Best Privileged Access Management Software

Privileged Access Management (PAM) software is a critical security tool that helps organizations protect their most sensitive IT assets by managing and securing access to privileged accounts. These solutions safeguard the “keys to the IT kingdom” by ensuring only authorized individuals can access admin-level accounts on crucial company systems.

Key features include:

• Centralized secure vault for credential storage
• Least privilege access policy enforcement
• User activity monitoring and logging
• Just-in-time access provisioning
• Access control based on permissions and timeframes

PAM software works alongside Identity and Access Management (IAM) solutions but provides more granular control over administrative or privileged user identities. Unlike password managers for everyday users, PAM tools focus on protecting super users, shared company accounts, and service accounts with centralized control and monitoring.

To qualify for the Privileged Access Management category, a product must:

• Allow administrators to create and provision privileged access accounts
• Offer a secure vault to store privileged credentials or provision users with just-in-time access
• Monitor, record, and log user actions while using privileged accounts

The main advantage of PAM software is its ability to prevent external hacking and internal misuse of critical company assets. Organizations can improve their security by implementing least-privilege access policies and providing comprehensive monitoring and control over privileged accounts.