Protecting Credentials in SAP HANA: The Client Secure User Store

SecureAuth’s technology team sheds light on the tools and mechanisms available to better use and protect credentials in SAP HANA environments. After exploring the network protocol used to connect to HANA databases, we take a deep dive into how the HANA client stores connection information, and more importantly, accesses credentials.

Protecting credentials in SAP HANA is crucial to maintaining the security and integrity of your enterprise data. SAP HANA, known for its high-performance capabilities, requires robust security measures to protect sensitive information. Here are key strategies to ensure your credentials are safeguarded:

1. Implement Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Multi-Factor Authentication adds an additional layer of security by requiring two or more verification methods. SecureAuth offers over 30 phishing-resistant MFA options, including Passkeys, YubiKey, and Symbol to Accept, which significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access. 

2. Utilize Continuous and Adaptive Authentication

Continuous authentication involves regularly verifying user identity throughout a session, rather than only at login. This method, combined with adaptive authentication, assesses the risk associated with each access attempt and adjusts the security requirements accordingly. SecureAuth’s  platform leverages AI and machine learning to analyze user behavior, device health, and contextual data, ensuring a seamless yet secure user experience.

3. Secure User Store

SAP HANA’s client secure user store (hdbuserstore) helps manage database credentials securely. Regularly update and rotate these credentials to prevent unauthorized access. Integrate your HANA environment with SecureAuth’s solutions to enhance security further, providing a unified and secure authentication mechanism across your systems.

4. Implement Risk-Based Authentication

Risk-based authentication assigns a risk score to each authentication attempt, prompting additional verification steps when necessary. This method helps balance security with user convenience by only challenging users when suspicious activity is detected. SecureAuth’s Risk Engine continuously evaluates the risk, ensuring that high-risk attempts are thoroughly vetted.

5. Passwordless Authentication

Eliminating passwords reduces the risk associated with password-based attacks. SecureAuth provides passwordless authentication options, such as biometric verification and device-based authentication, which enhance security and streamline user access

6. Comprehensive Access Management

SecureAuth offers a holistic approach to identity and access management (IAM), ensuring that only authorized users can access sensitive data and applications. Features like Single Sign-On (SSO), device trust, and identity orchestration help manage user identities across diverse environments, enhancing security while simplifying administration.

Next Steps

To learn more about how SecureAuth can help protect your SAP HANA credentials and provide the best identity management capabilities, contact SecureAuth today. Our advanced authentication solutions can help you secure your enterprise data without compromising on user experience.