How to Use Adaptive Authentication In Company Networks

Adaptive authentication is a user identity verification and authorization method that adapts its rules based on various factors such as user location, device status, and behavior. The method continually evaluates risks to ensure data security throughout user sessions.

Also known as context-based or risk-based authentication, adaptive auth uses a user’s profile and defined risk factors to intelligently identify malicious attempts and determine the most appropriate authentication method to use. 

How adaptive authentication works

By knowing how to identify malicious access requests and attempts and weigh their risks to the network, adaptive authentication simplifies access for legitimate users while requiring additional authentication steps (step-up authentication) for the users it flags as high-risk.

For instance, if you're accessing the network from your usual workstation, the system might only require a simple password. But if you log in from a coffee shop or an unfamiliar device, it could prompt for additional verification steps like biometrics or one-time passwords (OTPs). This constantly evolving authentication method helps to maintain a high level of security without being overly intrusive.

Let's say an employee accesses corporate applications from a personal device. The adaptive authentication system might restrict certain functions, like file downloads or copy-pasting, to limit potential security breaches. On the other hand, if the same employee logs in from a managed device within the office, they might have full access without additional verification steps.

Another example is the use of multi-factor authentication (MFA) when suspicious behavior is detected. If an employee suddenly attempts to access sensitive data they've never accessed before, the system can prompt for MFA to verify their identity. If the behavior continues to be suspicious, access can be entirely blocked to prevent a potential breach.

Incorporating adaptive authentication into a zero-trust security model is crucial. It ensures that every access request is scrutinized, reducing the risk of unauthorized access. This is particularly important with the rise of remote and hybrid work models where employees might use various devices and networks.

Corporate networks also benefit from combining adaptive authentication with single sign-on (SSO) solutions. This combination allows employees to access multiple applications with one set of credentials, streamlining the login process while maintaining robust security. If any unusual activity is detected, the adaptive authentication system steps in to reassess the user's access rights.

Differences between adaptive and traditional authentication methods

Traditional authentication uses a one-size-fits-all approach. It typically involves static methods like passwords, PINs, or security tokens. Everyone gets asked the same questions regardless of the scenario. 

Whether you're logging in from your usual workstation or from halfway across the world, the system doesn’t change its behavior. This approach can often miss the nuances and varied risks associated with different user behaviors or login attempts.

Adaptive authentication, on the other hand, adjusts based on real-time context. A good example to illustrate this is using geo-location. In traditional methods, the system wouldn’t care where you're logging in from. But with adaptive authentication, if someone tries to access the corporate network from a location that doesn't match their typical patterns, additional security measures kick in.

Another example is device recognition. Traditional methods don’t usually factor in what device you're using. However, adaptive authentication keeps track of the devices you commonly use. 

If a login attempt comes from a device you’ve never used before, it will raise a red flag. The system might then require you to answer security questions or authenticate through another trusted device.

Behavioral analysis also sets adaptive authentication apart. In a traditional setup, the system doesn’t care how fast you type your password or how you navigate through applications. But adaptive authentication systems analyze these behavioral traits. If you suddenly type much slower or make more mistakes, the system identifies this as unusual and may require further verification.

In essence, traditional methods are static and uniform, offering the same level of security regardless of the context. Adaptive authentication, on the other hand, is dynamic and context-aware, adjusting its security requirements based on real-time data. 

The flexibility of adaptive authentication makes it a much more robust option for securing corporate networks in today's diverse and ever-changing environments.

Contextual factors in adaptive authentication

Adaptive authentication hinges on the ability to evaluate multiple contextual factors in real-time. This dynamic approach ensures that each login attempt is scrutinized based on its unique circumstances, enhancing security while maintaining user convenience.

Location

Imagine you're logging in from your usual spot at home. The system recognizes this as a low-risk activity because it's a familiar geolocation based on your login history. 

However, if you suddenly try to access your account from a different city or country, the system will flag this as unusual. It might then require additional verification steps, like a one-time code sent to your phone, to ensure it's really you.

Device information

If you always use the same laptop to log into your corporate network, the system gets used to this specific device's characteristics, such as its IP address, browser type, or even its operating system. 

However, if a login attempt comes from a new or unrecognized device, this could trigger a higher security protocol. For instance, you might be asked to answer security questions or perform a biometric scan to authenticate your identity.

User behavior

Think about your usual login patterns, like the times you access your account and the actions you typically perform. If you usually log in during office hours and suddenly attempt to log in at 3 AM, the system will notice this deviation. It may then prompt you for an additional form of authentication, such as a fingerprint scan or a facial recognition check.

The beauty of adaptive authentication lies in its flexibility. By continuously monitoring these contextual factors and adapting its security measures accordingly, it minimizes friction for low-risk activities while ramping up defenses against potentially suspicious behaviors. 

This ensures that while legitimate users enjoy a seamless and convenient experience, any unusual activities are met with appropriate security checks to ward off unauthorized access.

Real-time decision making

Rather than a static system that only checks your username and password, adaptive authentication is smart and quick and makes decisions in real time. It continuously analyzes a trove of data to make split-second choices on what authentication method to use.

Even user behavior while logged in gets monitored in real-time. If you start downloading massive amounts of data all of a sudden, that’s a red flag. The system might intervene or at least alert the security team. It's continuously learning and adapting based on users’ actions and patterns.

In a nutshell, adaptive authentication is a vigilant, intelligent security tool that knows users well but isn't afraid to question unusual behavior. It’s not just about keeping the bad actors out; it’s about ensuring users can get their work done smoothly without compromising security.

How to integrate adaptive authentication with existing corporate systems and applications

Integrating adaptive authentication with existing corporate systems and applications can revolutionize how you manage security and user experience. 

However, before you integrate it into your corporate systems, you must understand the systems and applications that are critical to your business operations. That’s because adaptive authentication isn’t just about securing new applications—it's about fortifying your entire digital ecosystem, including legacy systems.

Imagine a scenario where employees access their emails, CRM systems, and cloud storage from various devices and locations. With adaptive authentication, you can ensure a dynamic security approach. 

Take your virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI), for example. Integrating adaptive authentication here means that you can monitor user behavior continuously. 

If an employee’s behavior deviates significantly from the norm—performing actions they normally don’t or aren’t authorized to—the system can immediately escalate the authentication requirements or even restrict certain activities. This might include disabling downloads or preventing copy-pasting within the virtual environment.

Cloud-based applications, such as SaaS solutions naturally designed for remote access fit perfectly with adaptive authentication. By assessing factors like device compliance and geolocation, you can tailor access controls. 

For instance, if a user tries to access a SaaS application from an unmanaged device, the system can enforce the use of a secure browser, ensuring that the corporate data remains protected even if the endpoint is not.

Integrating with Single Sign-On (SSO) systems is another powerful adaptive authentication use case. By combining SSO with adaptive auth, you can streamline the user experience while maintaining high security. 

Employees can access multiple applications with a single set of credentials, but the authentication strength adapts based on the context. For example, gaining access to a financial application may require additional steps compared to accessing a project management tool.

All these integrations require a robust risk engine that can continually evaluate user activities. This engine must analyze user roles, access times, device health, and more. 

Adaptive authentication integrates seamlessly with many corporate systems by providing a tailored security approach. It adapts its checks based on who the user is, where they are, and what they are trying to access. This adaptability provides you the flexibility to embrace remote work while ensuring your corporate data remains secure.