Achieving Least Privilege with AI-Powered Just-in-Time (JIT) Access

Read full article here: https://www.andromedasecurity.com/blogs/how-to-automate-jit-access-for-high-security-and-improved-productivity/?source=nhimg

The principle of least privilege remains one of the most effective identity security controls, but implementing it in modern cloud environments is challenging. Overly strict controls frustrate users, while overly loose permissions create an expanded attack surface through standing privileges. The rise of Just-in-Time (JIT) access offers a way to reduce risk without sacrificing productivity but only if implemented intelligently.

The Problem with Standing Privileges

Cloud and SaaS adoption has multiplied the number of permissions per identity. Leaving privileges permanently enabled increases breach impact when an account, human or Non-Human Identity (NHI) is compromised. Organizations need a way to provision only the access required, only when needed, without slowing operations.

The JIT Evolution

1. Manual JIT – Traditional approval workflows improve security but introduce delays of hours or days. Frustrated developers bypass the process, and rubber-stamped approvals undermine risk control.

2. Rule-Based Automated JIT – Predefined rules speed approvals but rely on static attributes like job role or time of request. They fail to detect dynamic risks such as account compromise, location anomalies, or behavioral deviations.

3. Dynamic, AI-Powered JIT – The next generation of JIT leverages behavioral baselines and real-time risk analysis. AI models assess request context—usage patterns, device, location, and compliance history before granting access. Low-risk requests are auto-approved; anomalies trigger manual review with full context.

Why AI-Driven Dynamic JIT Wins

• Balances security & productivity by enforcing least privilege without blocking legitimate workflows.

• Prevents privilege abuse by continuously validating context, detecting compromised accounts early.

• Reduces operational friction by auto-approving safe, routine access requests while adding “good friction” only when needed.

Andromeda’s AI-Powered JIT Solution

• Unified workflows for both temporary and permanent access requests.

• AI-driven auto-approvals or routed manual reviews with full risk, usage, and behavior context.

• Automated provisioning and deprovisioning to enforce zero standing privilege.

• Natural language summaries of privileged session activity for audit and compliance.

Bottom Line

Dynamic JIT access transforms least privilege from a security ideal into an operational reality. By removing high-risk standing privileges and evaluating every request in real-time context, organizations can shrink their attack surface, maintain developer velocity, and ensure that even compromised identities cannot cause a breach.