve different purposes, they can complement each other to create a more robust and seamless authentication and authorization system. 

&nbsp;&nbsp; 

**Immediate User Provisioning**

One significant advantage of SCIM DC is the immediate user provisioning it offers. With SAML alone, there may be delays between a user being added to your identity provider and then gaining access to Atlassian applications. SCIM DC streamlines the onboarding process, enhancing user experience and productivity. **It eliminates the wait time for new users to access Atlassian applications, increasing efficiency and minimizing disruptions to your team's workflow.** Whether you're bringing in new team members or making updates to your existing user roster, SCIM DC's immediate user provisioning ensures that the right individuals have instant access to the tools they need.

### Advanced Group Management through Provisioning {#advance-group-management}

Let's talk about group mapping. In simple terms, this feature allows you to organize your access to different apps and services. You can create groups and decide who gets access to what. One of the common challenges faced by Jira administrators who set up SSO  is the difference in the groups at IDP with the groups in Jira. Here, SCIM DC automates group assignments. With SCIM, when users log in via SAML, they are automatically placed into the correct groups based on the information provided by your identity provider, such as Azure, miniOrange, or Okta. This eliminates the need for manual group mapping and ensures users have the right level of access.

### Seamless User Status Sync: {#user-status-sync}

Native SAML integration doesn't always keep user statuses synchronized. **For instance, when a user leaves your organization, you would typically have to deactivate their accounts manually within each Atlassian application. SCIM DC can sync user status changes across your Atlassian apps.** When a user is deactivated in your identity provider, SCIM DC will promptly deactivate their accounts in Jira, Confluence, and Crowd. This not only enhances security but also streamlines user management.

### Filter Groups with Custom Rules {#filter-groups-with-custom-rules}

With SAML alone, you might have limited control over which users get access to Atlassian applications based on their attributes, like department or role. SCIM DC allows for flexible group filtering. You can define rules in your identity provider to determine which users are provisioned into which groups within Atlassian applications. For example, you can set up a rule that automatically assigns all users with the "Sales" department in your identity provider to a "Sales Team" group in Atlassian or you can decide that only people whose names start with 'A' can access a particular app.

### Modify Group and Usernames {#modify-group-and-usernames}

Names are important identifiers, but sometimes they need a little tweaking. With SCIM DC, you can modify groups and usernames by applying special rules. It lets you modify group names that come from your IDP. So, if you're tired of seeing group names like "Sales123" and "Sales456," you can use regex to rename them to something clean and consistent, like "Sales." Or you can transform usernames using regex to match your organization's standards thus ensuring uniformity in user identities across all applications.

### Mapping and Customizing Attributes {#mapping-and-customizing-attributes}

Attributes are like the characteristics that make you unique. With Native SAML SSO+SCIM DC, you can map user attributes like username, email, and display name to attributes from your IDP. This ensures that everyone's profile stays up to date, no matter where they log in. In some cases, you might need to add custom attributes to user profiles, which can be challenging with native SAML integration. SCIM DC enables you to add custom attributes to user profiles. For instance, you can include an employee’s ID or a manager’s email of each user, to ensure that important information is readily available within Atlassian applications.

### In a nutshell… {#conclusion}

Atlassian SAML SSO+SCIM DC is your ticket to streamlining user management and boosting security. While SAML SSO ensures secure and streamlined authentication, the SCIM DC takes user provisioning and management to the next level. With automated user provisioning, role-based access control, real-time updates, and simplified onboarding, organizations can enhance their security, compliance, and user experience across Jira, Confluence, and Bitbucket.

&nbsp;&nbsp;  

So why wait? Embrace the power of Atlassian SAML SSO+SCIM DC as the integration offers a compelling solution, making it easier than ever to manage users in Atlassian's suite of collaborative tools. 

Reach us at +1 978 658 9387 for a demo or email your queries to [info@xecurify.com](mailto:info@xecurify.com), we would be glad to take it forward from there.


How can organizations efficiently manage user identities and access, across their Atlassian applications such as Jira, Confluence, and Crowd? This is a pivotal question posed to businesses in this era of ever-evolving workspaces, and digital teamwork as we rely heavily on collaboration and productivity tools to streamline our work processes.

Atlassian SAML SSO with SCIM DC: A Powerful Duo for Synergizing Atlassian's Applications


## Automate User Provisioning in Atlassian apps with miniOrange User Sync ⚙️ 👤 {#Automate User Provisioning in Atlassian apps }

Licensing has become a dicey subject and the budget pressure on companies is on an entirely different level. As your company grows, manually managing the entire Access Management is a hassle. For every user or employee of the company that uses Jira, Confluence or Service Management, they must have the necessary access rights in order for them to work efficiently. 

&nbsp;&nbsp;

Your Organization can suffer from a series of difficulties with manual process:

1. **Poor Onboarding Experience:** as new employees join, they wait for their Jira, Confluence account while the IT team take time off their schedule

&nbsp;&nbsp;

2. **Time Constraints:** With constant changes in organizations like promotions, revamped job descriptions, gaining the right access for employees is a time taking process. Without automated processes to align permissions and application access, the time taken to bring in these changes can sink your productivity.

&nbsp;&nbsp;

3. **Higher licensing Costs and Security Risks:** According to estimates, **30% of all Atlassian user licenses are unused**. This happens because users that leave the organization or change roles don’t have their accounts deactivated in a timely manner. This can have negative consequences, like exceeding license limits leading to an **increase in licensing costs**. Retaining access from former employees – poses a major security concerns. This is a major concern for confidential information of your company.

&nbsp;&nbsp;

You need to constantly make sure that the product access is limited to those who still have a valid business purpose and they have access to only what they have to need. **Manually provisioning users/groups makes it absolutely intolerable and inefficient. This not only increases the workload but also means duplicate work for the administrator.**

With the help of user provisioning the user accounts are automatically created, given proper permissions, and maintained across all Atlassian applications. 

1. Keep your Atlassian instances 100% accurate with user provisioning so that all your Atlassian users are up to date and have access to what they need. [User provisioning].

2. Disable, deactivate or delete inactive users (user deprovisioning) automatically after x days. 

3. Manage group membership on the Central Identity Provider to make sure every user has the right permissions and see the right projects. 

At this point you must be wondering how I can automate User provisioning in Atlassian applications. 


### How to Automate User Provisioning in Atlassian Cloud {#How to Automate User Provisioning}

[MiniOrange User Provisioning](https://marketplace.atlassian.com/apps/1222000/mo-scim-provisioning-user-sync-group-sync-for-jira?hosting=cloud&tab=overview) automatically synchronizes changes made in your identity provider into the Atlassian apps and keeps your Atlassian cloud access always up to date. With miniOrange user sync you will be able to do the following and manage your users more effectively:

1. No prerequisites are required – Atlassian Access is not required. 

2. Streamline the process of adding, updating as well as managing their access for Atlassian apps [User Provisioning].

3. Whenever a user is deactivated in the identity provider, user Sync automatically deprovision/disable them in your Atlassian apps in the next sync and ultimately save licensing costs. [ User Deprovisioning].

### How to Automate User Provisioning in Atlassian Data Center {#How to Automate User Provisioning in Atlassian Data Center}

With the help of [miniOrange User Provisioning](https://marketplace.atlassian.com/search?query=miniOrange%20user%20sync), changes in your identity provider will be synchronized in Atlassian apps with one click. 


1. **Synchronize User Directories:** with user directories being synchronized, new users will automatically be added in the respective Atlassian applications. You can also schedule synchronization which provides proactive provisioning and de-provisioning of users and groups at regular intervals (sync).

2. **Default Group Mapping:** assign default groups in your Jira instance for each synced user and make sure that they are given the application access and not removed during a sync.

3.**Manual Group Mapping:** Assign permissions to users even if groups don’t match between IDP and Atlassian instance. 

4. Compatible with using [miniOrange SAML SSO](https://marketplace.atlassian.com/search?query=saml%20miniOrange) for authentication.


Additional functionalities provided in miniOrange User Provisioning

- Scheduled User Synchronization via API 
- Attribute Mapping 
- Username and Group Transformation 
- Supports SCIM 1.1 and SCIM 2.0 protocols
- Filter users by groups & filter groups to be assigned & removed  

### Conclusion: {#Conclusion}

Automating User Provisioning is not an option, it’s a must for any modern enterprise that takes security and usability seriously. It’s really easy to manage users automatically via our developed user provisioning add-ons which can be connected with your IDPs ([Azure AD](https://miniorange.com/atlassian/jira-scim-user-and-group-provisioning-for-azure-ad), [Okta](https://miniorange.com/atlassian/jira-scim-user-and-group-provisioning-for-okta), [OneLogin](https://miniorange.com/atlassian/jira-scim-user-and-group-provisioning-for-onelogin)) or any other SCIM compliance applications so when you setup your Jira Azure AD SCIM or Jira Okta SCIM, user sync plugin will make it a cakewalk for you.  

The add-on also works with [Single Sign On](https://marketplace.atlassian.com/search?query=miniOrange%20Single%20Sign%20On%20) where SSO is used for authentication and User sync application is used for automatic provisioning. You can also check out our other user Management add-ons on the Marketplace which helps removing unused licenses and ultimately save licensing costs for all your Atlassian instances.

Licensing has become a dicey subject and the budget pressure on companies is on an entirely different level. As your company grows, manually managing the entire Access Management is a hassle.

Automate User Provisioning in Atlassian apps with miniOrange User Sync ⚙️ 👤


Consider an organization utilizing various platforms for communication, collaboration, cloud services, and financial management, with each user possessing different credentials for each application.

