What are the best ways to become an IAM expert in cloud computing?

Becoming an IAM expert requires in-depth cloud knowledge combined with identity and access management fundamentals - it requires mastering core authentication, authorization and identity concepts. So... 1. Develop hands-on skills applying IAM controls on major cloud providers like AWS, Azure, IBM Cloud and GCP. 2. Learn to securely manage users, roles, groups and access policies at scale. Practice least privilege and separation of duties principles. 3. Actively monitor access - use analytics. 4. Stay current on emerging capabilities like privileged access management and GRC integration.

IAM in cloud computing involves managing user identities and access rights, ensuring authorized access, and providing granular control over permissions. It employs policies, processes, and tools for secure cloud resource utilization, involving federated identity, single sign-on, multi-factor authentication, and identity governance.

IAM is crucial for cloud computing due to its role in enhancing security, compliance, efficiency, productivity, scalability, and agility. It mitigates the risk of cyber threats, simplifies user access management, reduces complexity, and supports the dynamic nature of cloud resources, ensuring a secure, efficient, and flexible cloud environment.

Centralized management is key to maintaining a strong security posture. IAM streamlines the process of identity management and resource access.

In cloud computing, IAM involves users, groups, roles, policies, and resources. Users access services, while groups simplify access management for collections of users. Roles define permissions for user actions on cloud resources, and policies set conditions for access. These components ensure secure and efficient cloud access.

Not listed here is the use of groups rather than managing individual users. This is key to successful management of user access to resources.

IAM best practices in cloud computing include implementing the principle of least privilege, using centralized and standardized approaches, enabling multi-factor authentication, encrypting identity data, monitoring IAM activities, leveraging cloud provider tools, integrating with identity providers, applying access controls to data, utilizing logging and reporting tools, and conducting regular reviews and audits for compliance.

Platforms such as Udemy and Coursera are my personal favorites. If you are a seasoned professional, watch the videos at a higher playback speed and learn faster.

Learning and improving IAM skills in cloud computing involves enrolling in online courses and certifications, reading relevant materials, watching videos and webinars, practicing with hands-on labs and projects, joining online forums and communities, and participating in events. Resources are available from cloud providers (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud), educational platforms (Coursera, Udemy, Pluralsight), expert communities (Cloud Academy, Cloud Security Alliance), influencers (AWS Online Tech Talks, Azure Friday), dedicated platforms (AWS Hands-on Labs, Azure Learn), and IAM-focused groups (AWS IAM Forum, Azure IAM Community).

To become an IAM expert in cloud computing, start with foundational knowledge through online courses, certifications, and reading materials. Practice by working on hands-on labs, projects, and real-world scenarios. Engage with the cloud community, participate in forums, and attend events. Stay updated with evolving technologies, explore advanced topics, and pursue specialized certifications. Continuous learning, hands-on experience, and community engagement are key to mastering IAM in the dynamic cloud landscape.