Identity Fabric

Identity Fabric is a concept often used loosely, leading to confusion in the industry. However, in November 2023, Gartner Research clarified its definition, outlining its key characteristics and value for modern organizations.

At its core, this is a unified approach to managing who can access what within an organization. It ensures that both people and machines securely access the right resources at the right time. Unlike traditional systems that rely on fragmented tools, this approach integrates these tools into one flexible, cohesive system.

This approach is a cornerstone of identity-first security, where managing identities—whether they belong to users, accounts, or machines—takes center stage in protecting resources and preventing breaches.

How Does Identity Fabric Work?

Identity fabric connects various identity tools and processes, such as authentication, permissions, and security monitoring. It leverages real-time data sharing and automation to make faster, smarter access decisions.

This enables organizations to respond quickly to risks and support secure access across complex environments, including both cloud and on-premises systems. Rather than requiring a full overhaul of existing tools, companies can gradually weave their current systems into the fabric, creating a unified yet adaptable solution.

Why Is It So Important?

Outdated or siloed identity systems often fail to work together, leading to inefficiencies, higher costs, and security gaps. Identity fabric resolves these issues by simplifying and unifying identity management. It enhances security, reduces operational burdens, and improves overall efficiency.

Organizations looking to build an identity fabric need scalable, flexible solutions—like those offered by Akeyless—that integrate seamlessly with existing systems. By enabling automation and secure access for both people and machines, identity fabric equips businesses to stay ahead of evolving security threats while preparing for future needs.