Book Image

Okta Administration Up and Running - Second Edition

By : HenkJan de Vries, Lovisa Stenbäcken Stjernlöf
Book Image

Okta Administration Up and Running - Second Edition

By: HenkJan de Vries, Lovisa Stenbäcken Stjernlöf

Overview of this book

Identity and access management (IAM) is a set of policies and technologies used to ensure an organization’s security, by carefully assigning roles and access to users and devices. This book will get you up and running with Okta, an IAM service that can help you manage both employees and customers. The book begins by helping you understand how Okta can be used as an IAM platform, before teaching you about Universal Directory and how to integrate with other directories and apps, as well as set up groups and policies for Joiner, Mover, and Leaver flows. This updated edition helps you to explore agentless desktop single sign-on (SSO) and multifactor authentication (MFA) solutions, and showing how to utilize Okta to meet NIST requirements. The chapters also walk you through Okta Workflows, low-/no-code automation functionalities, and custom API possibilities used to improve lifecycle management. Finally, you’ll delve into API access auditing and management, where you’ll discover how to leverage Advanced Server Access (ASA) for your cloud servers. By the end of this book, you’ll have learned how to implement Okta to enhance your organization's security and be able to use the book as a reference guide for the Okta certification exam.
Table of Contents (14 chapters)
1
Part 1:Getting Started with Okta
8
Part 2: Extending Okta

What this book covers

Chapter 1, IAM and Okta, dives into the foundational principles of IAM, where you’ll uncover why it’s the bedrock of modern IT and security, ensuring the safeguarding of digital assets and seamless user access. But that’s just the beginning. We’ll unravel Okta’s intriguing origin story, tracing its evolution into a powerhouse of IAM solutions. What truly sets this chapter apart is the compelling exploration of Okta’s array of base and advanced products. Discover how these tools can revolutionize your organization’s identity management, authentication, and access control.

Chapter 2, Working with Universal Directory, delves into the core of Okta’s directory functionality. This chapter is your gateway to connecting your infrastructure seamlessly through directory integrations, efficiently managing user identities, and ensuring secure access. You’ll master the art of importing and creating users, optimize productivity with groups, bolster security by managing devices, and even extend user profiles to tailor them to your unique needs. Get ready to unlock the secrets of Okta’s Universal Directory and elevate your identity management game.

Chapter 3, Using Single Sign-On for a Great End User Experience, is your gateway to unleashing the full potential of Okta’s Single Sign-On (SSO) functionality. Get ready to discover how to use SSO seamlessly with Okta, utilize the convenience of FastPass for easy sign-on, and navigate the Okta dashboard with finesse. We’ll also delve into the agentless Desktop SSO setup, explore the Okta Integration Network, harness the power of Secure Web Authentication and Security Assertion Markup Language (SAML)/OpenID Connect applications, and master the art of managing inbound SSO and identity provider (IdP) discovery. Your journey to a superior end user experience begins here!

Chapter 4, Increasing Security with Adaptive Multifactor Authentication, prepares you to uncover the depths of Okta’s Multifactor Authentication (MFA) capabilities. In this chapter, we’ll explore diverse factor types, authenticators, and enrollment methods. Discover the power of contextual access management and the art of enrolling end users seamlessly in MFA. Dive into the world of heightened security and user authentication as we delve deep into the heart of Okta’s MFA functionality. Your journey to fortified security begins here – get ready to unlock the secrets of adaptive MFA!

Chapter 5, Automating Using Lifecycle Management, dives deep into the world of user provisioning automation, enabling you to streamline and enhance your identity management processes. Discover how to effortlessly automate user provisioning, create rich user profiles, and establish group rules for efficient management. We’ll also explore the setup of self-service options, putting control in the hands of your users. Join us on this journey to harness the power of automation and make identity management a breeze.

Chapter 6, Customizing Your Okta GUI, delves into the realm of personalized user experiences. This chapter explores the fundamental aspects of end-user functionality and customization. Gain insights into configuring the user dashboard and fine-tuning Okta plugin settings. We’ll also navigate the intricacies of custom domain setup and the creation of bespoke pages, enabling you to mold Okta to suit your unique requirements. This chapter offers a gateway to a world of tailored solutions and heightened user engagement through Okta’s customizable features. Let’s dive in and uncover the limitless possibilities of customization.

Chapter 7, Okta Workflows, steps into the world of Okta Workflows within Okta administration, where innovation meets efficiency. This chapter uncovers the power of Okta Workflows – a transformative tool designed to simplify complex processes. Explore its versatility in integrating applications and functions seamlessly. Learn how to safeguard your workflows with export backups, and delve into the realm of delegated admin workflows. In this chapter, we’ll unveil the capabilities of Okta Workflows, opening doors to enhanced automation and process optimization. Get ready to unlock the potential of this dynamic feature, revolutionizing the way you manage identity and access.

Chapter 8, API Access Management, demystifies API terminology and explores the ins and outs of managing Okta with APIs. Get ready to dive into the fundamentals of API access management, empowering you to safeguard your digital assets. Plus, we’ll delve into the nitty-gritty of API administration, ensuring you have the tools and knowledge to master this vital aspect of identity and access management. Let’s unravel the secrets of effective API access control together!

Chapter 9, Managing Access with Advanced Server Access, provides you with a comprehensive understanding of Advanced Server Access (ASA). We’ll explore the setup of ASA, empowering you to configure it effectively. Dive into the world of managing your ASA environment, and discover how automation can elevate your access management game. This chapter is your key to mastering advanced access control with Okta, opening doors to heightened security and streamlined operations.