Speaking of security breaches, a 2022 study revealed that [84% of organizations](https://www.globenewswire.com/en/news-release/2022/06/22/2467052/0/en/New-Study-Reveals-84-of-Organizations-Experienced-an-Identity-Related-Breach-in-the-Last-Year.html) have fallen victim to at least one identity-related breach in the previous year due to weak identity management. This is where Centralized Identity Management comes in as a savior.  

Centralized Identity Management addresses the aforementioned challenges by unifying user credentials across all platforms, streamlining access, and enhancing security.

In this write-up, we will look into the nuances of centralized identity management (CIM), how it works, and its importance while shedding light on decentralized identity management. So, let’s begin with understanding what centralized identity management is. 

## What is Centralized Identity Management? {#what-is-centralized-identity-management}
Centralized Identity Management (CIM) is a system that consolidates the management of users' digital identities and access permissions across multiple applications, platforms, and services. Instead of managing identities separately for each system, CIM centralizes control, providing a single source of truth for user authentication, authorization, and access rights.

### Key Functions of Centralized Identity Management:{#key-functions-of-centralized-identity-management}
**Authentication**: Verifies user identities using credentials like usernames, passwords, or [multi-factor authentication (MFA)](https://www.miniorange.com/products/multi-factor-authentication-mfa).

**Authorization**: Determines what resources a user is allowed to access based on their roles and permissions.

**Provisioning**: Automates the process of creating, updating, and removing user accounts across connected systems.

**Auditing**: Tracks user activity and access for compliance and security.

Before we head into the details of CIM, let's understand how Centralized Identity Management Works.

## How does Centralized Identity Management Work? {#how-does-centralized-identity-management-work}
Centralized Identity Management (CIM) works by unifying the control of user identities, authentication, and access permissions across multiple systems and applications under a single platform or directory. This centralized approach streamlines the process of managing user credentials, permissions, and access policies, ensuring security, efficiency, and scalability for organizations.

![The basic workflow of CIM](/blog/assets/2024/basic-cim-workflow.webp)

**Central Directory**: The centralized Identity Management (CIM's) core is a central repository, like Active Directory (AD) or a cloud-based directory service. This repository serves as the single source of truth for all user identities, storing information such as usernames, passwords, roles, and access permissions.

**User Authentication**: When a user attempts to log in to an application or service, the Centralized Identity Management system authenticates the user's credentials against the central directory. 

[**Role-Based Access Control (RBAC)**](https://www.miniorange.com/blog/what-is-role-based-access-control-rbac/): CIM assigns roles to users based on their position or department within the organization. These roles define what resources and services the user can access. The roles and permissions are centrally managed, ensuring consistency and compliance with security policies.

[**Provisioning and De-provisioning**](https://www.miniorange.com/products/user-provisioning): As users join or leave the organization, the CIM system automates the provisioning or de-provisioning of their accounts. New employees are automatically granted the necessary access to tools based on their role, and when employees leave, their access is revoked across all connected applications, reducing the risk of unauthorized access.

**Auditing and Reporting**: A key aspect of CIM is its ability to track user activities, including login attempts, resource access, and permission changes. These logs are stored centrally, providing visibility for compliance audits and helping detect potential security breaches.

By unifying identity management, CIM enhances security, improves operational efficiency, and ensures that organizations maintain compliance with data protection standards.

## Challenges of Centralized Identity Management {#challenges-of-centralized-identity-management}
Although Centralized Identity Management offers streamlined user authentication and access control, it also comes with certain challenges. Let’s look into them in detail. 

**Single Point of Failure**: A centralized system can become a single point of failure. If compromised, it may expose an entire organization's identity infrastructure to cyberattacks.

**Scalability Issues**: As an organization grows, managing identities from multiple devices, locations, and applications can strain the centralized system, making scalability a concern.

**Security Vulnerabilities**: Concentrating identity data in one place makes it a prime target for cybercriminals. A large volume of sensitive data could be exposed if the system is breached.

**Integration Complexity**: Organizations often use diverse applications and systems. Ensuring seamless integration with all of them is complex, especially with legacy systems or third-party applications.

**Privacy and Compliance**: Storing personal identity data centrally must comply with data privacy regulations such as GDPR, HIPAA, or CCPA. Ensuring compliance across regions can be difficult.

**Access Control Challenges**: Defining, enforcing, and auditing access policies consistently across various departments, devices, and users requires careful planning and sophisticated tools.

Looking at these challenges, one may think what could be the alternative to centralized identity and access management? Well, this is where we talk about decentralized identity management. 

## What is Decentralized Identity Management? {#what-is-decentralized-identity-management}
Decentralized Identity Management (DIM) is an approach to identity management where control over digital identities is shifted from a central authority to individuals or distributed systems. Instead of relying on a single organization to manage and verify identities (as in centralized systems), decentralized identity frameworks enable users to create and manage their own identities, often using blockchain or other distributed technologies.

To determine whether centralized or decentralized account management is better for preventing cybercrime and optimizing provisioning workflows, it's essential to explore the differences between the two identity management models. Each approach offers distinct advantages in terms of security and efficiency, and understanding these can guide the decision-making process. Let's delve into the key differences between centralized and decentralized identity management.

## Centralized Vs. Decentralized Identity Management {#centralized-vs-decentralized-identity-management}
The primary difference between centralized and decentralized identity management lies in how identities are managed, controlled, and verified. Here's a detailed breakdown of the key distinctions:

| Aspect | Centralized Identity Management | Decentralized Identity Management |
|--------|---------------------------------|-----------------------------------|
| Control and Ownership | Control over identity data is with a single authority or organization as users' credentials and personal data are stored in a centralized database managed by the organization. The organization makes decisions about access, policies, and identity usage | Control over identity data is distributed, and users themselves own and manage their own digital identities. Instead of being stored in a single database, identity credentials may reside with the individual or across multiple nodes in a decentralized network. Here, the users decide how, when, and with whom they share their identity information. |
| Security | Security breaches can be severe, affecting all users in the centralized system as it is more prone to a single point of failure—if the central system is compromised. | Security is enhanced by distributing control across multiple points, minimizing the risk of a single breach. The lack of a central repository means attacks are harder to execute on a large scale, making the system more resilient. |
| Privacy | Privacy is often a concern because all user identity information is stored centrally. The organization controlling the data may collect, analyze, or share personal information without the user's full knowledge or consent. | Users have full control over their identity data and can choose which information to share with third parties, maintaining greater privacy. Systems are often built with privacy by design, ensuring that minimal personal data is shared. |
| Verification Process | The central authority handles verification. The organization managing the system is responsible for authenticating users and granting access to resources. Trust is placed in the central authority to manage and secure user credentials properly. | Verification is done through self-sovereign identities or cryptographic proof. Users present verifiable credentials issued by trusted parties, but the central authority is not needed for every authentication. Trust is distributed across a network, using blockchain or similar technologies to verify the authenticity of credentials without a central authority. |
| Scalability | As the number of users, devices, and applications grows, the system can become harder to scale and manage. Centralized systems may struggle with bottlenecks, especially as they expand across regions or need to integrate with multiple applications. | Decentralized systems are inherently more scalable because they do not rely on a single point of control. They can expand without a corresponding increase in complexity or bottlenecks. They are designed to support widespread interoperability across different platforms and networks. |
| Compliance and Governance | Easier for organizations to govern and enforce policies since they control all user data and can ensure compliance with legal regulations. However, centralized systems must comply with stringent data privacy regulations like GDPR, which can add complexity to managing sensitive data. | Compliance becomes more complex, as users own their data and the organization does not directly manage personal information. However, decentralized systems may reduce exposure to legal risk since the organization does not store large amounts of personal data. |  

Let’s Summarise It: 
![Centralized Vs. Decentralized Identity Management](/blog/assets/2024/centralized-vs-decentralized-identity-management.webp)

## Centralized or Decentralized: Which One is Better? {#centralized-or-decentralized}
**For Organizations Needing Full Control**: Centralized systems are often more suitable for organizations that need efficient control over user identities and simplified management, especially for enterprises with existing centralized infrastructures.

**For Privacy-Conscious or Highly Secure Environments**: Decentralized systems are ideal for organizations or sectors (like finance or healthcare) that prioritize user privacy, security, and data protection. They are particularly effective when users need to manage their own identity across multiple services.

**Hybrid Approach**: Many organizations are opting for a hybrid approach, where centralized systems are used for certain services and decentralized elements are adopted for specific privacy-focused use cases. This allows for a balance of control, security, and user privacy.

In short, centralized identity management works well for organizations needing control, simplicity, and integration, while decentralized identity management is better for users seeking privacy, security, and self-sovereignty over their identity. The choice depends on an organization’s priorities, scale, and the type of system best suited for their users or customers.

## Increasing Demand for Identity and Access Management  {#increasing-demand-for-identity-and-access-management}
In conclusion, as organizations continue to face security challenges and regulatory demands, the need for effective [Identity and Access Management (IAM) systems](https://www.miniorange.com/iam/) is paramount. In fact, as per reports, the [IAM market size](https://identitymanagementinstitute.org/identity-and-access-management-market-report-2021-and-beyond/) is expected to record a compound growth rate of 14.5% between 2020 and 2025. 
 
Whether through centralized or decentralized identity management, the goal remains the same: to protect user data, streamline access control, and ensure compliance. While both approaches have their strengths, the right solution depends on an organization's specific needs, priorities, and infrastructure.

