In my years writing about cybersecurity, I’ve discovered one common fact: nobody wakes up enthusiastic about id and entry administration (IAM), however everybody regrets ignoring it.
Between staff reusing weak passwords, phishing makes an attempt concentrating on credentials, and the rising internet of SaaS functions, maintaining accounts safe with out irritating customers is simpler mentioned than performed.
Throw in distant work, third-party integrations, and compliance audits into the combination, and it’s no shock that IAM looks like an countless sport of catch-up. The problem isn’t nearly safety—it’s about discovering the fitting IAM software that really works with out including complexity to every day operations.
In case you’re a safety chief, IT supervisor, or enterprise decision-maker, discovering the finest id and entry administration software program on your group can really feel overwhelming. With so many choices promising hermetic safety and seamless integration, how have you learnt which one actually delivers?
I’ve performed all this analysis, so that you don’t should. I spoke with IAM specialists, reviewed G2 stories, and gathered insights from my very own IT and safety workforce (who’ve seen sufficient unhealthy IAM setups to final a lifetime). After evaluating 15 main IAM options, I’ve narrowed it right down to the highest 5 that really stand out—for safety, scalability, and usefulness.
5 finest id and entry administration software program: My Prime Picks
- Microsoft Entra ID for organizations already in Microsoft ecosystem.($6/consumer/month)
- JumpCloud for managing identities throughout multi-OS environments with built-in cellular machine administration.($9/consumer/month)
- Okta for enterprise-grade authentication with easy third-party integrations.($2/consumer/month for SSO)
- Salesforce Platform for companies working on Salesforce that want built-in id administration. ($5/consumer/month)
- Cisco Duo for easy-to-use and powerful multi-factor authentication. ($3/consumer/month)
*These are the top-rated merchandise within the IAM software program class, in line with G2 Grid Stories. I’ve talked about the beginning value of their paid plans for simple comparability.
Whether or not you’re upgrading your IAM technique or selecting an answer for the primary time, this information will enable you discover the very best match on your group.
5 finest id and entry administration software program I like to recommend
I’ve seen firsthand how essential id and entry administration software program is for companies. With out it, managing consumer entry is like handing out keys to an workplace and shedding monitor of who has them or the place they’re getting used.
IAM software program is what retains that chaos in verify. It controls who will get entry to what, when, and the way securely, so IT groups can implement safety insurance policies, forestall unauthorized entry, and cut back danger with out turning each login try right into a assist ticket.
I’ve seen my fair proportion of IAM software program in all sizes and shapes, from cloud-focused ones to on-premises options and from extremely customizable methods for big enterprises to easy choices for rising groups.
From my analysis and conversations with IAM specialists, I’ve realized that the very best IAM software program isn’t nearly safety. It is concerning the stability between safe consumer authentication, granular entry controls for imposing the least privilege, and clean integration with current methods.
How did I discover and consider the very best IAM software program?
Discovering the very best IAM software program isn’t nearly evaluating function lists or vendor guarantees—safety leaders want options that really work in the actual world. I began by analyzing G2 Grid stories, which rank IAM instruments primarily based on real-world adoption, consumer satisfaction, and enterprise match. This gave me a transparent view of which platforms dominate the area and the way they carry out in areas like authentication, entry management, and compliance.
To transcend rankings, I used AI to research to research a whole bunch of consumer evaluations of those merchandise. This helped me establish recurring themes—whether or not it was frustration over clunky authentication flows, reward for adaptive entry insurance policies, or issues about integration with current safety stacks.
I additionally spoke with IAM specialists, my very own IT and safety workforce members, and professionals who cope with id safety every day. Their suggestions helped me lower by means of the noise and deal with options that ship sturdy safety with out changing into a bottleneck for IT operations. The screenshots featured on this article could also be a mixture of these captured throughout testing and ones obtained from the seller’s G2 web page.
