Identity has become the new security perimeter. Cyberattacks increasingly target user credentials and privileged accounts. As a result, managed service providers (MSPs) need stronger identity security without sacrificing efficiency or scalability.
But with so many options available, how do you choose the right identity and access management (IAM) platform?
We asked an MSP identity security expert to share key considerations MSPs should evaluate before adding an IAM solution to their technology stack.
Can it consolidate multiple security functions?
Many MSPs use separate tools for multifactor authentication (MFA), privileged access management (PAM), password management, and single sign-on (SSO). While each tool may solve a specific problem, managing multiple vendors and interfaces can increase operational complexity.
When evaluating IAM solutions, look for platforms that bring these functions together. A consolidated approach can simplify administration, reduce training requirements, and help technicians work more efficiently.
Threat report data suggests that greater identity complexity can increase the risk of overlooked configurations, which could potentially contribute to a breach.
MSP expert tip: Fewer dashboards and stronger integrations with existing MSP tools can give technicians more time to support customers and keep them secure.
Was it designed with MSPs in mind?
Not every IAM platform addresses the unique needs of MSPs.
A solution designed for MSPs should offer:
- Multi-tenant management through a single pane of glass
- Role-based access controls for managed and co-managed IT
- Integrations with common MSP tools, such as PSAs
- Multi-tenant and global policy management
- Fast deployment through RMM tools or basic scripts
- Efficient onboarding for new customers
- White-labeling for each tenant
- No publicly advertised pricing
- Opportunities to generate new revenue and margins
- Strong partner success and enablement
These capabilities can help MSPs manage identity security consistently across hundreds or even thousands of users and customer environments.
MSP expert tip: Ask vendors to demonstrate how a technician would onboard a new customer or make a configuration change across multiple tenants.
How easy is it to deploy and manage?
The best security solutions are the ones that get adopted.
Complicated deployments and lengthy implementations can delay value and increase operational costs. Look for solutions that simplify deployment and ongoing management while helping you standardize security policies across customers.
Questions to ask:
- How quickly can your MSP get onboarded?
- How quickly can you onboard new customers?
- What does deploying agents or integrations require?
- How much day-to-day administration does the platform require?
- Can you manage policies centrally?
Does it improve security and operational efficiency?
Security and efficiency should go hand in hand.
Identity-related requests can account for a significant portion of service desk activity. A modern IAM platform should reduce administrative overhead while strengthening security through controls such as:
- Multifactor authentication for laptops, desktops, servers, and hardware appliances
- Least-privilege access for MSP technicians and customer end users
- Credential vaulting and encrypted storage
- Automated password rotation as often as every hour
- Single sign-on for eligible web applications
- Identity verification for users who contact the help desk
The right platform should help technicians resolve issues faster while reducing risk.
MSP expert tip: Evaluate how the platform manages privileged credentials. Solutions that eliminate shared passwords and automate credential management can significantly improve security.
Can it create new revenue opportunities?
Leading MSPs increasingly package identity security as a managed service.
When evaluating IAM solutions, consider how the platform can support:
- Managed security offerings
- Compliance services
- User security awareness initiatives
- Identity governance engagements
- Recurring revenue opportunities
The right platform should protect customers while supporting business growth.
Final thoughts
Choosing an IAM platform isn’t just a security decision. It’s also an operational and business decision.
MSPs should prioritize solutions that simplify identity and privileged access management, improve technician efficiency, strengthen security, and support scalable service delivery.
Platforms that consolidate MFA, SSO, PAM, and password management can reduce complexity while providing a stronger foundation for identity security.
As identity attacks increase, the right IAM platform can help MSPs better protect customers and build more profitable security services.
Wondering what a consolidated IAM platform looks like in practice? Schedule a demo with Evo Security to see how MSPs can simplify identity security through a single, multi-tenant platform.
Photo: Tualek Photographer / Shutterstock
This post originally appeared on Smarter MSP.