Account management is a fundamental process within Identity & Access Management (IAM) that encompasses the complete lifecycle administration of user accounts across an organization's systems, networks, and applications. This includes the provisioning of new accounts, defining and modifying access permissions based on user roles, and the crucial de-provisioning of accounts when access is no longer required. The process operates on the principle of least privilege, ensuring users maintain only the access necessary for their specific responsibilities.

Effective account management serves as a vital security control by continuously monitoring account activity for anomalies and potential misuse while enforcing strict access control policies. It plays a critical role in mitigating risks associated with unauthorized access, insider threats, and credential-based attacks. Beyond security, proper account management facilitates comprehensive audit trails essential for regulatory compliance, safeguards sensitive data and critical infrastructure, and maintains the overall integrity of an organization's security posture.