What makes the very best id and entry administration software program: My standards
Primarily based on every thing I’ve discovered, right here’s the guidelines I used to guage the highest IAM answer:
- Sturdy authentication with out friction: Authentication needs to be sturdy, nevertheless it shouldn’t create pointless complications. If logging in looks like a chore, customers will take shortcuts—reusing passwords, writing them down, or bypassing safety altogether. I appeared for IAM options that provide multi-factor authentication (MFA) past the fundamentals, with choices like biometric verification, passwordless login, and adaptive authentication that adjusts safety necessities primarily based on danger. Single sign-on (SSO) was one other massive issue because it reduces login fatigue whereas sustaining safety. Danger-based authentication additionally stood out—options that analyze habits, location, and machine to set off extra safety when wanted scored larger on my checklist.
- Granular entry controls and role-based administration: It’s not nearly who can log in—it’s about what they will entry as soon as inside. IAM options that provide sturdy role-based entry management (RBAC) made the lower, permitting IT groups to handle permissions at scale with out manually adjusting each consumer’s entry. I additionally checked out instruments with attribute-based entry management (ABAC), which considers context like machine sort, location, and login habits to make smarter entry selections. Simply-in-time entry was one other function that stood out, limiting high-privilege entry solely when it’s completely needed, decreasing long-term publicity to delicate methods.
- Integration with current safety infrastructure: An IAM system isn’t helpful if it doesn’t match into the broader safety ecosystem. I prioritized options that combine easily with id suppliers like Energetic Listing and Azure AD, in addition to SIEM platforms for real-time authentication monitoring. IAM also needs to join with HR and ITSM methods for automated provisioning and de-provisioning of accounts—as a result of guide account administration is a recipe for errors and safety gaps.
- Compliance and audit-readiness: For organizations coping with strict rules, IAM isn’t only a safety software—it’s a compliance requirement. I targeted on options that provide built-in audit logs, detailed compliance reporting, and governance options like entry evaluations and certification workflows. Assembly business requirements like SOC 2, ISO 27001, HIPAA, and GDPR was one other main issue. Safety leaders want IAM instruments that don’t simply assist them safe identities but in addition make compliance audits much less of a nightmare.
- Scalability and suppleness for rising organizations: A very good IAM answer ought to develop with the enterprise, not maintain it again. I evaluated how effectively these instruments assist hybrid IT environments and whether or not they supply multi-tenant assist for enterprises managing a number of subsidiaries or divisions. API-driven customization was one other key issue—organizations want IAM methods that enable them to automate workflows and combine with different safety instruments as a substitute of forcing a inflexible, one-size-fits-all strategy.
- Person expertise: IAM safety solely works if individuals really use it. I appeared for IAM options that provide clear, intuitive admin dashboards that IT groups can navigate with out intensive coaching. Self-service password reset was one other main issue—IT groups don’t have time to always unlock accounts simply because somebody forgot a password. The perfect options cut back friction whereas nonetheless imposing sturdy safety insurance policies.
I wished to guage IAM options from a security-first perspective whereas additionally contemplating how IT groups and staff work together with them every day. After checking every software towards this guidelines and cross-referencing it with skilled insights, real-world suggestions, and AI-driven assessment evaluation, I recognized the highest 5 IAM options.
The checklist beneath incorporates real consumer evaluations from the IAM software program class. To be included on this class, an answer should:
- Provision and de-provision of consumer identities.
- Assign entry primarily based on particular person function, group membership, and different elements.
- Implement consumer entry rights primarily based on permissions.
- Confirm consumer id with authentication, which can embrace multi-factor authentication strategies.
- Combine with directories that home worker knowledge.
*This knowledge was pulled from G2 in 2025. Some evaluations might have been edited for readability.
1. Microsoft Entra ID
In relation to IAM options, Microsoft Entra ID (previously Azure Energetic Listing) is usually one of many first identify that comes up—and for good cause. It’s deeply built-in into the Microsoft ecosystem.
