In my years writing about cybersecurity, I’ve realized one common fact: nobody wakes up enthusiastic about identification and entry administration (IAM), however everybody regrets ignoring it.
Between workers reusing weak passwords, phishing makes an attempt concentrating on credentials, and the rising net of SaaS functions, preserving accounts safe with out irritating customers is less complicated stated than performed.
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 fitting IAM instrument that truly works with out including complexity to every day operations.
For those who’re a safety chief, IT supervisor, or enterprise decision-maker, discovering the greatest identification and entry administration software program to your group can really feel overwhelming. With so many choices promising hermetic safety and seamless integration, how are you aware which one really delivers?
I’ve performed all this analysis, so that you don’t must. I spoke with IAM specialists, reviewed G2 stories, and gathered insights from my very own IT and safety staff (who’ve seen sufficient dangerous 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 identification and entry administration software program: My Prime Picks
- Microsoft Entra ID for organizations already in Microsoft ecosystem.($6/person/month)
- JumpCloud for managing identities throughout multi-OS environments with built-in cell machine administration.($9/person/month)
- Okta for enterprise-grade authentication with easy third-party integrations.($2/person/month for SSO)
- Salesforce Platform for companies working on Salesforce that want built-in identification administration. ($5/person/month)
- Cisco Duo for easy-to-use and powerful multi-factor authentication. ($3/person/month)
*These are the top-rated merchandise within the IAM software program class, in response to G2 Grid Studies. 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 provide help to discover the most effective match to your group.
5 greatest identification and entry administration software program I like to recommend
I’ve seen firsthand how vital identification and entry administration software program is for companies. With out it, managing person entry is like handing out keys to an workplace and dropping monitor of who has them or the place they’re getting used.
IAM software program is what retains that chaos in test. 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 danger with out turning each login try right into a assist ticket.
I’ve seen my justifiable share of IAM software program in all styles and sizes, 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 steadiness between safe person 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 function lists or vendor guarantees—safety leaders want options that truly work in the true world. I began by analyzing G2 Grid stories, which rank IAM instruments primarily based on real-world adoption, person 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 lot of person 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 considerations about integration with current safety stacks.
I additionally spoke with IAM specialists, my very own IT and safety staff members, and professionals who cope with identification safety every day. Their suggestions helped me reduce via the noise and concentrate on options that ship sturdy safety with out turning 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 identification and entry administration software program: My standards
Primarily based on all the pieces I’ve realized, right here’s the guidelines I used to judge the highest IAM resolution:
- Sturdy authentication with out friction: Authentication must be strong, 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 seemed 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 large 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 further safety when wanted scored greater on my record.
- Granular entry controls and role-based administration: It’s not nearly who can log in—it’s about what they’ll entry as soon as inside. IAM options that provide sturdy role-based entry management (RBAC) made the reduce, permitting IT groups to handle permissions at scale with out manually adjusting each person’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 choices. Simply-in-time entry was one other function 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 identification 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 handbook 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 instrument—it’s a compliance requirement. I centered on options that provide 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 suppleness for rising organizations: An excellent IAM resolution ought to develop with the enterprise, not maintain it again. I evaluated how properly 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 an alternative of forcing a inflexible, one-size-fits-all strategy.
- Consumer expertise: IAM safety solely works if folks truly use it. I seemed 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 continuously unlock accounts simply because somebody forgot a password. The most effective options scale back friction whereas nonetheless imposing sturdy safety insurance policies.
I wished to judge IAM options from a security-first perspective whereas additionally contemplating how IT groups and workers work together with them every day. After checking every instrument 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 record beneath comprises real person critiques from the IAM software program class. To be included on this class, an answer should:
- Provision and de-provision of person identities.
- Assign entry primarily based on particular person position, group membership, and different elements.
- Implement person entry rights primarily based on permissions.
- Confirm person identification with authentication, which can embrace multi-factor authentication strategies.
- Combine with directories that home worker information.
*This information was pulled from G2 in 2025. Some critiques could have been edited for readability.
