In my years writing about cybersecurity, I’ve realized one common reality: 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 net of SaaS purposes, protecting accounts safe with out irritating customers is less complicated mentioned than achieved.
Throw in distant work, third-party integrations, and compliance audits into the combo, and it’s no shock that IAM seems like an limitless sport of catch-up. The problem isn’t nearly safety—it’s about discovering the proper IAM instrument that truly works with out including complexity to day by day operations.
When you’re a safety chief, IT supervisor, or enterprise decision-maker, discovering the greatest id and entry administration software program on your group can really feel overwhelming. With so many choices promising hermetic safety and seamless integration, how are you aware which one actually delivers?
I’ve achieved all this analysis, so that you don’t must. I spoke with IAM specialists, reviewed G2 reviews, 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 all the way down to the highest 5 that truly stand out—for safety, scalability, and value.
5 greatest id and entry administration software program: My High Picks
- Microsoft Entra ID for organizations already in Microsoft ecosystem.($6/consumer/month)
- JumpCloud for managing identities throughout multi-OS environments with built-in cell 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, based on G2 Grid Experiences. I’ve talked about the beginning value of their paid plans for straightforward comparability.
Whether or not you’re upgrading your IAM technique or selecting an answer for the primary time, this information will allow you to discover the most effective match on your group.
5 greatest 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 observe 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, stop unauthorized entry, and scale back threat with out turning each login try right into a assist ticket.
I’ve seen my justifiable share of IAM software program in all sizes and styles, from cloud-focused ones to on-premises options and from extremely customizable methods for giant enterprises to easy choices for rising groups.
From my analysis and conversations with IAM specialists, I’ve realized that the most effective IAM software program isn’t nearly safety. It is in regards to 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 most effective IAM software program?
Discovering the most effective IAM software program isn’t nearly evaluating characteristic lists or vendor guarantees—safety leaders want options that truly work in the actual world. I began by analyzing G2 Grid reviews, 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 investigate to investigate a whole bunch of consumer critiques of those merchandise. This helped me determine 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 day by day. Their suggestions helped me reduce via the noise and deal with options that ship robust 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 most effective id and entry administration software program: My standards
Primarily based on every thing I’ve realized, right here’s the guidelines I used to guage the highest IAM resolution:
- Robust authentication with out friction: Authentication needs to be sturdy, however it shouldn’t create pointless complications. If logging in seems like a chore, customers will take shortcuts—reusing passwords, writing them down, or bypassing safety altogether. I regarded for IAM options that supply multi-factor authentication (MFA) past the fundamentals, with choices like biometric verification, passwordless login, and adaptive authentication that adjusts safety necessities primarily based on threat. Single sign-on (SSO) was one other huge 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 greater 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 supply robust role-based entry management (RBAC) made the reduce, 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 kind, location, and login habits to make smarter entry selections. Simply-in-time entry was one other characteristic that stood out, limiting high-privilege entry solely when it’s completely vital, 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 Lively 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 laws, IAM isn’t only a safety instrument—it’s a compliance requirement. I centered on options that supply built-in audit logs, detailed compliance reporting, and governance options like entry critiques and certification workflows. Assembly trade 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 adaptability for rising organizations: A great IAM resolution 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 provide 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 permit 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 truly use it. I regarded for IAM options that supply 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 scale back friction whereas nonetheless imposing robust 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 day by day. After checking every instrument in opposition to 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 critiques 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 position, group membership, and different elements.
- Implement consumer entry rights primarily based on permissions.
- Confirm consumer id with authentication, which can embody multi-factor authentication strategies.
- Combine with directories that home worker knowledge.
*This knowledge was pulled from G2 in 2025. Some critiques could have been edited for readability.
1. Microsoft Entra ID
Relating to IAM options, Microsoft Entra ID (previously Azure Lively Listing) is usually one of many first title that comes up—and for good purpose. 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 free of charge. Which means there’s built-in assist for MFA, limitless SSO throughout SaaS apps, primary reporting, and self-service password modifications for cloud customers with none additional value. For companies already within the Microsoft ecosystem, it is a enormous benefit.