And right here’s what makes it much more interesting in my view. If an organization is already utilizing Microsoft providers like Azure, Dynamics 365, Intune, or Energy Platform, Entra ID comes included at no cost. Meaning there’s built-in assist for MFA, limitless SSO throughout SaaS apps, primary reporting, and self-service password modifications for cloud customers with none further value. For companies already within the Microsoft ecosystem, this can be a big benefit.
From my analysis and conversations with IT professionals, Entra ID stands out for its sturdy authentication, highly effective safety controls, and versatile conditional entry insurance policies. Mix it additional with Intune, Microsoft’s cloud-based endpoint administration answer, we get a strong system for unified entry management and endpoint administration.
Certainly one of its greatest strengths is conditional entry in my view. IT groups love the power to implement safety insurance policies primarily based on consumer habits, location, and danger stage. This implies customers logging in from an unknown machine may be prompted for MFA, whereas trusted customers on managed gadgets can entry assets with out pointless friction. It’s a sensible strategy that balances safety with usability.
I additionally discovered that we may join on-premise Energetic Listing with Entra ID utilizing Entra Join and simplify entry administration throughout cloud and on-premise. I feel that is significantly helpful for organizations transitioning to the cloud however nonetheless sustaining on-premises infrastructure.
However that mentioned, there are some drawbacks too. One of many greatest challenges I’ve come throughout with Microsoft Entra ID is the setup and configuration course of. In case you’re already working a Microsoft-heavy surroundings, issues are likely to fall into place extra easily. However for corporations with a blended IT infrastructure or these transitioning from a non-Microsoft setup, getting every thing correctly configured can take time.
Licensing prices are one other factor that stood out to me. Entra ID does include a free tier in the event you’re already utilizing Microsoft providers, however the extra superior safety features underneath id safety, governance, and privileged entry administration are solely accessible in higher-tier licenses like Entra ID P2 or the Suite. That’s the place issues get difficult in my view.
For smaller organizations that really want these options however don’t have the price range for premium licensing, it may be a tricky name. In case you’re in search of a fully-featured IAM answer with out spending further, you actually should dig into which Entra ID tier matches your safety and compliance wants.
Regardless of these cons, Microsoft Entra ID is a stable IAM to think about, particularly in case you are already within the Microsoft ecosystem and are cloud-native.
What I like about Microsoft Entra ID:
- I really like how seamlessly Entra ID integrates with Azure, Workplace 365, and the remainder of the Microsoft ecosystem. There’s no fuss—every thing simply connects the best way it ought to, from SSO to conditional entry insurance policies.
- Managing hybrid identities can be an enormous win. With Entra Join, I can sync on-prem Energetic Listing with the cloud, and on-prem writeback makes life a lot simpler for companies that aren’t absolutely cloud-native but.
What G2 customers like about Microsoft Entra ID:
“Microsoft Entra is among the finest options Microsoft provides for verifying and figuring out enterprise expertise belongings reminiscent of laptops and cellphones. It ensures that solely the fitting individuals have entry to particular assets.
What I like essentially the most are these three options: multi-factor authentication with the Microsoft Authenticator app, id administration for every machine, and its integration with BitLocker, which offers full disk encryption for the asset. This manner, knowledge is securely saved and could be recovered with a BitLocker restoration key.”
– Microsoft Entra ID Overview, Erick Vincent Steve G.
What I dislike about Microsoft Entra ID:
- From what I noticed, organising Entra ID isn’t precisely a clean trip. In case you’re not already locked into Microsoft’s ecosystem, anticipate some further effort and time to get every thing configured correctly.
- Primarily based on my analysis, licensing value is one other ache level. Whereas the free tier covers the fundamentals, a few of the options that safety groups really need are locked behind Entra ID P2, which isn’t low-cost.
What G2 customers dislike about Microsoft Entra ID:
“Customers who will not be aware of Microsoft merchandise will face difficulties in understanding the mixing of this product, and the identical goes for corporations utilizing non-Microsoft platforms. The price of implementing Microsoft Entra ID may very well be a priority for low-budget corporations together with this, the businesses that pose challenges in environments with unstable web entry can face issues as a result of Entra ID is cloud-based.”
