Non-Human Identity Management Overview

This document is a guide that defines and explains non-human identity management (NHIM). It describes non-human identities (NHIs) as digital credentials assigned to automated entities such as machines and software, which are essential for secure communication and operation within IT ecosystems. The guide outlines the differences between human and non-human identities, emphasizing the decentralized nature and security challenges associated with NHIs. It provides examples of NHIs across various domains, including IoT devices, software-defined infrastructure, and service accounts. Additionally, the document discusses the importance of NHIM in the context of cybersecurity, operational efficiency, and regulatory compliance. It details the processes involved in managing NHIs, including identity provisioning, authentication, authorization, and lifecycle management. The guide also addresses challenges faced in NHIM, such as overprovisioning, limited visibility, and the evolving threat landscape, while recommending best practices to enhance security and management of non-human identities.