Glossary: Passwords, Automation and AI in Security Operations

service account

Also written: service accounts, svc-backup

An account used by a program rather than a person, such as svc-backup for the backup software. Its password should be rotated on a schedule, and automations should run under one with only the rights they need.

Where the book teaches it

Chapter 1: Watching Passwords: Breaches, Audits and Reports
Chapter 3: Automating Safely: Guardrails, Logic, Process and Complexity
Chapter 4: Cost, Risk and Rollout of Automation

Related terms

least privilege account auditing secrets vault