Systems

Identity-Aware Proxy (IAP) is a Google Cloud Platform service that centralizes user access to SaaS applications and other cloud resources accessed by HTTPS. IAP secures authentication for requests made to virtual machines running on GCP and other cloud-based and on-premises applications, only granting access to users you authorize. With IAP, users can connect from untrusted networks without using a VPN.

Twingate started in 2019 in response to the growing challenges of managing access for a remote workforce. The product offers a zero-trust, cloud-based solution that aims to replace Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) by providing a secure, quick-to-implement solution for IT admins and everyday users. However, if you have a distributed workforce in need of access to databases, Kubernetes clusters, cloud CLIs, switches, routers, or internal web applications, there are other tools to consider. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the strengths and weaknesses of a few alternatives. But first, a side-by-side look at the features you may want to consider.

Thycotic was founded in 1996 as a consulting company and has evolved into a leading provider of Privileged Access Management (PAM). Thycotic’s Privilege Manager is a tool that allows organizations to secure access for privileged administrators (typically systems and database administrators) to Windows Servers, Linux servers, and some database management systems through a centralized authentication method. It does not secure access to modern and cloud-native databases, Kubernetes clusters, the cloud CLIs, switches, routers, or internal web applications.

Tailscale is a zero-configuration virtual private cloud that builds secure networks for WireGuard-encrypted traffic. Tailscale replaces traditional VPNs with a coordination node that acts as a control plane to manage keys and identities. This allows you to create a secure network between cloud resources without the need for firewall configuration changes. However, if your goal is to centralize and secure access to databases, servers, Kubernetes, and more, a VPN (even a fancy modern one) may not be the best approach. In this blog post, we’ll look at the strengths and weaknesses of a few alternatives. First, however, a quick comparison matrix of features may give you the information you’re looking for right away.

AWS Cognito is a user authentication service that lets you add access control to your web and mobile apps. Cognito manages sign-up, sign-in, password changes, token refresh, data synchronization, and updates to user account attributes. The service is initially free for AWS users, and the pricing model scales as your user base grows.

HashiCorp Boundary is an open-source identity access management (IAM) tool that facilitates secure user access to dynamic hosts and critical infrastructure across environments. However, if you need a simple and secure way to manage access to databases, Kubernetes clusters, cloud CLIs, switches, routers, or internal web applications, there are other services to consider. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at a few alternatives and discuss the strengths and weaknesses of each. First, a quick side-by-side comparison of the features you may want to consider.

CyberArk’s Privileged Access Manager is a tool that allows organizations to secure access for privileged administrators (typically systems and database administrators) to Windows Servers, Linux servers, and some database management systems via a centralized authentication method. However, if you need to secure access to modern and cloud-native databases, Kubernetes clusters, cloud CLIs, switches, routers, or internal web applications, there are other options to consider.

Okta’s Advanced Server Access (ScaleFT) is a tool allowing organizations to secure access to SSH and RDP servers via a centralized authentication method. However, if you need to secure access to databases, Kubernetes clusters, the cloud CLIs, switches, routers, or internal web applications, there are other options to consider.

Abstract-away usernames and passwords and allow the systems administrator to keep the master passwords safe under lock & key.

SSH audit logs allow you to determine, either retroactively or in real-time, when an unauthorized or destructive action was taken, and by whom.

Should application developers have access to production database systems? This is a question as old as Vampires and Werewolves.

There are a number of ways to automate user provisioning but the real challenge lies in keeping track of those credentials.