5 Greatest Identification and Entry Administration Software program I Belief

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 workers reusing weak passwords, phishing makes an attempt focusing on credentials, and the rising net of SaaS functions, protecting accounts safe with out irritating customers is less complicated mentioned than completed.

Throw in distant work, third-party integrations, and compliance audits into the combo, and it’s no shock that IAM looks like an limitless recreation of catch-up. The problem isn’t nearly safety—it’s about discovering the appropriate IAM device that truly 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 to 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 completed all this analysis, so that you don’t must. I spoke with IAM consultants, reviewed G2 experiences, and gathered insights from my very own IT and safety crew (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 usefulness.

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 perfect match to 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 test. 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 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 styles and sizes, from cloud-focused ones to on-premises options and from extremely customizable techniques for big enterprises to easy choices for rising groups.

From my analysis and conversations with IAM consultants, I’ve realized that the perfect IAM software program isn’t nearly safety. It is concerning the steadiness between safe consumer authentication, granular entry controls for imposing the least privilege, and clean integration with present techniques.

What makes the perfect id and entry administration software program: My standards

Based mostly 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, but it surely 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 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 threat. 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 conduct, location, and machine to set off further 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 provide robust 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 conduct 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 essential, lowering long-term publicity to delicate techniques.
• Integration with present 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 must also join with HR and ITSM techniques 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 device—it’s a compliance requirement. I centered on options that provide built-in audit logs, detailed compliance reporting, and governance options like entry opinions 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 adaptability for rising organizations: A superb 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 techniques that enable them to automate workflows and combine with different safety instruments as an alternative of forcing a inflexible, one-size-fits-all method.
• 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 in depth 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. One of the best options scale back friction whereas nonetheless imposing robust safety insurance policies.

I needed 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 device towards this guidelines and cross-referencing it with knowledgeable insights, real-world suggestions, and AI-driven evaluation evaluation, I recognized the highest 5 IAM options.

The checklist beneath comprises real consumer opinions 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 components.
• 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 opinions could have been edited for readability.  

1. Microsoft Entra ID

In relation to IAM options, Microsoft Entra ID (previously Azure Energetic Listing) is commonly 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 for my part. If an organization is already utilizing Microsoft companies like Azure, Dynamics 365, Intune, or Energy Platform, Entra ID comes included free of charge. Meaning there’s built-in assist for MFA, limitless SSO throughout SaaS apps, fundamental reporting, and self-service password adjustments for cloud customers with none further price. For companies already within the Microsoft ecosystem, it is a large 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 strong system for unified entry management and endpoint administration.

Certainly one of its largest strengths is conditional entry for my part. IT groups love the flexibility to implement safety insurance policies primarily based on consumer conduct, location, and threat degree. This implies customers logging in from an unknown machine is perhaps prompted for MFA, whereas trusted customers on managed gadgets can entry assets with out pointless friction. It’s a wise method that balances safety with usability.

I additionally discovered that we might join on-premise Energetic Listing with Entra ID utilizing Entra Join and simplify entry administration throughout cloud and on-premise. I believe 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 largest 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 setting, 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 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 when you’re already utilizing Microsoft companies, 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 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. In case you’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 contemplate, particularly if you’re already within the Microsoft ecosystem and are cloud-native.

What I dislike about Microsoft Entra ID:

• From what I noticed, organising Entra ID isn’t precisely a clean experience. In case you’re not already locked into Microsoft’s ecosystem, count on some further effort and time to get all the pieces configured correctly.
• Based mostly on my analysis, licensing price is one other ache level. Whereas the free tier covers the fundamentals, a few 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 aren’t accustomed to 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 might 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 need to transfer past conventional on-prem id administration.

What I like about it’s that JumpCloud follows an open listing method 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 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 cell machine administration (MDM), listing companies, 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 techniques.

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 company.

One other factor I’ve discovered is that JumpCloud has an in depth 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 incorrect, buyer assist has a strong status.

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 must step in each time a consumer will get locked out. There’s additionally room for enchancment in present options like distant help, which is a bit clunky to work with.

Additionally, from my perspective, JumpCloud does provide MDM, however when you’re managing a big fleet of gadgets, particularly in Apple-heavy environments, it won’t have the identical degree of granular management and automation that Jamf or different MDM gives.

That mentioned, I would say JumpCloud’s energy lies in its unified method of integrating IAM, listing companies, and MDM right into a single platform. In case you’re in search of an all-in-one resolution relatively than a standalone enterprise-grade possibility of IAM and MDM, Jumpcloud remains to be a strong selection, particularly for small and medium companies, even at a better value level.

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 consumer will get locked out, IT has to step in, which feels pointless when different IAM options provide self-service choices.
• I additionally assume sure options want enchancment. For example, 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, Consumer orchestration, and governance capabilities, that are essential on this period of enterprise safety administration.“

– Jumpcloud Assessment,  Gangadhara S. 

3. Okta

From my expertise, Okta is among 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—similar to JumpCloud, and I’ve discovered it to be an awesome 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 effectively Okta integrates with different instruments. Whether or not you’re working Microsoft, Google Workspace, AWS, or managing numerous 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 affords one of many smoothest SSO experiences on the market. 

Whereas it has Okta Confirm as a strong built-in possibility for MFA, I discover it beneficial 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 affords 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 affords 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 companies are wanted.

Whereas Okta is highly effective, getting it absolutely 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. Undoubtedly, Okta affords good documentation and assist, but it surely 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 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 plenty of settings to fine-tune, and the training curve can really feel steep when 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 completed.
• Price could be a problem for smaller companies, for my part. With a $1,500 annual contract minimal, it may 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 plenty of time and effort.” 

