IAM, or Identity and Access Management, is the set of policies and tools that control who can access your systems and data. It makes sure each person can reach only what they need, and only for as long as they need it.
IAM covers things like single sign-on, multi-factor authentication, and role-based access. It prevents both outsiders from getting in and insiders from having more access than their job requires. When someone leaves or changes roles, a good IAM system removes or adjusts their access right away.