At miniOrange, we specialize in providing comprehensive IAM solutions tailored to meet the unique demands of businesses across industries. Our solutions streamline centralized identity management, ensuring security, scalability, and seamless integration with existing systems. Whether you're looking for robust role-based access control, user authentication, or identity provisioning, miniOrange has the expertise and tools to help safeguard your organization against identity-related threats while improving operational efficiency.

Discover how[ miniOrange's IAM solutions](https://www.miniorange.com/iam/solutions/) can transform your identity management strategy and secure your business today.

Explore the benefits and challenges of centralized and decentralized identity management, and discover how these systems enhance security and streamline workflows.

The Importance of Centralized Identity Management


## Crowd User Management at your fingertips 🙌

Hello Crowd Admins!

An acronym for System for Cross-domain Identity Management, SCIM is an open standard that helps in automating the user identity lifecycle management process.

That’s the industry definition, sounds complicated! Let’s see if we can simplify it a bit with the help of this article. It’s all about ‘identity and access management (IAM),’ the concept has been around for quite some time. Think about if you are able to create a user account in one system and matching accounts automatically get created in other systems the user needs access to.

Sounds amazing but it’s not so simple as each system may have its own unique connection methods such as LDAP, SQL, ADSI, custom APIs, etc. That’s where SCIM comes into the picture, it is designed to make managing user identities in cloud-based services and applications easier, but before we go further let’s dive into…

### Why SCIM? {#why-scim}

Instead of the ‘what’ let’s begin with the ‘why.’ We use different cloud-based SaaS applications such as Salesforce, Zendesk, GitHub, Trello, etc. in our daily work routine depending on our role. These applications were assigned to us when we initially joined. This is done by the IT Admin of the company, now think for a minute if a company has less than 10 employees, manually adding them to the application might work but what if the size of the company runs into hundreds or thousands, the task becomes challenging. And, what about when an employee leaves or is terminated from the company they are removed from the company’s employee directory and all access revoked?

The crowd is the tool given by Atlassian which manages users and groups for all Atlassian apps. Crowd is a centralized directory and the access and authorization to Jira, confluence applications are very much dependent on Crowd.

We are pleased to present to you the app that aims to solve your most complex problem. Syncing & Managing users in a crowd is now a problem of the past! Introducing the miniOrange [Crowd SCIM Plugin](https://marketplace.atlassian.com/apps/1229918/mo-scim-provisioning-user-group-sync-for-crowd?hosting=datacenter&tab=overview) 🎉

The Crowd SCIM plugin connects Crowd with your Identity Provider. You can connect different Identity Providers such as Okta, Azure AD, Onelogin, Keycloak, G Suite and any SCIM Supported IDPs for provisioning. Unleash the true potential of Crowd giving you access to features like:-

**Provision & De-Provision users 🔁**

Easily provision and de-provision users in Crowd in sync with your Identity Provider.

**Update/Activate/Deactivate users ✅**

Automatically update the details of users, and activate and deactivate user accounts (If deleted or deactivated in IDP) to save extra license costs and improve the security of your organization.

**Real-Time Provision Users 🚀**

As soon as a user is created on your Identity Provider, it will automatically be created in Crowd, in REAL TIME!!!!

**IDP App-specific provisioning 🖥️**

You can choose provisioning features based on your configured IDPs. Isn’t that great?

**Transform username based on regex for matching user 🧑‍**

Do your users have different usernames in your IDP and different usernames in Crowd? We’ve got you covered. This feature will allow you to transform the username received from the IDP and create or update the desired username in Crowd.

![Crowd User Management Sync](https://miniorange.com/atlassian/wp-content/uploads/sites/14/2023/01/Crowd-SCIM.webp)

I hope you enjoy this plugin as much as we did while creating it. While this is what we’re offering now, here’s our roadmap for the next release:

-   Upcoming Features 🛣️

-   Scheduled Provisioning

-   Filter users by groups for assigning

-   Manual user sync button

-   Sync/update users upon successful authentication

Feel free to reach out to us at [atlassiansupport@xecurify.com](mailto:atlassiansupport@xecurify.com) for a free demo, setup, or any custom use case. We’re happy to help 😄

Try the miniOrange Crowd SCIM plugin today!


Use Crowd SCIM to sync your users, groups and directories with SCIM for Server/DC. Support for Azure AD, Okta, Onelogin, Oracle IDCS, ... IDPs

Crowd User Management at your fingertips


Are your employees struggling with multiple passwords and access issues? Make their life easy with an enterprise-grade identity management solution. Manage digital identities at the enterprise level and ensure that the right people have the right access at the right time.

In this article, we will explore the fundamentals of enterprise identity management, its core components, benefits, challenges, and best practices. Also, we will see how organizations can meet compliance requirements and stay on top of trends in enterprise IAM. It covers how miniOrange enterprise identity management solutions benefit your enterprise with its rich feature set and integration capabilities.

## What is Enterprise Identity Management (EIM)? {#what-is-enterprise-identity-management}

Enterprise Identity and Access Management (IAM) is a system that helps organizations manage who has access to their resources, like data, applications, and networks. It ensures that the right people have the right access at the right time.

### Why Is It Important? {#why-is-it-important}

- **Security:** Protects sensitive information from unauthorized access.
- **Compliance:** Helps meet regulatory requirements and avoid fines.
- **Efficiency:** Simplifies user access management, reducing administrative workload.
- **User Experience:** Provides seamless access to resources, improving productivity.

In short, enterprise IAM helps safeguard data, ensure compliance, and enhance operational efficiency.

### Common Identity Challenges in Organizations {#common-identity-challenges-in-organizations}

These are common identity challenges that enterprise Identity and Access Management (IAM) solutions address:

1. **Identity Provisioning:** Managing and granting user access to various systems and resources becomes complex as organizations grow.
2. **Regulations and Compliance:** Organizations must comply with laws and regulations like [GDPR](https://www.miniorange.com/compliances/gdpr) and HIPAA, which require strict identity management.
3. **Data Security:** Ensuring that only authorized individuals can access sensitive information to prevent data breaches.
4. **Nonhuman Identities:** Managing access for devices, applications, and services, not just human users.
5. **[**BYOD**](https://www.miniorange.com/unified-endpoint-management/solutions/bring-your-own-device-byod) (Bring Your Own Device):** Securing access from personal devices used by employees.
6. **Threats and Attacks:** Protecting against cyber threats and unauthorized access.
7. **Future Planning:** Adapting to new technologies and evolving security needs.

Enterprise IAM helps organizations streamline these processes, enhance security, and ensure [compliance](https://www.miniorange.com/compliances/) with regulations.

## Core Components of Enterprise IAM {#core-components-of-enterprise-iam}

The core components of Enterprise Identity and Access Management (IAM) include:

### **Managing User Accounts**

1. **[User Provisioning:](https://www.miniorange.com/products/user-provisioning)** Creating and managing user accounts efficiently.
2. **De-provisioning:** Removing access when users leave the organization.
3. **Self-Service:** Allowing users to manage their own passwords and profiles.

### **Controlling Access to Resources**

1. **Access Policies:** Defining who can access what resources.
2. **[Role-Based Access Control (RBAC):](https://www.miniorange.com/blog/what-is-role-based-access-control-rbac/)** Assigning permissions based on user roles.
3. **Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA):** Adding an extra layer of security to verify user identities.

### **Simplifying Login Processes**

1. **Single Sign-On (SSO):** [SSO Solution](https://www.miniorange.com/iam/solutions/sso-solution) Allowing users to log in once and access multiple applications.
2. **Federated Identity:** Enabling users to use their credentials across different organizations.
3. **Password Management:** Implementing tools to help users manage and reset their passwords easily by using [password management](https://www.miniorange.com/blog/password-management-best-practices/).

## Benefits of EIM and Challenges in Enterprise IAM {#benefits-of-eim-and-challenges-in-enterprise-iam}

Here are the benefits and challenges of Enterprise Identity Management (EIM) and Identity and Access Management (IAM):

1. **Improved Security:** Protects sensitive data by ensuring only authorized users have access.
2. **Employee Productivity:** Simplifies access to necessary resources, allowing employees to work efficiently.
3. **Cost Savings:** Reduces costs associated with managing multiple identities and access points.
4. **Compliance:** Helps meet regulatory requirements by maintaining proper access controls and audit trails.

### Challenges in Enterprise IAM {#challenges-in-enterprise-iam}
1. **Legacy Systems:** Integrating IAM with older systems can be complex and time-consuming.
2. **User Adoption:** Ensuring all users understand and follow IAM practices can be challenging.
3. **Evolving Threats:** Constantly changing security threats require continuous updates and monitoring.

## Best Practices for Enterprise IAM Implementation {#best-practices-for-enterprise-iam-implementation}

Best practices for implementing Identity and Access Management (IAM) in an enterprise include:

### Planning Your Approach
1. **Assess Needs:** Understand your organization’s specific needs and goals.
2. **Define Policies:** Create clear policies for access and identity management.
3. **Choose the Right Tools:** Select IAM tools that fit your requirements.
4. **Involve Stakeholders:** Engage key stakeholders from different departments.

### Giving Appropriate Access
1. **Principle of Least Privilege:** Grant users the minimum access necessary to perform their tasks.
2. [**Role-Based Access Control (RBAC):**](https://www.miniorange.com/blog/what-is-role-based-access-control-rbac/) Assign access based on user roles within the organization.
3. **Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA):** Use MFA to add an extra layer of security.
4. **Regular Reviews:** Periodically review and update access permissions.