– Microsoft Entra ID Overview, Sahil C.
2. JumpCloud
JumpCloud stands out to me as a versatile, cloud-first IAM answer that’s designed for organizations that wish to transfer past conventional on-prem id administration.
What I like about it’s that JumpCloud follows an open listing strategy which offers the liberty to handle identities throughout Home windows, Android, iOS, macOS, and Linux—all from one platform. It doesn’t simply work with Azure or Energetic Listing—it additionally integrates seamlessly with Google Workspace, AWS, and third-party SaaS apps. That makes it a robust selection for multi-cloud and hybrid setups.
I additionally like that JumpCloud combines IAM with cellular machine administration (MDM), listing providers, and endpoint safety right into a single platform. Managing customers, gadgets, and safety insurance policies from one place makes life simpler, particularly for IT groups juggling a number of working methods.
From a usability standpoint, JumpCloud positively will get my reward for its clear and user-friendly interface. Onboarding new customers is straightforward, and SSO and MFA are simple to deploy throughout a company.
One other factor I’ve discovered is that JumpCloud has an intensive information base with step-by-step tutorials and movies. This makes it simple to arrange and implement safety insurance policies. And if one thing does go improper, buyer assist has a stable popularity.
Nonetheless, there are some things that may be improved. From what I noticed, some options are lacking, like self-service for account unlocks, which suggests IT groups should step in each time a consumer will get locked out. There’s additionally room for enchancment in current options like distant help, which is a bit clunky to work with.
Additionally, from my perspective, JumpCloud does supply MDM, however in the event you’re managing a big fleet of gadgets, particularly in Apple-heavy environments, it won’t have the identical stage of granular management and automation that Jamf or different MDM offers.
That mentioned, I might say JumpCloud’s energy lies in its unified strategy of integrating IAM, listing providers, and MDM right into a single platform. In case you’re in search of an all-in-one answer slightly than a standalone enterprise-grade possibility of IAM and MDM, Jumpcloud remains to be a stable selection, particularly for small and medium companies, even at a better value level.
What I like about JumpCloud:
- In contrast to Microsoft Entra ID, which is best optimized for the Microsoft ecosystem, JumpCloud offers me the liberty to handle identities throughout Home windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS—all from a single platform.
- I like that JumpCloud isn’t simply an IAM answer—it additionally contains cellular machine administration (MDM), listing providers, and endpoint safety.
What G2 customers like about JumpCloud:
“JumpCloud could be very simple to make use of and user-friendly. It helped us handle our staff’ methods. We are able to now handle software program utility installations on these methods by way of a function in JumpCloud, Software program Administration, which is kind of useful.
Additionally, it is extremely simple to use any insurance policies by way of JumpCloud to end-user methods, reminiscent of password coverage, MFA for logging into the system, and so on. Additionally, listing integration could be very simple to arrange, reminiscent of AD, Cloud, or HR directories. With this, we will additionally run instructions on distant methods and take distant help/management of the system, which could be very helpful. And the shopper assist is all the time there for you, and they’re fairly quick in responding.”
– Jumpcloud Overview, Saurabh R.
What I dislike about JumpCloud:
- From my remark, some options are nonetheless lacking. For instance, I discovered it lacks self-service account unlocks. Each time a consumer will get locked out, IT has to step in, which feels pointless when different IAM options supply self-service choices.
- I additionally suppose sure options want enchancment. For example, distant Help feels clunky, and whereas MDM works, it doesn’t supply the identical granular management and automation as devoted instruments like Jamf.
What G2 customers dislike about JumpCloud:
“Jumpcloud has but to develop superior options like self-service for Account unlocks, Person orchestration, and governance capabilities, that are needed on this period of enterprise safety administration.“
– Jumpcloud Overview, Gangadhara S.
