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NIST SP 800-63 Digital Identity Guidelines

Paul Grassi

referenceComplianceIAMAuthentication

NIST SP 800-63 Digital Identity Guidelines

Revision 4

by Paul Grassi, James Fenton, Elaine Newton, Ray Perlner, Andrew Regenscheid

4.7/5
National Institute of Standards and Technology
2024
120 pages

Summary

The NIST SP 800-63 Digital Identity Guidelines provide technical requirements for federal agencies implementing digital identity services. Revision 4 covers identity proofing (800-63A), authentication and lifecycle management (800-63B), and federation and assertions (800-63C). It defines Identity Assurance Levels (IAL), Authenticator Assurance Levels (AAL), and Federation Assurance Levels (FAL).

Why Read This Book

The gold standard reference for digital identity. Even if you are not in the federal sector, NIST 800-63 shapes industry best practices and is widely referenced in enterprise IAM programs, compliance frameworks, and vendor evaluations.

Key Takeaways

  • Identity Assurance Levels (IAL) and identity proofing requirements
  • Authenticator Assurance Levels (AAL) and authenticator types
  • Federation Assurance Levels (FAL) and assertion requirements
  • Phishing-resistant authentication requirements
  • Updated guidance on passwordless and passkey authentication

Who Should Read This

Anyone involved in identity architecture, compliance, or security policy who needs authoritative guidance on digital identity assurance levels.

Compliance OfficersSecurity ArchitectsGovernment IT Professionals

Frequently Asked Questions

What is "NIST SP 800-63 Digital Identity Guidelines" about?

The NIST SP 800-63 Digital Identity Guidelines provide technical requirements for federal agencies implementing digital identity services. Revision 4 covers identity proofing (800-63A), authentication and lifecycle management (800-63B), and federation and assertions (800-63C). It defines Identity Assurance Levels (IAL), Authenticator Assurance Levels (AAL), and Federation Assurance Levels (FAL).

Who should read "NIST SP 800-63 Digital Identity Guidelines"?

Anyone involved in identity architecture, compliance, or security policy who needs authoritative guidance on digital identity assurance levels.

What are the key takeaways from "NIST SP 800-63 Digital Identity Guidelines"?

Key takeaways include: Identity Assurance Levels (IAL) and identity proofing requirements; Authenticator Assurance Levels (AAL) and authenticator types; Federation Assurance Levels (FAL) and assertion requirements.

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