Identity as a Service (IDaaS) refers to cloud-based identity and access management solutions that manage and secure user identities and access permissions. Essentially, it’s the SaaS (Software as a Service) version of identity and access management (IAM). 

Here are some key elements and benefits of IDaaS: 

1. Single Sign-On (SSO): Allows users to access multiple applications and services with a single set of credentials. This improves user experience and can reduce the number of password-related support requests. 

2. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Enhances security by requiring two or more verification methods, such as something the user knows (password), something the user has (a smart card or phone), or something the user is (biometric verification). 

3. User Provisioning and Deprovisioning: Automates the process of creating, updating, and deleting user accounts across different systems and applications, which streamlines user management and reduces administrative overhead. 

4. Directory Services: Provides centralized management and storage of user identity information. 

5. Access Management: Enables administrators to grant or deny user access to specific resources based on roles, groups, or attributes. 

6. Audit and Reporting: Offers capabilities to monitor and report on user activities, ensuring compliance with internal policies and external regulations. 

7. Scalability: As a cloud-based solution, IDaaS can be scaled up or down based on the organization’s needs, ensuring that the system can handle a growing number of users without significant infrastructure investments. 

8. Cost Savings: Since IDaaS is cloud-based, it often results in cost savings as organizations don’t need to invest in and maintain on-premises hardware and software. 

9. Security: Many IDaaS providers invest significantly in security, ensuring that user data is protected and that the latest security protocols and practices are in place. 

10. Integration: Many IDaaS solutions offer easy integration with other SaaS applications and enterprise systems, ensuring smooth interoperability. 

Popular IDaaS providers, as of my last training data in 2021, include Okta, Microsoft Azure Active Directory, Google Cloud Identity, and OneLogin, among others. When choosing an IDaaS solution, it’s essential to consider the specific needs of the organization, the solution’s integration capabilities, security features, and cost.