A service that creates, maintains, and manages identity information for users and non-human entities.
Description
In the realm of Non-Human Identity Management, an Identity Provider (IdP) is a critical component that facilitates the authentication and authorization of non-human entities such as applications, devices, and services. These entities often require recognized identities to interact securely in digital ecosystems. An IdP issues digital identities and credentials which are used to verify the identity of non-human entities during transactions or data exchanges. This is particularly important in environments where automated systems and devices need to authenticate with each other without human intervention. The IdP manages the lifecycle of identities, including creation, updating, and revocation, ensuring that only authenticated entities can access specific resources or perform actions. This enhances security, fosters trust, and enables seamless integration across various platforms and services. Moreover, as the Internet of Things (IoT) expands, the role of IdPs becomes even more critical, as they help manage a diverse array of non-human identities, providing a scalable solution to identity verification and access control.
Examples
- OAuth 2.0 providers (e.g., Google, Microsoft)
- SAML-based IdPs (e.g., Okta, OneLogin)
Additional Information
- IdPs can support both human and non-human identities.
- They play a vital role in federated identity management systems.