From my analysis and conversations with IT professionals, Entra ID stands out for its robust authentication, highly effective safety controls, and versatile conditional entry insurance policies. Mix it additional with Intune, Microsoft’s cloud-based endpoint administration resolution, we get a sturdy system for unified entry management and endpoint administration.
One in all its greatest strengths is conditional entry in my view. IT groups love the flexibility to implement safety insurance policies primarily based on consumer habits, location, and threat stage. This implies customers logging in from an unknown machine could be prompted for MFA, whereas trusted customers on managed units can entry sources with out pointless friction. It’s a sensible strategy that balances safety with usability.
I additionally discovered that we might join on-premise Lively Listing with Entra ID utilizing Entra Join and simplify entry administration throughout cloud and on-premise. I believe that is notably 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. When you’re already working a Microsoft-heavy atmosphere, issues are inclined to fall into place extra easily. However for firms 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 should you’re already utilizing Microsoft providers, however the extra superior safety features underneath id safety, governance, and privileged entry administration are solely obtainable in higher-tier licenses like Entra ID P2 or the Suite. That’s the place issues get tough in my view.
For smaller organizations that truly want these options however don’t have the price range for premium licensing, it may be a tricky name. When you’re in search of a fully-featured IAM resolution with out spending additional, you actually must dig into which Entra ID tier matches your safety and compliance wants.
Regardless of these cons, Microsoft Entra ID is a stable IAM to contemplate, particularly if you’re 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 Lively Listing with the cloud, and on-prem writeback makes life a lot simpler for companies that aren’t totally cloud-native but.
What G2 customers like about Microsoft Entra ID:
“Microsoft Entra is likely one of the greatest options Microsoft presents for verifying and figuring out enterprise expertise property similar to laptops and cellphones. It ensures that solely the proper individuals have entry to particular sources.
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 supplies full disk encryption for the asset. This manner, knowledge is securely saved and will be recovered with a BitLocker restoration key.”
– Microsoft Entra ID Assessment, Erick Vincent Steve G.
What I dislike about Microsoft Entra ID:
- From what I noticed, organising Entra ID isn’t precisely a clean experience. When you’re not already locked into Microsoft’s ecosystem, anticipate some additional 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 number of the options that safety groups really want are locked behind Entra ID P2, which isn’t low-cost.
What G2 customers dislike about Microsoft Entra ID:
“Customers who are usually not aware of Microsoft merchandise will face difficulties in understanding the mixing of this product, and the identical goes for firms utilizing non-Microsoft platforms. The price of implementing Microsoft Entra ID may very well be a priority for low-budget firms 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 Assessment, Sahil C.
2. JumpCloud
JumpCloud stands out to me as a versatile, cloud-first IAM resolution that’s designed for organizations that need to transfer past conventional on-prem id administration.
What I like about it’s that JumpCloud follows an open listing strategy which provides 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 Lively Listing—it additionally integrates seamlessly with Google Workspace, AWS, and third-party SaaS apps. That makes it a powerful alternative for multi-cloud and hybrid setups.
I additionally like that JumpCloud combines IAM with cell machine administration (MDM), listing providers, and endpoint safety right into a single platform. Managing customers, units, 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 undoubtedly will get my reward for its clear and user-friendly interface. Onboarding new customers is easy, 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 fame.
Nonetheless, there are some things that may be improved. From what I noticed, some options are lacking, like self-service for account unlocks, which implies IT groups must 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 provide MDM, however should you’re managing a big fleet of units, particularly in Apple-heavy environments, it may not have the identical stage of granular management and automation that Jamf or different MDM supplies.
That mentioned, I would say JumpCloud’s energy lies in its unified strategy of integrating IAM, listing providers, and MDM right into a single platform. When you’re in search of an all-in-one resolution reasonably than a standalone enterprise-grade choice of IAM and MDM, Jumpcloud continues to be a stable alternative, particularly for small and medium companies, even at the next value level.
