We often discuss the substantial impact of our Privileged Access Management (PAM) solutions on our clients’ operations, addressing complex security challenges and streamlining access across vast networks. Today, however, we want to take a different route and delve into how we applied our own PAM technology to enhance and secure our internal processes, providing a first-hand view of its effectiveness.
The Shift to Modern Infrastructure
Like many tech companies, Soffid’s infrastructure is a blend of bespoke and commercial applications. While the commercial applications are occasionally built on cutting-edge, robust platforms, this isn’t always the case. Recognizing the need for improved security and system availability, we recently transitioned all our services to a modern Kubernetes platform, deploying applications as micro-containers—a move that has significantly benefited us across various dimensions.
Challenges in Legacy Application Management
Despite the advantages, this shift introduced new challenges, particularly when dealing with legacy applications that require occasional troubleshooting. Previously, IT personnel would interact directly with the host machine to perform maintenance tasks. However, the absence of a host in the new setup necessitated an alternative approach to maintain system integrity without sacrificing operational flexibility.
The Role of PAM in Simplifying Access
Addressing this challenge required a thoughtful application of PAM solutions. We established a PAM entry point that dynamically grants IT staff access to the necessary Kubernetes pods as needed. This solution not only ensures security but also simplifies operations for our staff, who are less familiar with Kubernetes operations. Here’s how it works:
- Automated Access and Control: Upon initiating a session through the PAM entry point, the system automatically connects to the Kubernetes cluster, identifies the necessary pod, and establishes a secure session.
- Comprehensive Recording: Every session is meticulously recorded, capturing screen activity and keystrokes, which is crucial for auditing and compliance.
- Enhanced File Management: Our PAM system facilitates seamless file transfers to and from the pod, allowing for efficient patch updates and log retrievals.
Benefits Realized Through PAM Implementation
The introduction of PAM into our Kubernetes environment has yielded remarkable benefits:
- Enhanced Security: By managing and monitoring access to critical systems, we’ve bolstered our security measures to protect against potential breaches.
- Increased System Availability: Streamlined operations mean fewer disruptions and higher system reliability.
- Boosted Productivity: Simplified access and management tools have made our IT staff more efficient, significantly reducing the time spent on routine tasks.
A Model for Internal Security and Efficiency
This implementation serves not only as a testament to the robustness of our PAM solution but also illustrates our commitment to applying the same level of security and efficiency we advocate for our clients to our internal operations. It underscores our belief in our products and our continual commitment to innovation and security.
This practical application of our PAM solution internally illustrates the tangible benefits it can bring to any organization. Whether dealing with complex legacy systems or modern infrastructures, the principles of effective privilege management remain constant. We invite you to explore how Soffid’s PAM solutions can elevate your organization’s security and operational efficiency just as they have ours.
Discover more about our innovative approaches and the comprehensive benefits of Privileged Access Management by visiting our web and learning from our journey towards enhanced internal cybersecurity.
