Just-in-Time (JIT) Access is a security control that grants users temporary, time-limited access to systems, applications, or assets only when needed and automatically revokes that access once the session or task is complete. Instead of providing standing privileges, JIT Access dynamically provisions access based on request workflows, policy triggers, or scheduled tasks. It reduces the attack surface by minimizing the duration and scope of access, and it is often used in conjunction with multi-factor authentication (MFA), role-based access control (RBAC), and credential injection.
Permanent or “always-on” privileged access presents a serious security risk, especially in environments where critical systems are managed by internal staff, contractors, or remote vendors. If a user account is compromised and retains standing privileges, it can be exploited to cause widespread damage, including lateral movement, data exfiltration, or OT system tampering.
JIT Access enforces least privilege by default. By ensuring access is granted only when necessary, it limits exposure and greatly reduces the window of opportunity for attackers. In critical infrastructure environments, where every access request could impact uptime, safety, or compliance, JIT Access provides a safeguard against insider threats, misused credentials, and misconfigured accounts.
JIT Access is also referenced in modern zero trust architecture models and is increasingly required by cybersecurity frameworks such as IEC 62443, NERC CIP, NIS2, and TSA SD02E for privileged access management.
If the jump box is compromised, it may serve as a pivot point for lateral movement.
Many jump servers still expose credentials to users, increasing the risk of credential theft.
Their reliance on VPNs and agents makes them difficult to deploy, scale, and secure, especially in OT, ICS, or air-gapped environments
Xona natively supports Just-in-Time Access through its Time-Based Access Control (TBAC) engine, which enforces strict, time-limited access policies tied to identity, role, and scheduled windows. Access can be automatically provisioned based on approved access requests or shift schedules and is revoked as soon as the access window ends; no manual intervention required.
In addition, Xona’s credential injection ensures users never handle passwords, and multi-factor authentication adds a second layer of control before access is granted. All sessions are proxied, isolated, and fully recorded, with real-time monitoring available for high-risk operations or moderated access scenarios.
Because Xona operates as a disconnected access layer, JIT access is enforced without requiring persistent VPNs, jump servers, or direct network connections to critical infrastructure. This ensures that users get exactly the access they need, no more, no less, with full auditability and compliance alignment.