Why is 'just-in-time' access considered a security practice in Defender PAM?

'Just-in-time' access is a pivotal security practice in Defender PAM because it grants users the minimum level of access necessary for them to complete their tasks and only for the duration that they need it. This approach minimizes the risk of unauthorized access to sensitive resources, as users do not retain access privileges indefinitely. By enabling access only when required, organizations can reduce the attack surface, ensuring that even if credentials are compromised, their usability is limited in time and scope.

This practice also aligns with the principle of least privilege, where users have the least amount of privilege necessary to perform their duties. By limiting access, the likelihood of data breaches and misuse of sensitive information is significantly reduced. Regular auditing and monitoring of just-in-time access can further enhance security by allowing organizations to track when and how access is granted and used, thus providing better oversight of user activity.

In contrast, permanent access would imply that users have ongoing access regardless of need, potentially increasing security vulnerabilities. While training needs and password change frequency may contribute to overall security strategies, they do not directly relate to the core function and benefit of just-in-time access in safeguarding sensitive data and maintaining controlled user access.