3. Okta
From my expertise, Okta is among the most versatile and scalable IAM options, particularly for organizations that want sturdy safety, seamless integrations, and superior authentication controls. Okta can be vendor-neutral—similar to JumpCloud, and I’ve discovered it to be an awesome match for corporations managing multi-cloud environments or dealing with a fancy mixture of SaaS functions that require deep integration and automation.
One factor that actually impressed me is how effectively Okta integrates with different instruments. Whether or not you’re working Microsoft, Google Workspace, AWS, or managing a lot of SaaS functions, Okta handles SSO, adaptive authentication, and automatic consumer provisioning effortlessly.
One other space the place Okta shines is consumer expertise. The interface is a breeze to work with for each IT groups and finish customers, and from what I’ve seen, it provides one of many smoothest SSO experiences on the market.
Whereas it has Okta Confirm as a stable built-in possibility for MFA, I discover it invaluable that it additionally helps third-party MFA and token suppliers, giving corporations the liberty to combine what works finest for them. I additionally like that Okta provides a user-customized SSO portal. It’s clean and environment friendly and makes managing a number of apps a lot simpler.
Now, there are some downsides. Whereas Okta is filled with enterprise-grade safety and IAM options, I’ve seen that pricing is usually a hurdle for smaller companies and startups. Okta provides a la carte pricing, so corporations can decide and select the options they want. For small companies and startups, these prices can add up, particularly when a number of providers are wanted.
Whereas Okta is highly effective, getting it absolutely arrange isn’t simple. There are a lot of settings, insurance policies, and integrations that want cautious configuration, and the preliminary setup can really feel overwhelming, primarily based on my observations. Undoubtedly, Okta provides good documentation and assist, nevertheless it nonetheless takes effort and time to fine-tune every thing for safety, entry controls, and automation. However as soon as it’s up and working, it’s extremely efficient.
What I like about Okta:
- I extremely worth that Okta seamlessly integrates with every thing, whether or not you’re managing Microsoft, Google Workspace, AWS, or a ton of SaaS apps. It makes SSO, adaptive authentication, and automatic consumer provisioning easy.
- I like that I can customise SSO insurance policies and blend them with totally different MFA choices, together with Okta Confirm or third-party suppliers like Symantec VIP, Duo Safety and Google Authenticator. It offers me the management I must stability safety with usability.
What G2 customers like about Okta:
“Over time, I’ve labored with Okta throughout varied corporations, and I have to say that it’s truthfully the most effective SSO options in the marketplace. Not solely is it user-friendly with a contemporary interface, nevertheless it additionally boasts excessive safety requirements and helps working with 1000’s of customers concurrently.”
– Okta Overview, Paloma G.
What I dislike about Okta:
- From what I noticed, the setup isn’t precisely fast. Okta is highly effective, however getting every thing configured takes time. There are lots of settings to fine-tune, and the training curve can really feel steep in the event you’re new to IAM. As soon as it’s working, it’s nice—however don’t anticipate to flip a swap and be performed.
- Value is usually a problem for smaller companies, in my view. With a $1,500 annual contract minimal, it could actually really feel out of attain for startups or small IT groups that solely want a number of core options.
What G2 customers dislike about Okta:
“Okta is pricey and unsuitable for smaller companies. Pricing plans are a la carte and complicated. Configuring directories and consumer synchronization will take lots of time and effort.”
– Okta Overview, Qual A.
4. Salesforce Platform
I will be trustworthy and admit right here that after I consider IAM options, Salesforce isn’t the primary identify that involves thoughts. I imply, they’re recognized for his or her buyer relationship administration (CRM) system. That was it for me. However after digging in, I noticed that Salesforce Identification, provided by means of the Salesforce Platform, is definitely a stable IAM possibility—particularly if your enterprise is already working on Salesforce.
It has all of the necessities I’d anticipate from an IAM answer—SSO, MFA, related apps, and centralized consumer administration.
