Privileged Access Management (PAM) in JumpCloud – why is it crucial for IT security?

Organizations increasingly rely on privileged accounts to manage their IT environments. Without proper control, these accounts pose a serious security risk. That’s why companies should implement Privileged Access Management (PAM) – a solution that enables them to manage, control, and protect all privileged access.

What is Privileged Access Management (PAM)?

Privileged Access Management (PAM) is a way to control who has access to the most sensitive parts of IT systems, when they can access them, and whether access is secure. The simplest comparison is a digital key cabinet – PAM stores, monitors, and decides who can use the “master keys,” for how long, and under what conditions.

In most organizations, system administrators, IT staff, and service accounts have access to resources unavailable to standard users. This is why PAM in JumpCloud focuses on protecting these accounts – because they are prime targets for cyberattacks.

While Identity and Access Management (IAM) governs access for all users, Privileged Access Management (PAM) focuses only on high-risk accounts and users. You could say PAM is a specialized part of IAM.

Why is PAM so important?

Modern IT environments are becoming more complex. Attacks are more targeted, and regulations such as NIS2 and ISO 27001 demand strict access control.

According to research, as many as 80% of IT security incidents involve compromised privileged credentials. A cybercriminal who gains access to an admin account can disable protections, steal data, or shut down critical systems.

Privileged Access Management (PAM) in JumpCloud reduces this risk. It allows granting admin rights only for a limited time, rotating passwords, and logging and monitoring all privileged activities.

Benefits of Implementing JumpCloud PAM

• Higher IT security – the principle of least privilege and complete audit logs.

• Simplified management – centralized control over all privileged accounts in both cloud and on-premises environments.

• Scalability – consistent access policies across hybrid and multi-cloud environments.

• Lower incident costs – fewer breaches and reduced business impact.

• Easier audits – automated reports aligned with NIS2, GDPR, and ISO 27001 requirements.

How to Implement PAM in Your Organization

Implementing Privileged Access Management (PAM) can be broken down into several steps:

1. Inventory all privileged accounts, including service and technical accounts.

2. Define goals and risks, such as reducing the attack surface or meeting audit requirements.

3. Access policy – clearly defined roles, permissions, and emergency procedures.

4. Choose the right solution, such as JumpCloud PAM, which meets security, compliance, and scalability needs.

5. Implement with a partner – for example, with Kappa Data, which supports companies in designing and deploying PAM.

Conclusion

Privileged Access Management (PAM) in JumpCloud is a practical way to secure privileged accounts and meet regulatory requirements. This gives organizations control over critical access, minimizes the risk of cyberattacks, and simplifies management.