– Okta Assessment, Qual A. 

4. Salesforce Platform

I will be sincere 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 spotted that Salesforce Identification, supplied by way of the Salesforce Platform, is definitely a strong IAM possibility—particularly if your enterprise is already working on Salesforce.

It has all of the necessities I’d count on 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 Energetic Listing for consumer administration, you need to use Identification 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 knowledge entry. Utilizing linked apps and OAuth, you’ll be able to 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, id monitoring companies assist monitor and handle who’s accessing techniques, companies, and knowledge, which is a giant 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 shoppers to trace them throughout all channels. Prospects can self-register, log in, and securely entry apps with a single id. One of the best half is that it’s absolutely customizable to suit an organization’s branding and workflows, making Salesforce not simply an IAM resolution but in addition a strong Buyer Identification and Entry Administration (CIAM) and advertising and marketing device on the identical time.

Whereas Salesforce Identification has lots going for it, there are a number of areas the place I see some challenges. Setting all the pieces up isn’t as simple as you’d expecte—there are plenty of configurations, permissions, and integrations to fine-tune, which might 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 all the pieces working easily.

Additionally, primarily based on my observations, the platform can really feel sluggish, particularly when coping with giant datasets or advanced workflows. It’s not a dealbreaker, however when you’re anticipating immediate entry and quick response occasions on a regular basis, this is perhaps one thing to bear in mind.

After which there’s pricing. In my view, 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 probably the most budget-friendly possibility.

My suggestion can be to make use of Salesforce Identification if you’re already closely invested within the platform, particularly if you’re utilizing considered one of Skilled, Enterprise, Limitless, and Efficiency Version of their CRM software program. 

What I dislike about Salesforce Platform:

• To me, getting Salesforce Identification absolutely configured takes time. There are plenty of settings to tweak, permissions to handle, and integrations to arrange, which might make onboarding extra sophisticated in comparison with devoted IAM options like Okta or JumpCloud. Efficiency might be sluggish –
• As I see it, sure processes really feel sluggish, particularly when working with giant datasets or advanced workflows on Salesforce. So, when you’re anticipating quick response occasions throughout the board, this is perhaps 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, if you find yourself coping with great amount of knowledge, the experiences and dashboard can run slowly and typically governor restrict can prohibit the advanced operation.”

– Salesforce Platform Assessment, Dhruv G.

5. Cisco Duo

Once I first explored Cisco Duo, I used to be impressed by its simple method 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 straightforward 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 at all times 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 techniques.

What I like probably the most is that Duo affords a free plan, which isn’t one thing you see usually with IAM options. You possibly can 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 funds constraints. Plus, it helps you to check Duo’s options earlier than committing to a paid plan, which is at all times a plus.

One challenge I’ve seen is that its offline entry is proscribed, which might be irritating for customers who have to authenticate however don’t have an web connection. I additionally assume there’s room for enchancment in Duo’s UI and design. Whereas it’s useful, it might 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 selection for organizations searching for dependable MFA and SSO options with seamless integration capabilities

What I dislike about Cisco Duo:

• Based mostly on my analysis, if a consumer doesn’t have an web connection, Duo doesn’t provide some ways to authenticate, which could be 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, but it surely’s not probably the most fashionable or intuitive interface I’ve seen. A refresh would make the expertise smoother, particularly for IT groups managing giant deployments.

What G2 customers dislike about Cisco Duo: 

“The arrange of on-line and offline might be complicated for finish customers. Additionally, if time desyncs, it turns into a HUGE downside.”

– Cisco Duo Assessment, Jonathan M.

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, for my part:

• 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 robust 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.

Continuously requested questions (FAQ) on IAM software program

1. Why is IAM essential for companies?

IAM enhances safety, reduces the danger of knowledge 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.
• Consumer 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, equivalent to system directors.

4. Is IAM software program cloud-based or on-premises?

IAM options might be:

• Cloud-based: Hosted by a supplier, scalable, and best 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 important part 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 price?

IAM pricing varies primarily based on options, deployment sort, and the variety of customers. Some distributors provide subscription-based fashions, whereas others present enterprise licensing. Further prices could embrace implementation, assist, and compliance options.

7. How can I select the appropriate IAM resolution for my enterprise?

Take into account: Your group’s measurement and safety want Integration capabilities along with your present instruments, Compliance necessities, Scalability, ease of use, and Help for contemporary safety practices (e.g., Zero Belief, MFA, adaptive authentication).

8. Which is the perfect id and entry administration software program?

One of the best IAM device will depend on your group’s wants, funds, and present infrastructure. Standard IAM options embrace Okta, Microsoft Entra ID (previously Azure AD), JumpCloud, Cicso Duo, Ping Identification, IBM Safety Confirm, and ForgeRock. It is best to match options, integrations, and safety capabilities earlier than selecting.

IAM prepared

After digging into the perfect IAM software program options, I’ve come to at least one conclusion: safety ought to work with folks, not towards them. The strongest authentication insurance policies on the planet received’t assist if workers discover methods round them out of frustration. On the identical time, a straightforward login expertise means nothing if the incorrect individual good points entry. That’s the balancing act each IT and safety crew faces, and the appropriate IAM device makes all of the distinction.

If your organization is deep in Microsoft’s ecosystem, Entra ID is a robust selection. JumpCloud and Okta provides you flexibility throughout totally different platforms. Salesforce Identification is sensible if Salesforce runs your enterprise, and Cisco Duo retains issues easy with robust MFA and integrations. Every device has its place—however the perfect 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 enterprise from actual threats whereas protecting entry clean for the appropriate folks. So, Ppick the appropriate 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 techniques to seek out the perfect match to your safety wants.