Salesforce additionally has App Launcher, which lets customers entry all their enterprise apps, be it Salesforce apps like Salesforce Coud, Mulesoft, Quip, Tableau merchandise or different vendor apps from one place with out logging in individually. Even when the corporate makes use of Energetic Listing for consumer administration, you should utilize Identification Connect with handle Salesforce accounts.That’s an enormous win for usability and safety, in my view.
I like the extent of management Salesforce offers over knowledge entry. Utilizing related apps and OAuth, you’ll be able to outline precisely who sees what, making it simple to limit buyer account entry to gross sales and assist groups whereas making certain different departments solely see what they want. Plus, id monitoring providers assist monitor and handle who’s accessing methods, providers, and knowledge, which is an enormous win for safety groups in search of higher visibility into consumer exercise.
I additionally discovered Buyer Identification to be a robust add-on, particularly for big companies with 1000’s of consumers to trace them throughout all channels. Prospects can self-register, log in, and securely entry apps with a single id. The perfect half is that it’s absolutely customizable to suit an organization’s branding and workflows, making Salesforce not simply an IAM answer but in addition a robust Buyer Identification and Entry Administration (CIAM) and advertising and marketing software on the similar time.
Whereas Salesforce Identification has quite a bit going for it, there are a number of areas the place I see some challenges. Setting every thing up isn’t as simple as you’d expecte—there are lots of configurations, permissions, and integrations to fine-tune, which may make onboarding time-consuming. In contrast to devoted IAM options like Okta or JumpCloud, that are constructed particularly for id administration, Salesforce Identification is extra like a bit of a bigger system, so it takes further effort to get every thing working easily.
Additionally, primarily based on my observations, the platform can really feel sluggish, particularly when coping with massive datasets or advanced workflows. It’s not a dealbreaker, however in the event you’re anticipating instantaneous entry and quick response occasions on a regular basis, this may be one thing to bear in mind.
After which there’s pricing. For my part, Salesforce Identification is sensible for big companies and enterprises already invested within the Salesforce ecosystem. However, for small to mid-sized corporations, it won’t be essentially the most budget-friendly possibility.
My suggestion can be to make use of Salesforce Identification in case you are already closely invested within the platform, particularly in case you are utilizing one among Skilled, Enterprise, Limitless, and Efficiency Version of their CRM software program.
What I like about Salesforce Platform:
- Salesforce Identification looks like a pure extension slightly than a separate software. Managing SSO, MFA, and consumer permissions instantly inside the Salesforce ecosystem makes issues simpler.
- I like that Salesforce Identification isn’t only for staff—it additionally offers Buyer Identification (CIAM) with the exterior id license. The power to let prospects and companions self-register, log in, and use social sign-ins like Fb or LinkedIn makes authentication less difficult.
What G2 customers like about Salesforce Platform:
“Salesforce is cloud-based and provides enterprise-grade scalability. Whether or not you are connecting to exterior methods by way of APIs, utilizing Salesforce Join for exterior knowledge sources, or leveraging pre-built connectors for common instruments.
I like finest is its flexibility and energy in enabling companies to construct customized functions with out requiring lots of advanced coding. Additionally buyer assist is nice and really useful. I’m utilizing saleforce every day in my work. It’s simple to make use of, intergrate and implement.“
– Salesforce Platform Overview, Rushabh U.
What I dislike about Salesforce Platform:
- To me, getting Salesforce Identification absolutely configured takes time. There are lots of settings to tweak, permissions to handle, and integrations to arrange, which may make onboarding extra difficult in comparison with devoted IAM options like Okta or JumpCloud. Efficiency could be sluggish –
- As I see it, sure processes really feel sluggish, particularly when working with massive datasets or advanced workflows on Salesforce. So, in the event you’re anticipating quick response occasions throughout the board, this may be a ache level.
What G2 customers like about Salesforce Platform:
“As a consumer, what I do not like about Salesforce is that it is extremely costly, espically for small bussiness and startups. As a developer, when you’re coping with great amount of information, the stories and dashboard can run slowly and generally governor restrict can prohibit the advanced operation.”