### Monitoring and Adjusting
1. **Continuous Monitoring:** Keep an eye on user activities and access patterns.
2. **Audit Logs:** Maintain detailed logs of access and identity-related activities.
3. **Respond to Incidents:** Have a plan in place to respond to security incidents.
4. **Adjust Policies:** Regularly update policies and practices based on monitoring results and new threats.

## Meeting Compliance with Enterprise IAM for Businesses {#meeting-compliance-with-enterprise-iam-for=business}

### Key Regulations Affecting Enterprise Identity Management {#key-regulations-affecting-enterprise-idedtity-management}

Here are some key regulations affecting enterprise identity management:

1. General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)
2. Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX)
3. [Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)](https://www.miniorange.com/compliances/hipaa)
4. Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS)
5. Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLBA)
6. [Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act](https://www.miniorange.com/compliances/dpdp-act)
7. Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
8. North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC)
9. [National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)](https://www.miniorange.com/compliances/nist-compliance)

### How Does Enterprise IAM Support Compliance Efforts? {#how-does-enterprise-iam-support-compliance-efforts}

Enterprise [Identity and Access Management](https://www.miniorange.com/iam/) (IAM) supports compliance efforts in several key ways:

1. **Access Control:** IAM ensures that only authorized individuals have access to sensitive data and systems. This helps organizations comply with regulations that require strict access controls.
2. [**Audit Trails:**](https://www.miniorange.com/pam/privileged-session-audit-trail) IAM systems provide detailed logs of who accessed what and when. These audit trails are crucial for demonstrating compliance during regulatory audits.
3. **Policy Enforcement:** IAM enforces policies related to data protection and access rights. This ensures that the organization adheres to internal and external regulations.
4. [**Identity Lifecycle Management:**](https://www.miniorange.com/blog/what-is-lifecycle-management/) IAM manages the entire lifecycle of user identities, from onboarding to offboarding. This helps maintain accurate records and ensures that access rights are updated as roles change.
5. **Segregation of Duties:** IAM helps implement segregation of duties by ensuring that no single individual has excessive access privileges. This reduces the risk of fraud and malicious activities.

By implementing these IAM practices, organizations can strengthen their security posture and ensure compliance with various regulatory requirements.

## miniOrange Enterprise or Workforce IAM Solution {#miniorange-enterprise-or-workforce-iam-solution}

### Features of miniOrange Enterprise or Workforce IAM Solution

1. [**Single Sign-On (SSO):**](https://www.miniorange.com/products/single-sign-on-sso) Access multiple applications with one set of login credentials.
2. [**Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA):**](https://www.miniorange.com/products/multi-factor-authentication-mfa) Adds an extra layer of security by requiring more than just a password.
3. [**User Lifecycle Management:**](https://www.miniorange.com/products/user-lifecycle-management) Automates user provisioning and deprovisioning.
4. [**Passwordless Authentication:**](https://www.miniorange.com/products/adaptive-multi-factor-authentication-mfa) Eliminates the need for passwords.
5. [**Adaptive Authentication:**](https://www.miniorange.com/products/adaptive-multi-factor-authentication-mfa) Adjusts security measures based on user behavior and risk.
6. **Directory Services:** Supports integration with external directories like [Active Directory (AD)](https://www.miniorange.com/active-directory-authentication) and LDAP.
7. **Frictionless Secure Login:** Simplifies access to applications for employees and partners.
8. [**Remote Workforce Access:**](https://www.miniorange.com/products/secure-remote-access) Securely access tools and devices from any location.
9. [**Identity Brokering:**](https://www.miniorange.com/products/identity-broker-service) Connects multiple apps with various external Identity Providers (IdPs).
10. [**Two-Factor Authentication (2FA):**](https://www.miniorange.com/products/two-factor-authentication-(2fa)) Adds an extra layer of security.
11. [**OAuth 2.0 Server:**](https://www.miniorange.com/products/oauth2-server) Securely authorizes access to resources.

### Supported Integrations {#supported-integrations}

1. **Pre-Integrated Apps:** Over 6000 pre-built [integrations](https://www.miniorange.com/iam/integrations/) for seamless SSO, MFA, and provisioning.
2. **APIs:** Connects with various applications and services using APIs.
3. **Cloud and On-Premise:** Flexible deployment options to suit different business needs.
4. **External IdP:** Uses external Identity Providers for authentication and authorization.
5. **APIs and Directories:** Integrates with existing directories and identity systems.

## Futuristic Trends in Enterprise Identity Management {#futuristic-trends-in-enterprise-identity-management}

Some trends in Enterprise Identity Management that are shaping the future:

#### `1. [**Biometric Authentication**](https://www.miniorange.com/blog/everything-you-need-to-know-about-biometric-authentication/)
Using fingerprints, facial recognition, or even voice recognition to verify identity is becoming more common. It's secure and convenient.

#### `2. **Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)**
This adds an extra layer of security by requiring two or more verification methods. For example, you might need to enter a password and then confirm your identity with a fingerprint.

#### `3. **Decentralized Identity (DID) Solutions**
Instead of storing identity information in one place, DID solutions distribute it across multiple locations. This makes it harder for hackers to access your information.

#### `4. **Artificial Intelligence (AI)**
AI is being used to detect unusual behavior and potential security threats. It can quickly analyze large amounts of data to identify risks.

#### `5. [**Zero Trust Security**](https://www.miniorange.com/blog/zero-trust-security-model/)
This approach assumes that no one, whether inside or outside the organization, should be trusted by default. It requires continuous verification of identity and access rights.

#### `6. **User-Centric Identity Management**
This trend focuses on giving users more control over their own identity information. Users can decide what information to share and with whom.

These trends are making identity management more secure and user-friendly, helping organizations protect their data and comply with regulations.

## FAQs {#faqs}

**1. What is an enterprise identity management system?**

Enterprise Identity Management (EIM) or Identity and Access Management (IAM) is the process organizations use to create, verify, store, and manage digital identities for their employees and sometimes customers.

**2. What is the difference between IAM and IdAM?**

Identity and Access Management (IAM or IdAM) is a system that identifies users and controls what they can do. Think of it like a nightclub bouncer who decides who can enter, who can't, and who gets VIP access. IAM is also known as Identity Management (IdM).

**3. What is the IdAM tool?**

Identity and access management (IAM) is a system of rules and tools that makes sure the right people in an organization have the correct access to technology resources.

**4. What are the four components of IAM?**

IAM components fall into four main categories: authentication, authorization, user management, and central user repository. Authentication is the process where a user provides credentials to access an application or resource.

**5. What are the four pillars of IAM?**

The [four key components of identity and access management (IAM)](https://www.miniorange.com/blog/what-are-the-four-pillars-of-iam/) are:

- Identity Governance and Administration (IGA), 
- Access Management (AM), 
- Privileged Access Management (PAM), and 
- Active Directory Management (ADmgmt).

**6. How does IdAM work?**

Identity and Access Management (IAM) is the process of giving, tracking, and taking away access to data or systems for a specific user.

**7. What are the 3 A’s of IAM? / 3 Basic A’s of Identity & Access Management**

IAM (Identity and Access Management) procedures and technologies help manage authentication effectively. Authentication can be done alone or with authorization and accounting. A good password strategy is crucial for successful authentication.

**8. What is the difference between IAM and UAM? / Streamlining User Access Management (UAM): IAM Basics**

User Access Management (UAM) is a key part of Identity and Access Management (IAM) in modern IT systems. After verifying a user's identity, UAM ensures they get access to the necessary tools at the right time, based on predefined criteria for individuals or groups.

**9. Why do companies need IAM?**

Identity and Access Management (IAM) is crucial for protecting sensitive business data, defending against cyber threats, and meeting regulatory requirements. Implementing strong IAM solutions helps businesses manage access more efficiently, boost security, and enhance overall productivity.

Enterprise identity and access management or Enterprise IAM is a framework of policies, processes, and technologies that enables organizations to manage and secure digital identities and control access to their resources.

What is Enterprise Identity Management(EIM)?


## Simplifying Collaboration with OAuth SSO and SCIM {#how-atlassian-oauth-sso-and-scim-app-simplifies-user-management-and-collaboration}

Ever wondered how teams navigate the intricate landscape of digital collaboration and evolving workspaces? A team seamlessly orchestrating projects with tools like Jira and Confluence. But, as teams and projects grow, a new question arises: How do we simplify the authentication process without compromising security? To address the situation, the recommended approach is to incorporate the SCIM app with Atlassian OAuth Single Sign-On (SSO) for a more streamlined and effective solution.

&nbsp;

Jira excels as a project tracker, and Confluence plays a central role in collaborative content creation. User authentication across Atlassian products is crucial, and a robust Single Sign-On (SSO) solution becomes increasingly vital as these applications enhance productivity.

### Advancing Authentication: Atlassian OAuth SSO {#advancing-authentication}

Embracing the demand for streamlined and user-friendly authentication, Atlassian OAuth SSO emerges as a powerful evolution in secure access, eliminating the hassle of multiple passwords for users. As organizations navigate the complexities of growing teams and intricate projects, the shift to Atlassian OAuth SSO becomes a game-changer.

&nbsp;

However, for enhanced SSO and identity management, organizations turn to SCIM apps, either for Jira or Confluence – the transformative solution within the Atlassian ecosystem. Atlassian OAuth SSO ensures a streamlined login process, where users authenticate once through their identity provider (IdP) and gain secure access to Jira, and Confluence. However, the challenge lies in effective user provisioning and management.