1. Microsoft Entra ID
In relation to IAM options, Microsoft Entra ID (previously Azure Lively Listing) is usually one of many first identify that comes up—and for good motive. It’s deeply built-in into the Microsoft ecosystem.
And right here’s what makes it much more interesting for my part. If an organization is already utilizing Microsoft providers like Azure, Dynamics 365, Intune, or Energy Platform, Entra ID comes included totally free. 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 price. 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 resolution, we get a strong system for unified entry management and endpoint administration.
One in all its greatest strengths is conditional entry for my part. IT groups love the power to implement safety insurance policies primarily based on person habits, location, and danger degree. 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 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 stated, 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. For those who’re already working a Microsoft-heavy surroundings, issues are inclined to fall into place extra easily. However for corporations with a combined IT infrastructure or these transitioning from a non-Microsoft setup, getting all the pieces 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 security measures underneath identification 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 tough for my part.
For smaller organizations that truly want these options however don’t have the funds for premium licensing, it may be a tricky name. For those who’re in search of a fully-featured IAM resolution with out spending further, you actually must dig into which Entra ID tier matches your safety and compliance wants.
Regardless of these cons, Microsoft Entra ID is a strong 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 like how seamlessly Entra ID integrates with Azure, Workplace 365, and the remainder of the Microsoft ecosystem. There’s no fuss—all the pieces simply connects the way in which 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 belongings comparable to laptops and cell phones. It ensures that solely the fitting folks have entry to particular assets.
What I like essentially the most are these three options: multi-factor authentication with the Microsoft Authenticator app, identification administration for every machine, and its integration with BitLocker, which gives full disk encryption for the asset. This fashion, information is securely saved and may 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. For those who’re not already locked into Microsoft’s ecosystem, count on some further effort and time to get all the pieces configured correctly.
- Primarily based on my analysis, licensing price 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 will not be accustomed to Microsoft merchandise will face difficulties in understanding the combination 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 Assessment, Sahil C.
2. JumpCloud
JumpCloud stands out to me as a versatile, cloud-first IAM resolution that’s designed for organizations that wish to transfer past conventional on-prem identification 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 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, 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 undoubtedly will get my reward for its clear and user-friendly interface. Onboarding new customers is straightforward, and SSO and MFA are straightforward to deploy throughout a corporation.
One other factor I’ve discovered is that JumpCloud has an intensive information base with step-by-step tutorials and movies. This makes it straightforward to arrange and implement safety insurance policies. And if one thing does go fallacious, buyer assist has a strong repute.
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 person 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 should you’re managing a big fleet of gadgets, particularly in Apple-heavy environments, it may not have the identical degree of granular management and automation that Jamf or different MDM gives.
That stated, I would say JumpCloud’s power lies in its unified strategy of integrating IAM, listing providers, and MDM right into a single platform. For those who’re in search of an all-in-one resolution relatively than a standalone enterprise-grade choice of IAM and MDM, Jumpcloud remains to be a strong alternative, 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 resolution—it additionally consists of cell machine administration (MDM), listing providers, and endpoint safety.
What G2 customers like about JumpCloud:
“JumpCloud may be very straightforward to make use of and user-friendly. It helped us handle our workers’ methods. We will now handle software program software installations on these methods by way of a function in JumpCloud, Software program Administration, which is sort of useful.
Additionally, it is extremely straightforward to use any insurance policies by way of JumpCloud to end-user methods, comparable to password coverage, MFA for logging into the system, and so on. Additionally, listing integration may be very straightforward to arrange, comparable to AD, Cloud, or HR directories. With this, we will additionally run instructions on distant methods and take distant help/management of the system, which may be very helpful. And the client assist is all the time there for you, and they’re fairly quick in responding.”
– Jumpcloud Assessment, Saurabh R.