What I like about JumpCloud:
- Not like Microsoft Entra ID, which is best optimized for the Microsoft ecosystem, JumpCloud provides 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 resolution—it additionally contains cell 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 characteristic in JumpCloud, Software program Administration, which is sort of useful.
Additionally, it is vitally simple to use any insurance policies by way of JumpCloud to end-user methods, similar to password coverage, MFA for logging into the system, and many others. Additionally, listing integration could be very simple to arrange, similar to AD, Cloud, or HR directories. With this, we are able to additionally run instructions on distant methods and take distant help/management of the system, which could be very helpful. And the shopper assist is at all times there for you, and they’re fairly quick in responding.”
– Jumpcloud Assessment, Saurabh R.
What I dislike about JumpCloud:
- From my statement, 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 provide self-service choices.
- I additionally suppose sure options want enchancment. As an illustration, distant Help feels clunky, and whereas MDM works, it doesn’t provide 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 vital on this period of enterprise safety administration.“
– Jumpcloud Assessment, Gangadhara S.
3. Okta
From my expertise, Okta is likely one of the most versatile and scalable IAM options, particularly for organizations that want robust safety, seamless integrations, and superior authentication controls. Okta can be vendor-neutral—identical to JumpCloud, and I’ve discovered it to be an important match for firms managing multi-cloud environments or dealing with a posh mixture of SaaS purposes 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 purposes, 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 presents one of many smoothest SSO experiences on the market.
Whereas it has Okta Confirm as a stable built-in choice for MFA, I discover it beneficial that it additionally helps third-party MFA and token suppliers, giving firms the liberty to combine what works greatest for them. I additionally like that Okta presents 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 full of enterprise-grade safety and IAM options, I’ve seen that pricing could be a hurdle for smaller companies and startups. Okta presents a la carte pricing, so firms can choose 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 totally arrange isn’t simple. There are lots of settings, insurance policies, and integrations that want cautious configuration, and the preliminary setup can really feel overwhelming, primarily based on my observations. Positively, Okta presents good documentation and assist, however 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 provides me the management I have to stability safety with usability.
What G2 customers like about Okta:
“Over time, I’ve labored with Okta throughout varied firms, and I need to say that it’s actually among the finest SSO options available on the market. Not solely is it user-friendly with a contemporary interface, however it additionally boasts excessive safety requirements and helps working with 1000’s of customers concurrently.”
– Okta Assessment, 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 numerous settings to fine-tune, and the educational curve can really feel steep should you’re new to IAM. As soon as it’s working, it’s nice—however don’t anticipate to flip a swap and be achieved.
- Price could be a problem for smaller companies, in my view. With a $1,500 annual contract minimal, it may well 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 numerous time and effort.”
– Okta Assessment, Qual A.
4. Salesforce Platform
I will be trustworthy and admit right here that after I consider IAM options, Salesforce isn’t the primary title 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 Id, supplied via the Salesforce Platform, is definitely a stable IAM choice—particularly if your online business is already working on Salesforce.
It has all of the necessities I’d anticipate from an IAM resolution—SSO, MFA, linked 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 Lively Listing for consumer administration, you should use Id Connect with handle Salesforce accounts.That’s an enormous win for usability and safety, in my view.
I like the extent of management Salesforce supplies over knowledge entry. Utilizing linked 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 observe 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 Id to be a powerful add-on, particularly for giant companies with 1000’s of shoppers to trace them throughout all channels. Clients can self-register, log in, and securely entry apps with a single id. The perfect half is that it’s totally customizable to suit an organization’s branding and workflows, making Salesforce not simply an IAM resolution but in addition a strong Buyer Id and Entry Administration (CIAM) and advertising instrument on the identical time.