### User Provisioning: The Missing Piece {#user-provisioning-the-missing-piece}

SCIM app transforms the puzzle of identity management into a work of art. It seamlessly integrates with Atlassian OAuth SSO, providing a unified solution for both authentication and user provisioning. Atlassian OAuth SSO brings the power of single sign-on, simplifying access for users across various Atlassian products. Meanwhile, SCIM app steps in as the missing piece, extending this simplicity to user provisioning, ensuring that user information is consistently accurate and up-to-date.

&nbsp;

This integration doesn't just stop at efficiency; it also fortifies security. By combining the robust authentication of Atlassian OAuth SSO with the seamless provisioning of SCIM, organizations can create a fortress of identity management. This not only safeguards against unauthorized access but also ensures that the right individuals have the right level of access at all times.

&nbsp;

Let's dive into how this dynamic duo, Atlassian OAuth SSO+SCIM App, can redefine your collaboration experience.


### Instant Gratification: Immediate User Provisioning {#instant-gratification-immediate-user-provisioning}

The concept of "Instant Gratification" within the context of SCIM app immediate user provisioning heralds a significant transformation in the landscape of user onboarding processes. In traditional systems, there exists a temporal gap between the moment a user is added to an identity provider and when they are granted access to specific applications, such as those provided by Atlassian.

&nbsp;

SCIM addresses this challenge by introducing a revolutionary approach that eliminates the delays associated with user provisioning. No more delays between adding a user to your identity provider and gaining access to Atlassian applications. This boosts efficiency, minimizes disruptions, and ensures that your team has instant access to the tools they need.

&nbsp;


### Dynamic Group Mapping: Effortless Synchronization {#dynamic-group-mapping-effortless-synchronization}

Mapping Identity Provider (IdP) groups to application groups with SCIM, streamlines user group and permission management. This enables automatic assignment and updates of user groups and permissions based on changes in IdP groups. For instance, if a user belongs to the administrators group on IdP, admin permissions can be assigned through mapping. If the user is later removed from the administrators group on IdP, they will be automatically removed from the application admin group.

&nbsp;

The mapping process provides two distinctive approaches: **Manual Group Mapping and On-The-Fly Group Mapping**. Manual Group Mapping is the preferred choice when there is a disparity between IdP group names and local application group names, necessitating the manual association of each IdP group with its counterpart in the application. On-the-Fly Group Mapping, on the other hand, is advantageous when IdP group names precisely match local application group names.

&nbsp;


### Syncing User Status with Ease {#syncing-user-status-with-ease}

While Atlassian OAuth SSO provides a robust single sign-on solution, ensuring synchronized user statuses poses a considerable challenge. In response, SCIM app emerges as the essential tool for seamlessly managing user status changes throughout your Atlassian suite, encompassing Jira and Confluence.

&nbsp;

When a user departs from an organization, SCIM app promptly deactivates their accounts across all integrated platforms. This proactive measure not only enhances security by swiftly revoking access but also simplifies the intricate process of user management. SCIM's synchronization capabilities extend beyond mere deactivation; it enables real-time updates, promptly reflecting changes in user roles and permissions across Atlassian applications. This not only ensures enhanced security but also contributes to cost savings by efficiently managing licenses through timely deactivation.

&nbsp;

### Tailored User Identities: Modify Group and Usernames {#tailored-user-identities-modify-group-and-usernames}

SCIM app allows you to modify groups and usernames with special rules. By implementing customized rules for groups and usernames, organizations can not only achieve uniformity but also bolster their security posture. Moreover, our SCIM app  provides the ability to transform usernames systematically, ensuring that they adhere to your organization's standards.

&nbsp;

This not only promotes clarity but also aids in preventing potential security vulnerabilities associated with inconsistent or non-compliant usernames. Consistent and well-structured user identities across applications contribute to a more efficient and secure identity management system, ultimately enhancing the overall cybersecurity framework of your organization.

&nbsp;

### Attributes Redefined: Mapping and Customization {#attributes-redefined-mapping-and-customization}

Attribute mapping involves associating specific user details. By mapping key attributes like username, email, mobile number, and display name to your identity provider, you ensure precise user profiles, fostering a seamless environment across Atlassian applications. This process guarantees consistency and accuracy in user profiles across various platforms.

&nbsp;

It enables organizations to synchronize and uphold uniform information, promoting seamless data exchange and enhancing overall system interoperability. Attribute mapping and customization not only boost accuracy but also contribute to a more personalized and efficient user experience.

&nbsp;

### Embrace the Power: Atlassian OAuth SSO+SCIM App {#embrace-the-power-atlassian-oauth-sso-scim-app}

In a nutshell, Atlassian OAuth SSO+SCIM app is your ticket to streamlined user management and heightened security. While OAuth SSO ensures secure authentication, SCIM takes user provisioning and management to the next level. With immediate provisioning, automated group mapping, and real-time updates, organizations can elevate their security, compliance, and user experience across Atlassian's collaborative tools.

&nbsp;

Don't wait! Embrace the power of Atlassian OAuth SSO+SCIM App today. Experience a compelling solution that makes managing users in Atlassian's collaborative tools easier than ever. For a demo, reach us at **+1 978 658 9387**or email your queries to **support-atlassian@miniorange.atlassian.net**. We're eager to hear from you.



The Atlassian OAuth SSO+SCIM DC combination is not just a solution; it's an invitation to elevate your collaboration effortlessly. In this article, let’s go on a journey into the dynamics of Atlassian OAuth SSO paired with SCIM DC. A powerful integration that redefines user authentication, provisioning, and management across Jira and Crowd. Uncover the seamless synergy of this transformative duo as it elevates the overall user experience.

How Atlassian OAuth SSO and SCIM App Simplifies User Management and Collaboration


## How miniOrange SCIM Simplifies Centralized IDP User Management in Atlassian Apps

If your business relies on various Atlassian applications and services to conduct your day-to-day operations, you would certainly relate that managing user accounts and their access could be challenging and often time consuming. This is where **miniOrange’s User Sync/SCIM** App comes into play.

SCIM an acronym for ‘System for Cross-domain Identity Management’ is a protocol that allows for automated provisioning and de-provisioning of user accounts between different systems. Our app allows seamless login into the **Jira, Confluence. Bitbucket, Crowd** and other Atlassian applications with Identity Provider (IdPs) like [Azure Active Directory, Keycloak, Okta, OneLogin, Oracle and more.](https://developers.miniorange.com/docs/atlassian/scim/overview)

To get a better understanding of its use cases, let’s take Okta as the identity provider and an application, say Jira:

### New Employee Onboarding (User Creation) {#user-creation}

When we talk about user creation, we refer to the process of adding a new user account to various systems that they may require. This usually happens when a new employee joins an organization and would need access to, say for instance, a team collaboration tool (Confluence) or a project management tool (Jira), if a developer then probably a tool to effectively store, manage and monitor codes (Bitbucket).

Let’s say when a new employee joins your company, the IT administrator with user information like username, email, and other relevant details would create a new user account in Okta (IDP), and then miniOrange User Sync/ SCIM ensures that accounts created in Okta is automatically replicated in Jira, profiles and attributes are in sync between both the systems.

### Change in User Information (User Updation) {#user-updation}

User information like email address, phone number, or role may change over time, and it’s essential to keep this information updated and ensure that it is consistent in all applications. Any such changes can also be automatically updated using miniOrange User Sync/ SCIM. Admins can easily update user information in Okta and those changes would reflect in Jira.

For example, if a user changes their phone number, you can update that information in Okta and the changes would be synced in Jira so that it’s consistent with both systems.

### Revoking User Access (Deactivation) {#user-deactivation}

When an employee leaves the company their access to company resources should be removed to maintain security and compliance. It also could be the case that a user’s access to certain systems needs to be revoked based on role change. This process of deactivation is automated just like the above with the app and once a user is deactivated in Okta, SCIM App will automatically deactivate the corresponding user in Jira.

For example: if an employee leaves the company, the HR department would disable their account in Okta and the miniOrange User Sync/SCIM would then automatically disable or remove the user’s account in Jira so that their access to the application is revoked.

### Assigning Groups to Users (Group Mapping) {#assigning-groups-to-users}

![SCIM flow diagram](/blog/assets/2023/miniorange-scim-for-atlassian-apps.webp)

Another essential use case is that it enables admins to manage user access to different resources and applications based on their group, in other words, it refers to the process of associating users with specific groups. With miniOrange User Sync/SCIM, you can map users to groups in Okta and Jira. This ensures that users have the necessary access to resources based on their roles and responsibilities. Group mapping can be done manually or [on the fly](https://developers.miniorange.com/docs/atlassian/scim/user-groups).

**Manual Group Mapping** involves manually assigning users to groups in Okta and Jira. It is useful when your IdP group names and local application group names are different here you would have to map each IdP group to the application group manually.

It allows you to manually map Jira groups with the groups from Okta or filter groups, and make changes to existing users. Manual Group Mapping is useful when you want to manage groups from Okta but the group name differs in Okta and Jira.

For example, if the name of the group in Okta is Dev users but the name of a similar group in Jira is Software_dev. In such scenarios, you would have to manually map each Okta group to the Jira group.

**On-the-fly** group mapping refers to the process of dynamically mapping users to groups. For instance, when group names in Okta and Jira are an exact match, the app would detect the groups and add users to those groups automatically and if a group doesn’t exist in Jira then it would be created.

Let’s say for better clarity, you use Okta for identity and access management and Jira for project management. There are several teams working on different projects, each team has its own group with a unique name, here let us consider “Marketing” group in Okta and a “Marketing” group in Jira. When a new user joins the company, they are added to Okta, and their profile contains information about which team they belong to.

