What is SCIM and how does it relate to user provisioning?

• A. System for Cross-domain Identity Management standard for provisioning/deprovisioning user accounts between directories and apps.
• B. A protocol for password exchange.
• C. A network encryption standard.
• D. A tool for password reset.

Answer: (A)

SCIM stands for System for Cross-domain Identity Management. It’s a standard that defines a consistent, machine-readable way to exchange user identity information between an identity provider (like a company directory) and service providers (apps and SaaS). It provides a common data model for user attributes and a RESTful API to create, update, search, and delete user accounts, enabling automated provisioning and deprovisioning across systems. In practice, when someone joins, moves, or leaves the organization, SCIM allows their accounts to be automatically created, updated, or removed in connected apps, keeping access in sync and reducing manual work. It’s about provisioning and lifecycle management, not password exchange, encryption, or password resets.