Whereas Salesforce Id has rather a lot going for it, there are a number of areas the place I see some challenges. Setting every thing up isn’t as easy as you’d expecte—there are numerous configurations, permissions, and integrations to fine-tune, which may make onboarding time-consuming. Not like devoted IAM options like Okta or JumpCloud, that are constructed particularly for id administration, Salesforce Id is extra like a bit of a bigger system, so it takes additional 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 complicated workflows. It’s not a dealbreaker, however should you’re anticipating immediate entry and quick response occasions on a regular basis, this could be one thing to remember.
After which there’s pricing. In my view, Salesforce Id is sensible for giant companies and enterprises already invested within the Salesforce ecosystem. However, for small to mid-sized firms, it may not be essentially the most budget-friendly choice.
My suggestion can be to make use of Salesforce Id if you’re already closely invested within the platform, particularly if you’re utilizing certainly one of Skilled, Enterprise, Limitless, and Efficiency Version of their CRM software program.
What I like about Salesforce Platform:
- Salesforce Id seems like a pure extension reasonably than a separate instrument. Managing SSO, MFA, and consumer permissions straight throughout the Salesforce ecosystem makes issues simpler.
- I like that Salesforce Id isn’t only for staff—it additionally supplies Buyer Id (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 easier.
What G2 customers like about Salesforce Platform:
“Salesforce is cloud-based and presents 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 standard instruments.
I like greatest is its flexibility and energy in enabling companies to construct customized purposes with out requiring numerous complicated coding. Additionally buyer assist is nice and really useful. I’m utilizing saleforce day by day in my work. It’s simple to make use of, intergrate and implement.“
– Salesforce Platform Assessment, Rushabh U.
What I dislike about Salesforce Platform:
- To me, getting Salesforce Id totally configured takes time. There are numerous settings to tweak, permissions to handle, and integrations to arrange, which may make onboarding extra sophisticated in comparison with devoted IAM options like Okta or JumpCloud. Efficiency will be gradual –
- As I see it, sure processes really feel sluggish, particularly when working with massive datasets or complicated workflows on Salesforce. So, should you’re anticipating quick response occasions throughout the board, this could 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 vitally costly, espically for small bussiness and startups. As a developer, if you find yourself coping with great amount of knowledge, the reviews and dashboard can run slowly and typically governor restrict can limit the complicated operation.”
– Salesforce Platform Assessment, Dhruv G.
5. Cisco Duo
Once I first explored Cisco Duo, I used to be impressed by its easy 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 centered 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 easy primarily based on my analysis. It’s additionally extremely versatile, integrating with a variety of purposes and platforms, which makes deployment much less of a headache—one thing I can’t at all times say for different IAM instruments.
One other cool characteristic is Duo Passport, which makes life simpler for customers by sharing remembered machine periods throughout purposes. Which means 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 presents a free plan, which isn’t one thing you see typically with IAM options. You may add as much as 10 customers without charge and nonetheless get entry to robust MFA, seamless integrations, and Duo’s free authenticator app. It’s an effective way for small groups or startups to get began with safe entry controls with out worrying about price range constraints. Plus, it allows you to take a look at Duo’s options earlier than committing to a paid plan, which is at all times a plus.
One subject I’ve seen is that its offline entry is restricted, which will be irritating for customers who have to 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 useful, 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 alternative for organizations looking for 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 easy, 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 must hold re-authenticating each time you turn between providers. It makes entry smoother whereas protecting safety tight.
What G2 customers like about Cisco Duo:
“It was easy to arrange, and authentication is just about rapid when connecting to my firm’s VPN. I favor the push notification approval strategy, because it solely requires me to faucet a button on my cellphone. It combines with many different out-of-the-box options, and it presents cloud-based, AD-integrated SAML SSO and digital equipment options to guard even bespoke interfaces.
We utilized Duo to guard our VMware Horizon desktop atmosphere; setup and deployment have been easy, and I like how easy it’s to attach with Lively Listing. Even higher, finish consumer onboarding was easy, and finish customers discovered the system easy to make use of, which is crucial profit.”