As there is an integration between Okta and Jira using the miniOrange app that supports on-the-fly group mapping. The app detects the team information from Okta and checks if a group with the same name exists in Jira. If a group with the same name exists, the user is automatically added to that group, in this case, “marketing” if not, then a new group ‘marketing’ is created in Jira and the users are added.

The above are just a few of the most common use cases but it’s not just limited to that. **Identity Migration**-moving from one IdP to another, **SSO (Single Sign-On)** can be integrated with our SCIM app, **attribute transfer** to a relying party’s website and more. That brings us to…

### How Do IT Administrators Working with Atlassian Applications Benefit? {#benefits-for-it-admins}

Our SCIM integration offers various benefits to Atlassian application users, be it **Confluence, Jira, Bitbucket, or Crowd.** It is a popular solution among IT admins for user provisioning and de-provisioning. One of the main advantages of SCIM is that it **saves licensing costs** as it automates the user provisioning and de-provisioning process. Organizations with a large number of users can reduce the number of licenses needed for applications thus saving a significant amount of money.

The addon ensures that resources are allocated more efficiently as new users are automatically provisioned with the appropriate access rights. miniOrange User Sync/SCIM allows for **granular control** so that users only have access to the resources they need thus **mitigating the risk of unauthorized access.** All leads to **enhanced security** by ensuring that user access is granted or revoked in a timely manner.

Companies can expect an **increase in productivity** as our app eliminates the need for manual user provisioning and de-provisioning so that your IT staff can focus on more critical tasks. The automated process **reduces the risk of manual errors** as well. With these benefits, your business can look to **improve the overall user experience** eventually leading to higher user satisfaction.

### Summary {#summary}

If you are here, that means you took the time to go through the use cases and the overview of our app. No more time-consuming manual onboarding and offboarding users, employees get easy and quick access to the apps they need to work. You get automated access management that not just saves you time but also money.

You could also go through our other apps that compliment ‘lifecycle management’ such as SSO that would work in tandem to keep you secure. So, set up your employees fast with what they need, and unburden your IT team to focus on the bigger picture. Looking for something specific? Please contact us at **support-atlassian@miniorange.atlassian.net** or raise a support ticket [here](https://miniorange.atlassian.net/servicedesk/customer/portal/2), and keep watching this space for more new and innovative solutions.


SCIM an acronym for ‘System for Cross-domain Identity Management’ is a protocol that allows for automated provisioning and de-provisioning of user accounts between different systems. Our app allows seamless login into the Jira, Confluence, Bitbucket, Crowd and other Atlassian.

How miniOrange SCIM Simplifies Centralized IDP User Management in Atlassian Apps


## Seamless SSO and Identity Management {#seamless-sso-and-identity-management}

In the ever-evolving landscape of digital identity, achieving simplicity and efficiency is paramount. With the latest upgrade to the miniOrange SAML plugins, we're excited to announce the seamless integration of SCIM (System for Cross-domain Identity Management). This transformative addition, bundled for free with the miniOrange SAML plugins, brings a new dimension to your identity management strategy. 

&nbsp;

**This upgrade is available for all the following plugins:-**
1. [JIRA SAML Plugin](https://marketplace.atlassian.com/apps/1215430/mo-jira-saml-sso-single-sign-on-jira-sso-login?hosting=datacenter&tab=overview)
2. [Confluence SAML Plugin](https://marketplace.atlassian.com/apps/1215542/mo-confluence-saml-sso-single-sign-on-confluence-sso-login?hosting=datacenter&tab=overview)
3. [Bitbucket SAML Plugin](https://marketplace.atlassian.com/apps/1216482/mo-bitbucket-saml-sso-single-sign-on-bitbucket-sso-login?hosting=datacenter&tab=overview)

### Unlocking Synergy: SAML and SCIM in Harmony {#unlocking-synergy-saml-and-scim-in-harmony}

**Effortless Onboarding and Offboarding** 🧑‍🤝‍🧑
Imagine a new team member, Sarah, joining your organization. SAML seamlessly grants her access across applications with Single Sign-On (SSO). Before that, SCIM works behind the scenes, instantly creating her accounts and access rights. When another employee John leaves the company, SCIM steps in again, ensuring immediate removal of his access across all applications without manual intervention.

&nbsp;

**Streamlined User Attribute Management** 🚴
Maintaining consistency in user attributes is crucial. For instance, when Sarah gets promoted and joins a new team, SCIM ensures her updated role and group memberships are uniformly reflected across all applications. This meticulous approach eliminates discrepancies in user profiles and enhances accuracy.

&nbsp;

**Enhanced Security through Real-time Access Management** ⏳
Picture this: David, a team member, is terminated. SAML provides secure and straight forward authentication, and when combined with SCIM, it allows you to instantly revoke David's access. This immediate response fortifies your security posture and minimizes potential risks by promptly removing access for deactivated or terminated users.

&nbsp;

**Scalable Identity Management for Growing Organizations** 🦸
As your organization expands, managing user identities can become complex. SAML ensures a unified and secure authentication process. Now, consider Sarah's team growing. SCIM simplifies the complexity of user provisioning, allowing you to easily scale your identity management processes without compromising efficiency. In this dynamic scenario, imagine new team members joining rapidly. SCIM, the superhero of identity management, automates user provisioning, ensuring seamless access for new members to the tools they need. This dual approach of SAML and SCIM not only guarantees a secure authentication process but also streamlines identity management, making it agile and scalable as your organization evolves.

&nbsp;

### How to Experience the Synergy: {#how-to-experience-the-synergy}

1. Update Your miniOrange SAML Plugin to the latest version.
2. Go to the “SCIM” tab in the settings section. You need to download the SCIM plugin separately but it will be available at no extra cost once you purchase our SAML plugin.
3. Here, you can seamlessly configure and customize your SCIM settings to align with your organization's requirements.
4. Once configured, witness the harmonious collaboration between SAML and SCIM. Enjoy the benefits of secure SSO and automated user provisioning, making identity management a smooth and efficient process.

&nbsp;

**Elevate Your Identity Management Strategy** 👆
With SAML and SCIM working in tandem, miniOrange offers a robust solution for organizations seeking a streamlined, secure, and scalable identity management strategy. Upgrade your miniOrange SAML plugin today to unlock the combined power of SAML and SCIM, where simplicity meets security in the realm of digital identity.



In the ever-evolving landscape of digital identity, achieving simplicity and efficiency is paramount. With the latest upgrade to the miniOrange SAML plugins, we're excited to announce the seamless integration of SCIM.

Seamless SSO and Identity Management: Unleashing the Power of SAML and SCIM Integration in miniOrange Plugin 🚀


Are you tired of constantly worrying about unauthorized access to your company’s sensitive data? You’re not alone. 74% of all data breaches involve access to a privileged account, highlighting a critical vulnerability in many organizations. Imagine the chaos and financial loss that can result from just one breach. This is where robust User Access Management (UAM) comes into play..

Regulatory requirements such as [GDPR](https://www.miniorange.com/compliances/gdpr) and [HIPAA](https://www.miniorange.com/compliances/hipaa) demand strict control over data access. Failure to comply can result in hefty fines and legal consequences.

In this article, we will see how UAM ensures authorized access to resources, reducing data breaches and unauthorized access. Effective UAM enhances security, compliance, and operational efficiency, protecting sensitive information and maintaining a strong security posture.

## What is User Access Management? {#What is User Access Management?}

[User management](https://www.miniorange.com/products/user-management) is a critical component of [Identity and Access Management (IAM)](https://www.miniorange.com/what-is-iam-identity-and-access-management) that focuses on controlling and managing user access to an organization’s resources, such as systems, data, and networks. At its core, UAM ensures that the right individuals have the appropriate access to the right resources at the right time, thereby safeguarding sensitive information in compliance with regulatory norms.

## Key Components of User Access Management {#Key Components of User Access Management}

![Key Components of User Access Management](/blog/assets/2024/key-components-of-user-access-management.webp)

- **Identity Verification**: The process of confirming a user’s identity through authentication methods such as passwords, biometrics, or multi-factor authentication (MFA).
- **Access Provisioning**: Granting access to resources based on predefined roles and permissions. This involves creating user accounts, assigning roles, and setting permissions.
- **Role-Based Access Control (RBAC)**: A method of restricting access based on the user’s role within the organization. Each role has specific permissions that define what resources the user can access and what actions they can perform.
- **User Lifecycle Management**: Managing user accounts throughout their lifecycle, from onboarding to offboarding. This includes creating, modifying, and deactivating user accounts as needed.
- **Least Privilege Principle**: Ensuring that users have the minimum level of access necessary to perform their job functions. 
- **Access Reviews and Audits**: Regularly reviewing and auditing user access to ensure that permissions are up-to-date and align with the user’s current role and responsibilities. This helps identify and mitigate any potential security risks.


## The Relationship Between IdM and Access Management (AM) {#The Relationship Between IdM and Access Management (AM)}

The relationship between identity management and access management is symbiotic and essential for robust security. Here’s how they interconnect:

- **Foundation of Security**: IdM provides the foundational identity data that AM relies on to make access decisions. Without accurate identity information, access control mechanisms cannot function effectively.
- **Lifecycle Management**: IdM [manages the lifecycle of user identities](https://www.miniorange.com/blog/what-is-lifecycle-management/), ensuring that access rights are updated as users join, move within, or leave an organization. AM uses this information to grant or revoke access in real-time.
- **Policy Enforcement**: IdM defines user roles and attributes, which AM uses to enforce access policies. For example, a user’s role in IdM might determine their access level in AM.

