A specialized account used to manage and authenticate non-human entities accessing server resources.
Description
In the context of Non-Human Identity Management, a server account is a type of account that is created specifically for automated processes, applications, or services rather than for individual human users. These accounts are critical for enabling seamless interactions between systems, applications, and services without the need for human intervention. Server accounts typically have specific permissions and access controls to ensure that they can perform necessary functions while minimizing security risks. They are often employed for tasks such as running scheduled jobs, accessing databases, and interacting with APIs. The management of server accounts includes monitoring their activities, ensuring that they follow the principle of least privilege, and regularly reviewing their permissions. This is essential for maintaining security and compliance within an organization. Due to their nature, server accounts may have complex password policies and may also require the implementation of multi-factor authentication to enhance security further.
Examples
- A database server account used by an application to connect to the database.
- An automation script account that performs scheduled backups on a server.
Additional Information
- Server accounts should be managed separately from human user accounts to enhance security.
- Regular audits and monitoring of server account activity are recommended to detect any unauthorized access.