What I dislike about JumpCloud:
- From my commentary, some options are nonetheless lacking. For instance, I discovered it lacks self-service account unlocks. Each time a person 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. As an illustration, 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, Consumer 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 sturdy safety, seamless integrations, and superior authentication controls. Okta can be vendor-neutral—similar to JumpCloud, and I’ve discovered it to be an amazing match for corporations managing multi-cloud environments or dealing with a posh mixture of SaaS functions that require deep integration and automation.
One factor that actually impressed me is how properly 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 person provisioning effortlessly.
One other space the place Okta shines is person 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 strong built-in choice for MFA, I discover it priceless that it additionally helps third-party MFA and token suppliers, giving corporations 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 filled with 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 corporations 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 straightforward. There are various 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 all the pieces 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 all the pieces, whether or not you’re managing Microsoft, Google Workspace, AWS, or a ton of SaaS apps. It makes SSO, adaptive authentication, and automatic person 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 steadiness safety with usability.
What G2 customers like about Okta:
“Over time, I’ve labored with Okta throughout numerous corporations, and I have to say that it’s actually the most effective SSO options in the marketplace. Not solely is it user-friendly with a contemporary interface, however it additionally boasts excessive safety requirements and helps working with hundreds 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 all the pieces configured takes time. There are a variety of 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 count on to flip a change and be performed.
- Value could be a problem for smaller companies, for my part. With a $1,500 annual contract minimal, it will probably really feel out of attain for startups or small IT groups that solely want a couple of core options.
What G2 customers dislike about Okta:
“Okta is dear and unsuitable for smaller companies. Pricing plans are a la carte and complicated. Configuring directories and person synchronization will take a variety of 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 identify that involves thoughts. I imply, they’re identified 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 strong IAM choice—particularly if your online business is already working on Salesforce.
It has all of the necessities I’d count on from an IAM resolution—SSO, MFA, related apps, and centralized person 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 person administration, you should use Id Hook up with handle Salesforce accounts.That’s an enormous win for usability and safety, for my part.
I like the extent of management Salesforce gives over information entry. Utilizing related apps and OAuth, you may outline precisely who sees what, making it straightforward to limit buyer account entry to gross sales and assist groups whereas guaranteeing different departments solely see what they want. Plus, identification monitoring providers assist monitor and handle who’s accessing methods, providers, and information, which is an enormous win for safety groups in search of higher visibility into person exercise.
I additionally discovered Buyer Id to be a powerful add-on, particularly for giant companies with hundreds of consumers to trace them throughout all channels. Prospects can self-register, log in, and securely entry apps with a single identification. The most effective 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 robust Buyer Id and Entry Administration (CIAM) and advertising and marketing instrument on the identical time.
Whereas Salesforce Id has rather a lot going for it, there are a couple of areas the place I see some challenges. Setting all the pieces up isn’t as simple as you’d expecte—there are a variety 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 identification administration, Salesforce Id is extra like a chunk of a bigger system, so it takes further effort to get all the pieces 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 should you’re anticipating prompt entry and quick response instances on a regular basis, this may be one thing to bear in mind.
After which there’s pricing. For my part, Salesforce Id is sensible for giant companies and enterprises already invested within the Salesforce ecosystem. However, for small to mid-sized corporations, it may not be essentially the most budget-friendly choice.
My suggestion could be to make use of Salesforce Id in case you are already closely invested within the platform, particularly in case you are 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 relatively than a separate instrument. Managing SSO, MFA, and person permissions instantly inside the Salesforce ecosystem makes issues simpler.
- I like that Salesforce Id isn’t only for workers—it additionally gives Buyer Id (CIAM) with the exterior identification license. The flexibility 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 presents enterprise-grade scalability. Whether or not you are connecting to exterior methods by way of APIs, utilizing Salesforce Join for exterior information sources, or leveraging pre-built connectors for standard instruments.
I like greatest is its flexibility and energy in enabling companies to construct customized functions with out requiring a variety of advanced coding. Additionally buyer assist is nice and really useful. I’m utilizing saleforce every day in my work. It’s straightforward 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 a variety of 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 may be gradual –
- As I see it, sure processes really feel sluggish, particularly when working with massive datasets or advanced workflows on Salesforce. So, should you’re anticipating quick response instances throughout the board, this may be a ache level.