## Why Do Modern Businesses Need User Access Management? {#Why Do Modern Businesses Need User Access Management?}

UAM is essential for modern organizations to strengthen security, ensure compliance, enhance operational efficiency, improve the user experience, and enable scalability.


### Improved Security

- **Prevent Unauthorized Access**: UAM reduces the risk of data breaches by ensuring only authorized users can access sensitive information.  
- **Reduce data breaches:** Implement access controls to prevent probability of data breaches  
- **Minimize Insider Threats**: By [controlling access levels](https://www.miniorange.in/pam/granular-access-control), organizations can reduce risks associated with internal threats.  
- **Protect Sensitive Information:** Use encryption and [monitoring](https://www.miniorange.com/pam/privileged-session-monitoring) to protect sensitive information related to privileged users.  
- **Cut Credential Theft:** UAM guards against credential theft through MFA.


### Abiding with Regulations

- **Adherence to Standards**: UAM helps meet regulatory requirements by enforcing strict [access controls](https://www.miniorange.com/reverse-proxy/access-control).  
- **Audit Readiness**: It provides detailed logs and reports, making audits more efficient and transparent.


### Operational Efficiency

- **Streamlined Access**: Automating access management saves time and reduces administrative overhead.

### Enhanced User Experience

- **Single Sign-On (SSO)**: Allows users to access multiple applications with one set of credentials, simplifying the login process.  
- [**Self-Service**](https://www.miniorange.com/products/self-service-password-reset-sspr) **Portals**: Empowers users to handle access requests and password resets independently.

### Scalability

- **Adaptability**: UAM scales seamlessly with organizational growth, accommodating more users and complex structures.  
- **Cloud Integration**: Integrates with [cloud services](https://www.miniorange.com/iam/solutions/) to support hybrid and remote work environments.

## User Access Management Best Practices {#User Access Management Best Practices}

Effective UAM is vital for securing organizational resources and ensuring compliance. Here are key best practices:

**1\. Enforce Least Privilege and Role-Based Access**  
   \- Grant users only the permissions necessary for their roles and responsibilities  
   \- Group users with similar needs to simplify permission management  
   \- Regularly review and adjust access rights as roles change

**2\. Strengthen Authentication**  
   \- Implement an extra layer of authentication beyond passwords  
   \- Establish strong password policies, including complexity requirements  
   \- Deploy Single Sign-On (SSO) to manage access across multiple applications

**3\. Automate User Lifecycle Management**  
   \- Streamline [provisioning](https://www.miniorange.in/products/user-provisioning) for new users and role changes  
   \- Implement immediate deprovisioning when users leave  
   \- Integrate consistently across cloud and on-premises environments

**4\. Maintain Continuous Oversight**  
   \- Conduct regular access audits to identify excessive permissions  
   \- Monitor and log user activities to detect suspicious behavior  
   \- Review and update access policies based on audit findings

**5\. Build a Security-Conscious Culture**  
   \- Train users on security policies and best practices  
   \- Promote awareness of potential threats  
   \- Encourage responsible behavior in accessing resources

**6\. Ensure Regulatory Compliance**  
   \- Align practices with relevant regulations (GDPR, HIPAA, etc.)  
   \- Document procedures and maintain audit trails  
   \- Regularly validate compliance requirements

By following these best practices, organizations can strengthen their security posture, streamline operations, and provide a safer working environment for all users.

## The Future of User Access Management {#The Future of User Access Management}

The future of UAM will be shaped by AI integration, biometric authentication, and decentralized identity management. These trends will enhance security, streamline processes, and provide user-centric solutions.

## miniOrange User Access Management Solution {#miniOrange User Access Management Solution}

miniOrange offers a comprehensive UAM solution that includes:

- [**Single Sign-On (SSO)**](https://www.miniorange.com/products/single-sign-on-sso): Seamless access to multiple applications with one set of credentials.  
- **Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA):** Enhanced security through additional verification steps.  
- [**User Provisioning**](https://www.miniorange.com/products/user-provisioning): Automated user account creation, updates, and deactivation.  
- **Role-Based Access Control (RBAC):** Assigns permissions based on user roles.  
- **Audit and Compliance:** Tracks and reports user activities for compliance purposes.

miniOrange offers a comprehensive UAM solution that includes Single Sign-On (SSO), Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), and User Provisioning. These features help businesses secure their workforce, customers, and partners, ensuring seamless and secure access to resources.

Take control of your organization’s security today with miniOrange’s cutting-edge solutions. Request a [demo now](https://www.miniorange.com/#request_demo) and experience the future of UAM\! 

Explore user access management and learn about its fundamentals, functionality, access control models, and IGA.

What is User Access Management?


Cyberattacks and data breaches have been making headlines more frequently lately. Here are a few notable examples:

- The Real Estate Wealth Network, a New York-based online real estate education platform, inadvertently exposed over 1.5 billion records from their database. The unprotected database, containing approximately 1.16 TB of data, was left vulnerable due to non-password-protected folders and system access.
- In April 2022, a former employee of Cash App managed to download information from over 8 million users through the Cash App Investing feature. This breach occurred because the company failed to properly control access properly, even though the individual was no longer employed there.

Both incidents highlight a critical vulnerability: inadequate access control. Monitoring and controlling who has access to critical data has never been more crucial. One of the most effective ways to ensure that only authorized individuals have access to sensitive information is through a robust access control system.

But what exactly is an access control system, and how can it safeguard your organization's sensitive data? Let’s explore the fundamentals of access control in cybersecurity and understand why every organization should prioritize it.

## What is an Access Control in Cybersecurity? {#what-is-an-access-control-in-cybersecurity}

An access control system is a fundamental component of cybersecurity that ensures only authorized individuals can access specific areas or data within a system. It verifies users’ identities and grants access based on their credentials, such as passwords, biometric data, or [multi-factor authentication (MFA)](https://www.miniorange.com/products/multi-factor-authentication-mfa).

In the context of cybersecurity, access control refers to the methods and technologies used to regulate who can view or interact with resources in a digital environment. This process is crucial for preventing unauthorized access to sensitive information and systems, thereby safeguarding an organization’s data.

Access control typically involves three key steps: identifying users, authenticating their credentials, and authorizing them to access specific resources. By enforcing these measures, organizations can ensure that users only have access to the data or systems they are permitted to use, reducing the risk of data breaches or other security incidents. 

But how does an access control system help safeguard data? To get an answer to this question, we need to understand the workings of access control software. 

## How Does Access Control Solution Work? {#how-does-access-control-solution-work}

Access controls verify an individual or entity’s identity and determine their access level and actions based on their username or IP address. Directory services and protocols like [LDAP](https://plugins.miniorange.com/wordpress-ldap-login-intranet-sites) and [SAML](https://plugins.miniorange.com/wordpress-single-sign-on-sso) help manage authentication and authorization, allowing secure access to resources such as applications and web servers.

Let’s go through the step-by-step workflow of the access control system: 

**Authentication:** Verifies the user's identity through methods like passwords, biometrics, or security tokens.

**Permission Checking:** Compares the user's credentials against predefined access rules or roles.

**Access Decision:** Grants or denies access based on the user's permissions and the resource's access rules.

**Resource Protection:** Ensures only authorized users can interact with sensitive data, systems, or physical spaces.

**Security Maintenance:** Helps protect against unauthorized access, data breaches, and other security threats, preserving the organization’s security integrity.

This is the basic mechanism of working of an access control system. But did you know that different types of solutions can cater to different requirements? Well, when it comes to security, we cannot follow the one-size-fits-all approach. Let’s take a walk through different types of access control solutions, 

## Types of Access Control in Cybersecurity {#types-of-access-control-in-cybersecurity}

Access control software comes in various types and is often integrated into a broader identity and access management strategy. These tools can be deployed on-premises, in the cloud, or both, and can manage internal access or customer access. Types of access control solutions include:

**Discretionary Access Control (DAC):** In this model, the owner of the resource decides who can access it. Users are given the flexibility to control access to their own data or resources.

**Mandatory Access Control (MAC):** Here, access rights are regulated by a central authority based on the classification of information and the clearance of the user. It is commonly used in environments requiring high security, such as government agencies.

**Role-Based Access Control (RBAC):** Access rights are assigned based on the user’s role within the organization. This is one of the most commonly used models in enterprises because it simplifies user permissions management.

**Attribute-Based Access Control (ABAC):** This model uses attributes (such as user characteristics, resource types, and environmental factors) to determine access. ABAC offers more granular control compared to RBAC.

Is access control only limited to controlling access to solutions? What is the broader importance of access control solutions? Let me break this news to you - Access control plays a crucial role in regulatory compliance too. 

## Importance of Access Control in Regulatory Compliance {#importance-of-access-control-in-regulatory-compliance}

Effective access control is crucial for regulatory compliance, ensuring that sensitive data is protected according to industry standards. Compliance with regulations like PCI DSS, HIPAA, SOC2, and ISO 27001 is vital for safeguarding information and avoiding penalties.

**PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard):**
Access control is crucial in PCI DSS for protecting cardholder data by limiting access to authorized personnel only, ensuring secure transactions, and maintaining compliance with stringent data security requirements.

**HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act):**
In HIPAA, access control safeguards patient information by restricting access to authorized users, ensuring that healthcare providers comply with privacy and security standards, and protecting sensitive health data from unauthorized access.

**SOC 2 (System and Organization Controls 2):**
Access control in SOC 2 ensures that only authorized personnel can access sensitive data, maintaining the integrity and confidentiality of information systems, and demonstrating adherence to strict data protection and privacy practices.

