How does a cloud access security broker function?

While some CASB functions might overlap with identity management, its primary role extends beyond just authentication brokering, focusing on security policy enforcement and visibility across multiple cloud applications.

CASBs operate by integrating with cloud applications and services using APIs, or by acting as a proxy, to gain visibility and control over data and user activity. They continuously monitor for compliance, data loss prevention, threat protection, and access control, creating incidents when policies are violated or suspicious activity is detected within the cloud solutions.

A CASB is not a SIEM solution; rather, it often feeds its findings and alerts *into* a SIEM for correlation and broader security analysis.

While some CASB features might identify misconfigurations that lead to vulnerabilities, its core function is broader, focusing on monitoring activity, enforcing policy, and protecting data in the cloud, rather than simply vulnerability scanning cloud solutions.