A workload identity is a specific type of machine identity or non-human identity that represents software-based entities such as applications, containers, microservices, APIs, and other computational components operating within an organization’s infrastructure. These identities are crucial for enabling secure authentication, authorization, and communication between workloads in dynamic environments, including hybrid and multicloud architectures.
Workload identities are typically used to manage access to resources, enforce policies, and establish trust among systems. They differ from device identities, as they are inherently tied to transient or ephemeral workloads that scale up or down based on operational demands. Proper governance of workload identities ensures secure integration with DevOps workflows, compliance with regulatory requirements, and the prevention of unauthorized access, making them a cornerstone of modern security strategies.
