What is a third-party entity that provides independent identity and access management (IAM) services to cloud service providers and customers?

A third-party entity that provides independent identity and access management (IAM) services to cloud service providers and customers is referred to as a Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB). CASBs serve as intermediaries between cloud service providers and users, enabling organizations to enforce security policies while accessing cloud-based resources. They offer various IAM functionalities, such as single sign-on (SSO), multifactor authentication, and user provisioning, which help secure access to cloud applications.

By implementing IAM services through a CASB, organizations can gain greater control over user identities and access levels, ensuring that only authorized users can access sensitive information. This is vital in today's cloud-centric environment, where data is often distributed across multiple cloud services.

Other roles mentioned, such as Cloud Service Providers, primarily offer the infrastructure and platforms that individuals or other businesses utilize, while Cloud Administrators manage accounts and handle operational tasks within these environments. Cloud Security Management encompasses broader security practices and strategies rather than focusing specifically on IAM services.