What G2 customers like about Salesforce Platform:
“As a person, what I do not like about Salesforce is that it is extremely costly, espically for small bussiness and startups. As a developer, if you end up coping with great amount of knowledge, the stories and dashboard can run slowly and generally governor restrict can prohibit the advanced operation.”
– Salesforce Platform Assessment, 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 centered and simple to handle.
What stands out to me is how straightforward 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 classes 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 presents a free plan, which isn’t one thing you see typically with IAM options. You may add as much as 10 customers for gratis and nonetheless get entry to sturdy 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 funds 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 seen is that its offline entry is restricted, which may 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 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 strong alternative 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, straightforward to deploy with out overcomplicating safety.
- I like that Duo Passport remembers machine classes throughout apps. You don’t must preserve re-authenticating each time you turn between providers. It makes entry smoother whereas preserving safety tight.
What G2 customers like about Cisco Duo:
“It was easy to arrange, and authentication is just about instant when connecting to my firm’s VPN. I desire 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 alternate options to guard even bespoke interfaces.
We utilized Duo to guard our VMware Horizon desktop surroundings; setup and deployment have been easy, and I like how easy it’s to attach with Lively Listing. Even higher, finish person 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 person doesn’t have an web connection, Duo doesn’t supply 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 a bit of 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 may 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 person accounts.
Now, there are a couple of extra choices, as talked about beneath, that did not make it to this record however are nonetheless value contemplating, for my part:
- 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 sturdy enterprise integrations.
- Rippling: Finest for combining IAM with HR and payroll administration in a single platform.
- IBM Confirm: Finest for AI-driven identification safety and superior menace detection.
- SailPoint: Finest for enterprise-level identification governance and compliance administration.
Steadily requested questions (FAQ) on IAM software program
1. Why is IAM vital for companies?
IAM enhances safety, reduces the danger of knowledge breaches, streamlines person entry, and ensures compliance with trade rules (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA, SOC 2). It additionally improves productiveness by automating person provisioning and entry administration.
2. What options ought to I search for in IAM software program?
Key IAM options embrace:
- Single sign-on (SSO): Allows 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.
- Consumer 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 monitor 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 corporation. PAM is particularly designed to safe entry for privileged accounts with elevated permissions, comparable to system directors.
4. Is IAM software program cloud-based or on-premises?
IAM options may be:
- Cloud-based: Hosted by a supplier, scalable, and supreme 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 element of Zero Belief by imposing identification verification, least privilege entry, and steady monitoring to stop unauthorized entry.
6. How a lot does IAM software program price?
IAM pricing varies primarily based on options, deployment kind, and the variety of customers. Some distributors supply subscription-based fashions, whereas others present enterprise licensing. Further prices could embrace implementation, assist, and compliance options.
7. How can I select the fitting IAM resolution for my enterprise?
Contemplate: 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 identification and entry administration software program?
The most effective IAM instrument relies on your group’s wants, funds, and current infrastructure. Well-liked IAM options embrace Okta, Microsoft Entra ID (previously Azure AD), JumpCloud, Cicso Duo, Ping Id, IBM Safety Confirm, and ForgeRock. It is best to match options, integrations, and safety capabilities earlier than selecting.
IAM prepared
After digging into the most effective IAM software program options, I’ve come to 1 conclusion: safety ought to work with folks, not towards them. The strongest authentication insurance policies on the earth gained’t assist if workers discover methods round them out of frustration. On the identical time, a simple login expertise means nothing if the fallacious particular person beneficial properties entry. That’s the balancing act each IT and safety staff faces, and the fitting 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 offers you flexibility throughout totally different platforms. Salesforce Id is sensible if Salesforce runs your online business, and Cisco Duo retains issues easy with sturdy 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 preserving entry clean for the fitting folks. So, Ppick the fitting 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 identification administration methods to seek out the most effective match to your safety wants.
