Secure Infrastructure Access (SIA) Using CyberArk
- Kanchan Khatri
- Mar 20
- 3 min read
CyberArk Privileged Access Manager (PAM) provides agentless, non-intrusive security for privileged accounts while enforcing Zero Standing Privileges (ZSP) across on-prem, hybrid, and cloud environments. CyberArk Secure Infrastructure Access (SIA) extends this security by enabling just-in-time (JIT), VPN-less, MFA-secured access to critical infrastructure such as Windows, Linux, databases, and Kubernetes.
CyberArk PAM & SIA Integration: Significant Points to Know
1. Zero Standing Privileges (ZSP) & Just-in-Time (JIT) Access
To minimize the entry point for attackers ZSP and JIT are used, removing the need for permanent credentials to access privileged accounts. To enhance security the use of privileges is restricted by providing them only when necessary and in a time-bound manner. Once the session ends, the access is automatically revoked thereby implementing the least privilege model.
2. Session Monitoring and Isolations
To ensure transparency and compliance, all the activities are tracked and recorded. Every session has its own secure space to operate reducing the probability of unauthorized access by keeping credentials safe. Seamless connections with SIEM tools allow on-time threat detection followed by immediate response.
3. Agentless, VPN-less Secure Access
VPN security risks are removed by eliminating VPN dependency and allowing users to connect natively through SSH, RDP, or database clients. There is no more need for jump servers and additional software installations simplifying IT infrastructure, minimizing operational costs, and unwelcomed attacks. Multifactor Authentication MFA on top of this adds an extra layer of security.
4. Seamless Access to Vaulted Credentials
For secure credential retrieval, SIA utilizes existing CyberArk PAM policies. This eliminates the need for organizations to create new security policies reducing admin workload while being security compliant. User authentication via SIA and CyberArk PAM through the vault removes the need to manually enter credentials eliminating chances of human errors. This vault system eliminates the need for user credential handling, reducing credential theft risks.
5. Flexible Deployment (Cloud & On-Prem)
For CyberArk Privilege Cloud: Only the SIA Connector needs to be deployed. This simplifies deployment reducing setup time and operational complexity. Indeed the requirement for infrastructural changes is minimal reducing IT overhead and maintenance costs. For CyberArk PAM - Self-Hosted: Additional configurations are required for integration providing more customizations and control over policies.
6. Co-existence with Other CyberArk Security Solutions
For resources beyond Windows, Linux, databases, and Kubernetes, CyberArk SIA works alongside:
• Privileged Session Manager (PSM): Securely accesses applications requiring client-based authentication.
• Secure Web Sessions: Protects web-based applications & cloud consoles.
• Secure Cloud Access: Manages privileged cloud access.
• Identity Single Sign-On (SSO): Enables secure authentication across enterprise applications.
Deployment Considerations For Secure Infrastructure Access
When it comes to deploying SIA with CyberArk there are a set of considerations that need to be taken care of. The way we deploy makes a big difference in security, efficiency, and ease of management. Thus following deployment considerations must be looked after for the right setup:
1. For CyberArk Privilege Cloud
a. Deploy the SIA Connector → Enables secure, agentless access.
b. Integrate with CyberArk Vault & Safes → Uses existing access control policies.
2. For CyberArk PAM - Self-Hosted
a. Install & Configure SIA Components → Additional steps required for on-prem deployment.
b. Define Policies & RBAC Controls → Ensure least-privilege access enforcement.
c. Configure Session Recording & Auditing → Integrate with SIEM for real-time monitoring.
CyberArk PAM and SIA integration together brings a significant improvement in the stream of IAM and cybersecurity solutions. If you are planning on bringing this solution as one of your cybersecurity measures then IDMEXPRESS is here for you.
IDMEXPRESS is a popular customized Identity & Access Management and Cybersecurity Solution provider for different organizations across businesses. Book a FREE CONSULTATION SESSION today to secure your tomorrow.
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