– Salesforce Platform Overview, Dhruv G.
5. Cisco Duo
After I first explored Cisco Duo, I used to be impressed by its simple strategy to safety. What actually stood out to me is how easy but efficient it’s. MFA, SSO, and adaptive authentication are at their core, and in contrast to some IAM instruments that really feel bloated with options you’ll by no means use, Duo retains issues targeted and simple to handle.
What stands out to me is how simple Duo is to make use of. Some IAM platforms include a steep studying curve, however Duo retains issues simple primarily based on my analysis. It’s additionally extremely versatile, integrating with a variety of functions and platforms, which makes deployment much less of a headache—one thing I can’t all the time say for different IAM instruments.
One other cool function is Duo Passport, which makes life simpler for customers by sharing remembered machine periods throughout functions. Meaning fewer repeated logins and much less friction for workers who want fast entry to a number of methods.
What I like essentially the most is that Duo provides a free plan, which isn’t one thing you see usually with IAM options. You may add as much as 10 customers for free of charge and nonetheless get entry to sturdy MFA, seamless integrations, and Duo’s free authenticator app. It’s a good way for small groups or startups to get began with safe entry controls with out worrying about price range constraints. Plus, it helps you to take a look at Duo’s options earlier than committing to a paid plan, which is all the time a plus.
One concern I’ve observed is that its offline entry is restricted, which could be irritating for customers who must authenticate however don’t have an web connection. I additionally suppose there’s room for enchancment in Duo’s UI and design. Whereas it’s practical, it may very well be extra intuitive and fashionable. Duo feels a bit utilitarian compared to different platforms. A extra polished interface would make the expertise even higher.
Irrespective of those cons, Cisco Duo is a stable selection for organizations in search of dependable MFA and SSO options with seamless integration capabilities
What I like about Cisco Duo:
- Some IAM instruments really feel such as you want a certification simply to set them up. However I’ve discovered that Duo retains issues simple, making MFA, and SSO, simple to deploy with out overcomplicating safety.
- I really like that Duo Passport remembers machine periods throughout apps. You don’t should maintain re-authenticating each time you turn between providers. It makes entry smoother whereas maintaining safety tight.
What G2 customers like about Cisco Duo:
“It was easy to arrange, and authentication is nearly instant when connecting to my firm’s VPN. I choose the push notification approval strategy, because it solely requires me to faucet a button on my telephone. It combines with many different out-of-the-box options, and it provides cloud-based, AD-integrated SAML SSO and digital equipment options to guard even bespoke interfaces.
We utilized Duo to guard our VMware Horizon desktop surroundings; setup and deployment had been easy, and I like how easy it’s to attach with Energetic Listing. Even higher, finish consumer onboarding was easy, and finish customers discovered the system easy to make use of, which is a very powerful profit.”
– Cisco Duo Overview, Connie B.
What I dislike about Cisco Duo:
- Primarily based on my analysis, if a consumer doesn’t have an web connection, Duo doesn’t supply some ways to authenticate, which is usually a downside for individuals who journey or work remotely in low-connectivity areas.
- From what I noticed, the UI feels a little bit outdated – It really works, nevertheless it’s not essentially the most fashionable or intuitive interface I’ve seen. A refresh would make the expertise smoother, particularly for IT groups managing massive deployments.
What G2 customers dislike about Cisco Duo:
“The arrange of on-line and offline could be complicated for finish customers. Additionally, if time desyncs, it turns into a HUGE downside.”
– Cisco Duo Overview, Jonathan M.
Discover the finest password managers which are designed to securely retailer, generate, and autofill passwords whereas defending consumer accounts.
Now, there are a number of extra choices, as talked about beneath, that did not make it to this checklist however are nonetheless price contemplating, in my view:
- AWS Verified Entry: Greatest for securing AWS environments with Zero Belief entry controls.
- Google Cloud Identification: Greatest for organizations deep within the Google ecosystem needing seamless IAM.
