Chief information officers, directors, and other security leaders must walk a fine line between protecting data and ensuring authorized users have seamless access to tools and services. Their Identity and authentication strategies are responsible for proactively mitigating and remediating threats in a way that protects users’ trust. However, security leaders must also work with development, technology, and product teams so that Identity and authentication strategies improve — rather than hinder — user experience and innovation. By optimizing digital Identity management, including authentication, security leaders can build resilient organizations and deliver differentiating digital experiences that drive a competitive advantage. Why organizations are shifting to Identity-first security approaches Traditionally, organizations prioritized investments in network-based security solutions to protect data. As a result, individual teams often implemented their own siloed Identity repositories to meet their unique requirements. However, this approach has resulted in Identity sprawl and inconsistent policies that create even more risk.