What does a Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB) primarily provide?

A Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB) primarily serves as an intermediary between an organization's on-premises infrastructure and cloud services to enforce security policies and provide visibility into cloud application usage. One of the core functions of a CASB is identity and access management, which includes the ability to authenticate users, enforce access controls, and ensure secure user interactions with cloud applications. By integrating with various identity providers and authentication mechanisms, a CASB can ensure that only authorized individuals have access to sensitive cloud data and resources.

This function is crucial for organizations to maintain compliance with regulatory requirements and internal security policies, as it helps mitigate risks associated with unauthorized access. The ability to manage user identities and their access rights in the cloud environment is what primarily distinguishes a CASB's role in facilitating secure cloud adoption and data protection.