– Cisco Duo Assessment, 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 provide some ways to authenticate, which could be a drawback for individuals who journey or work remotely in low-connectivity areas.
- From what I noticed, the UI feels slightly outdated – It really works, however 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 will be complicated for finish customers. Additionally, if time desyncs, it turns into a HUGE drawback.”
– Cisco Duo Assessment, Jonathan M.
Discover the greatest password managers which might be 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: Finest for securing AWS environments with Zero Belief entry controls.
- Google Cloud Id: Finest for organizations deep within the Google ecosystem needing seamless IAM.
- Oracle Id Cloud Service: Finest for hybrid cloud IAM with robust enterprise integrations.
- Rippling: Finest for combining IAM with HR and payroll administration in a single platform.
- IBM Confirm: Finest for AI-driven id safety and superior risk detection.
- SailPoint: Finest for enterprise-level id governance and compliance administration.
Regularly requested questions (FAQ) on IAM software program
1. Why is IAM essential for companies?
IAM enhances safety, reduces the chance of knowledge breaches, streamlines consumer entry, and ensures compliance with trade laws (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 embody:
- Single sign-on (SSO): Allows customers to log in as soon as and entry a number of purposes.
- Multi-factor authentication (MFA): Provides an additional layer of safety past passwords.
- Person provisioning and deprovisioning: Automates account creation and elimination.
- Function-based entry management (RBAC):Assigns permissions primarily based on job roles.
- Audit and compliance reporting: Helps observe entry logs for safety and regulatory functions.
- Id 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, similar to system directors.
4. Is IAM software program cloud-based or on-premises?
IAM options will be:
- Cloud-based: Hosted by a supplier, scalable, and supreme for contemporary SaaS purposes.
- 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 element of Zero Belief by imposing id verification, least privilege entry, and steady monitoring to forestall unauthorized entry.
6. How a lot does IAM software program value?
IAM pricing varies primarily based on options, deployment kind, and the variety of customers. Some distributors provide subscription-based fashions, whereas others present enterprise licensing. Further prices could embody implementation, assist, and compliance options.
7. How can I select the proper IAM resolution for my enterprise?
Think about: Your group’s measurement and safety want Integration capabilities together with your current instruments, Compliance necessities, Scalability, ease of use, and Assist for contemporary safety practices (e.g., Zero Belief, MFA, adaptive authentication).
8. Which is the most effective id and entry administration software program?
The perfect IAM instrument is dependent upon your group’s wants, price range, and current infrastructure. Widespread IAM options embody Okta, Microsoft Entra ID (previously Azure AD), JumpCloud, Cicso Duo, Ping Id, IBM Safety Confirm, and ForgeRock. It is best to check options, integrations, and safety capabilities earlier than selecting.
IAM prepared
After digging into the most effective IAM software program options, I’ve come to at least one conclusion: safety ought to work with individuals, not in opposition to them. The strongest authentication insurance policies on the earth received’t assist if staff discover methods round them out of frustration. On the identical time, a straightforward login expertise means nothing if the improper individual features entry. That’s the balancing act each IT and safety workforce faces, and the proper IAM instrument makes all of the distinction.
If your organization is deep in Microsoft’s ecosystem, Entra ID is a powerful alternative. JumpCloud and Okta provides you flexibility throughout totally different platforms. Salesforce Id is sensible if Salesforce runs your online business, and Cisco Duo retains issues easy with robust MFA and integrations. Every instrument has its place—however the most effective IAM resolution is the one that matches how your group truly operates.
On the finish of the day, IAM isn’t nearly securing logins—it’s about defending your online business from actual threats whereas protecting entry clean for the proper individuals. So, Ppick the proper IAM, and also you’re not simply imposing insurance policies—you’re constructing a safety tradition that truly works.
Nonetheless on the hunt? Discover our classes of id administration methods to seek out the most effective match on your safety wants.