**ISO 27001 (International Organization for Standardization 27001):**
Access control in ISO 27001 is vital for protecting information assets by implementing stringent access policies, ensuring authorized access only, and aligning with global standards for information security management.

## Challenges of Access Control {#challenges-of-access-control}

Access control systems play a crucial role in cybersecurity, but they face significant challenges. Effective management of these systems requires addressing various complexities to ensure robust protection and compliance. Key challenges include:

**Complex Permission Management:** Handling intricate permission structures and frequent updates can be challenging, particularly in large organizations.

**System Integration Issues:** Integrating access control with legacy systems complicates the implementation of consistent security policies.

**Scalability Concerns:** Adjusting access levels and roles as organizations grow can strain existing systems.

**User Convenience vs. Security:** Ensuring access control measures don’t impede productivity while maintaining robust security is difficult.

**Adaptation to Evolving Threats:** Constantly updating access controls to address new and emerging threats is essential but challenging.

**Regulatory Compliance:** Maintaining adherence to changing regulatory standards requires ongoing vigilance and adjustments.

## Access Control Software Components {#access-control-software-components}

While access control software secures sensitive resources by managing who can access the data, its key components ensure comprehensive protection and streamlined user experiences. 

**Authentication:**
Authentication, as mentioned above, verifies user identities through credentials like passwords, biometrics, or multi-factor authentication, ensuring that only legitimate users gain entry to the system.

**Authorization:**
While [authentication and authorization](https://www.miniorange.com/blog/authentication-authorization-difference/) may sound similar, the latter determines what authenticated users can access, granting permissions based on roles or policies to control access to resources and maintain security.

**Access:**
Access ensures that users can efficiently reach the resources they are authorized to use, enabling seamless operations while keeping unauthorized entities out.

**User Management:**
User management handles the creation, maintenance, and deactivation of user accounts, ensuring that access is consistently aligned with organizational roles and responsibilities.

**Audit:**
Auditing, tracking, and logging user activities within the system is crucial. This provides essential data for security reviews, compliance, and the identification of suspicious or unauthorized actions.

## What Should You Expect from Access Control Solutions? {#what-should-you-expect-from-access-control-solutions}

Now that you know what an access control solution is and how it works, let’s go through a few tools and features that make a robust access control software that can secure, streamline, and simplify user access to organizational resources. 

[**Single Sign-On (SSO):**](https://www.miniorange.com/products/single-sign-on-sso)
Allowing users to access multiple applications with a single set of credentials reduces the need to remember multiple passwords, enhances user experience, and strengthens security by centralizing authentication.

[**Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA):**](https://www.miniorange.in/products/multi-factor-authentication-mfa)
An extra layer of security cannot harm! MFA requires users to provide multiple verification forms—such as a password, token, and biometrics before gaining access.


[**User Lifecycle Management :**](https://www.miniorange.in/products/user-lifecycle-management)
Automating the entire user journey from onboarding to offboarding ensures that user access rights are aligned with their role and updated as they change positions or leave the organization, reducing security risks and saving time.

**Password Management:**
Password management simplifies the creation, storage, and reset of passwords, ensuring that users adhere to strong password policies. It reduces the risk of password-related breaches by promoting secure password practices across the organization.

[**User Provisioning/Deprovisioning:**](https://www.miniorange.in/products/user-provisioning)
Automating the process of granting and revoking user access to systems and applications allows the users to have appropriate access from the start and that access is promptly removed when no longer needed, minimizing the potential for unauthorized access.

**Reporting and Monitoring:**
Comprehensive reporting and monitoring tools track user activities, access patterns, and potential security incidents. These features provide valuable insights for compliance audits, security reviews, and identifying any unusual behavior that could indicate a threat.

## Unlock the Full Potential of Your Security with miniOrange Access Control Solutions {#unlock-the-full-potential-of-your-security-with-miniOrange-access-control-solutions}

In today’s complex IT environments, ensuring robust access control is essential for maintaining security and regulatory compliance. miniOrange offers comprehensive solutions to address every component of access control, making your organization safer and more efficient. 

We specialize in providing comprehensive identity and access solutions designed to safeguard your most valuable assets. Prioritizing access control is not just a best practice; it’s a vital component of your cybersecurity strategy. Investing in a comprehensive access control system today with miniOrange’s expert solutions can save your organization from the costly and damaging consequences of unauthorized access tomorrow.

## Conclusion {#conclusion}

In a world where cyber threats and data breaches are increasingly common, implementing a robust access control system is more critical than ever. By carefully managing who can access your sensitive information and systems, you not only protect your organization from potential security threats but also enhance overall data integrity and privacy.


Explore how access control systems protect sensitive data by regulating who can access critical information, preventing cyberattacks, and ensuring compliance.

Why Access Control is Key to Preventing Data Breaches?

### What is Just in Time (JIT) Provisioning? {#what-is-just-in-time-jit-provisioning}
**JIT provisioning** automates the creation and updation of user accounts in web applications. It delivers information from an identity provider to web apps via the SAML (Security Assertion Markup Language) protocol.

IT administrators no longer have to manually create accounts for each user in every application thanks to JIT provisioning. Rather, user accounts are created when users attempt to log in to applications for the first time, as long as they have the authorization to do so. 

Just in Time (JIT) Provisioning is used to create users the first time they log in to an application via a third-party identity provider. JIT provisioning eliminates the need to provision users or create user accounts manually. This saves effort and time. JIT Provisioning is independent of the SSO protocol used by the application but it’s vital to note that for this approach to work, the web application must support Just in Time (JIT) Provisioning. 

### How does Just in Time (JIT) provisioning work? {#how-does-just-in-time-jit-provisioning-work}
To enable JIT provisioning, administrators must first set up [Single Sign-On (SSO)](https://www.miniorange.com/products/single-sign-on-sso) between the target service provider i.e., web application and the identity provider and confirm that the user attributes required by the application are included. As a result, when new users attempt to log in to the application for the very first time, they will instantly invoke the creation of their account, rather than requiring an admin to do it. SAML assertions provide the web application with the information it requires from the identity provider.

Admins can use a centralized cloud identity provider or an SSO service built on top of their traditional directory to achieve this workflow. They must ensure that the selected service provider supports JIT provisioning during setup. Slack and Atlassian suite are some popular examples of applications that offer JIT provisioning.

For example, if your organization hires many new employees, you’ll want to set up user accounts for them as quickly and smoothly as possible. For this, you can first set up SSO and JIT provisioning in all the applications. Once it is configured, when new employees use SSO to log in to an application, the JIT provisioning approach creates their accounts automatically.

Also, when user attributes are updated in the identity provider, these attributes are automatically updated in all the various applications that the user has used.

The most efficient way to deploy Just in Time Provisioning is to use an identity provider like miniOrange since admins can then configure application privileges by role or group and remove application access from a single location.

![JIT Provisioning](/blog/assets/2023/jit-workflow.webp) 

### How is SAML SSO related to Just in Time (JIT) Provisioning? {#how-is-saml-sso-related-to-just-in-time-jit-provisioning}
**SAML SSO** can be [identity provider (IDP) initiated or service provider (SP) initiated](https://www.miniorange.com/blog/idp-initiated-sp-initiated-login/). In the IDP initiated SSO, users first login to their SSO portal where they can access all the applications in which they have configured SSO. In SP initiated SSO, the user first visits the application and is redirected to their SSO portal where they are logged in automatically by their identity provider.

[SAML protocol](https://www.miniorange.com/iam/solutions/saml-single-sign-on-sso) is safe because instead of transmitting user credentials, it sends XML-based certificates which are distinct to each application. As a result, the service provider never obtains their credentials or keeps track of them.

There isn’t much difference between SAML SSO and JIT provisioning. Users that use SAML SSO only have to provide their credentials once per session to access all of the applications they need to get their work done. Using Just in Time (JIT) Provisioning on top of SSO helps to automate the whole process of user account creation. This makes IT operations like the onboarding process much more efficient and smooth.’

### What are the benefits of Just in Time (JIT) provisioning? {#what-are-the-benefits-of-just-in-time-jit-provisioning}
**SAML SSO** can be identity provider (IDP) initiated or service provider (SP) initiated. In the IDP initiated SSO, users  
- JIT provisioning automates the process of creating accounts for users on various applications. Thus, it saves time and reduces the workload of admins.
- It reduces the IT administrative costs as instead of doing routine tasks, the IT admins can dedicate their time for more important tasks. Also, JIT provisioning prevents the need to synchronize the Identity Provider (IDP) and Service Provider (SP) user stores manually.
- With the use of JIT provisioning, the whole account creation process becomes streamlined. The users won’t need to create additional accounts for every application they want to use, thus, it reduces unnecessary account creation.
- JIT provisioning also increases the security of an organization as the users use only one identity to access all the applications. It also applies password policies for all the accounts created automatically. This helps to prevent Identity Sprawl.

### Conclusion {#conclusion}
Just in Time (JIT) Provisioning is a SAML protocol based method that is used to create users the first time they log in to an application via an identity provider. This eliminates the need to provision users or create user accounts manually. Although JIT Provisioning is independent of the SSO protocol used by the application, it is necessary that the application supports JIT Provisioning. Just in Time (JIT) Provisioning automates the whole process of user account creation. It reduces the administrative costs, increases efficiency, productivity and security of an organization.

If you are looking to implement Just in Time (JIT) Provisioning, contact miniOrange to know more about the solution and its pricing.





Just in Time Provisioning (JIT) automates the creation of user accounts in web applications. It delivers user information from the identity provider to web apps via the SAML protocol.