- Oracle Identification Cloud Service: Greatest for hybrid cloud IAM with sturdy enterprise integrations.
- Rippling: Greatest for combining IAM with HR and payroll administration in a single platform.
- IBM Confirm: Greatest for AI-driven id safety and superior risk detection.
- SailPoint: Greatest for enterprise-level id governance and compliance administration.
Ceaselessly requested questions (FAQ) on IAM software program
1. Why is IAM essential for companies?
IAM enhances safety, reduces the danger of information breaches, streamlines consumer entry, and ensures compliance with business rules (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA, SOC 2). It additionally improves productiveness by automating consumer provisioning and entry administration.
2. What options ought to I search for in IAM software program?
Key IAM options embrace:
- Single sign-on (SSO): Permits customers to log in as soon as and entry a number of functions.
- Multi-factor authentication (MFA): Provides an additional layer of safety past passwords.
- Person provisioning and deprovisioning: Automates account creation and removing.
- Function-based entry management (RBAC):Assigns permissions primarily based on job roles.
- Audit and compliance reporting: Helps monitor entry logs for safety and regulatory functions.
- Identification federation: Helps cross-domain authentication.
3. What’s the distinction between IAM and PAM (Privileged Entry Administration)?
IAM focuses on managing entry for all customers in a company. PAM is particularly designed to safe entry for privileged accounts with elevated permissions, reminiscent of system directors.
4. Is IAM software program cloud-based or on-premises?
IAM options could be:
- Cloud-based: Hosted by a supplier, scalable, and superb for contemporary SaaS functions.
- On-premises: Put in inside an organization’s infrastructure, providing extra management over safety insurance policies.
- Hybrid: Combines each fashions for flexibility.
5. Can IAM software program assist with Zero Belief safety?
Sure, IAM is a crucial part of Zero Belief by imposing id verification, least privilege entry, and steady monitoring to stop unauthorized entry.
6. How a lot does IAM software program value?
IAM pricing varies primarily based on options, deployment sort, and the variety of customers. Some distributors supply subscription-based fashions, whereas others present enterprise licensing. Extra prices might embrace implementation, assist, and compliance options.
7. How can I select the fitting IAM answer for my enterprise?
Contemplate: Your group’s measurement and safety want Integration capabilities along with your current instruments, Compliance necessities, Scalability, ease of use, and Help for contemporary safety practices (e.g., Zero Belief, MFA, adaptive authentication).
8. Which is the very best id and entry administration software program?
The perfect IAM software depends upon your group’s wants, price range, and current infrastructure. Well-liked IAM options embrace Okta, Microsoft Entra ID (previously Azure AD), JumpCloud, Cicso Duo, Ping Identification, IBM Safety Confirm, and ForgeRock. It is best to check options, integrations, and safety capabilities earlier than selecting.
IAM prepared
After digging into the very best IAM software program options, I’ve come to 1 conclusion: safety ought to work with individuals, not towards them. The strongest authentication insurance policies on this planet received’t assist if staff discover methods round them out of frustration. On the similar time, a simple login expertise means nothing if the improper individual positive aspects entry. That’s the balancing act each IT and safety workforce faces, and the fitting IAM software makes all of the distinction.
If your organization is deep in Microsoft’s ecosystem, Entra ID is a robust selection. JumpCloud and Okta offers you flexibility throughout totally different platforms. Salesforce Identification is sensible if Salesforce runs your enterprise, and Cisco Duo retains issues easy with sturdy MFA and integrations. Every software has its place—however the very best IAM answer is the one that matches how your group really operates.
On the finish of the day, IAM isn’t nearly securing logins—it’s about defending your enterprise from actual threats whereas maintaining entry clean for the fitting individuals. So, Ppick the fitting IAM, and also you’re not simply imposing insurance policies—you’re constructing a safety tradition that really works.
Nonetheless on the hunt? Discover our classes of id administration methods to seek out the very best match on your safety wants.