5 Greatest Id and Entry Administration Software program I Belief

In my years writing about cybersecurity, I’ve realized one common reality: 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 internet of SaaS purposes, retaining accounts safe with out irritating customers is simpler stated than performed.

Throw in distant work, third-party integrations, and compliance audits into the combination, and it’s no shock that IAM appears like an limitless sport of catch-up. The problem isn’t nearly safety—it’s about discovering the best IAM software that truly works with out including complexity to each day operations.

In case you’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 have you learnt which one actually delivers? 

I’ve performed all this analysis, so that you don’t need to. I spoke with IAM consultants, reviewed G2 studies, and gathered insights from my very own IT and safety group (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 enable you discover the perfect match to your group.

5 greatest identification and entry administration software program I like to recommend  

I’ve seen firsthand how essential 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 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 cut back danger with out turning each login try right into a assist ticket.

I’ve seen my fair proportion of IAM software program in all sizes and styles, from cloud-focused ones to on-premises options and from extremely customizable methods for big enterprises to easy choices for rising groups.

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

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

Primarily based on every part I’ve realized, right here’s the guidelines I used to guage the highest IAM resolution:

• Sturdy authentication with out friction: Authentication must be strong, nevertheless it shouldn’t create pointless complications. If logging in appears 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 danger. Single sign-on (SSO) was one other large issue because it reduces login fatigue whereas sustaining safety. Threat-based authentication additionally stood out—options that analyze habits, location, and system to set off further safety when wanted scored increased on my listing.
• 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 supply 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 system sort, location, and login habits to make smarter entry selections. Simply-in-time entry was one other function that stood out, limiting high-privilege entry solely when it’s completely obligatory, decreasing long-term publicity to delicate methods.
• 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 identification suppliers like Lively Listing and Azure AD, in addition to SIEM platforms for real-time authentication monitoring. IAM must also 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 software—it’s a compliance requirement. I targeted on options that supply built-in audit logs, detailed compliance reporting, and governance options like entry evaluations and certification workflows. Assembly business requirements like SOC 2, ISO 27001, HIPAA, and GDPR was one other main issue. Safety leaders want IAM instruments that don’t simply assist them safe identities but additionally make compliance audits much less of a nightmare.
• Scalability and adaptability for rising organizations: A very good 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 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 continually unlock accounts simply because somebody forgot a password. The most effective options cut back friction whereas nonetheless imposing sturdy safety insurance policies.

I wished to guage IAM options from a security-first perspective whereas additionally contemplating how IT groups and workers work together with them each day. After checking every software towards this guidelines and cross-referencing it with professional insights, real-world suggestions, and AI-driven assessment evaluation, I recognized the highest 5 IAM options.

The listing under incorporates real person evaluations 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 components.
• 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 knowledge.

*This knowledge was pulled from G2 in 2025. Some evaluations could have been edited for readability.  

1. Microsoft Entra ID

Relating to IAM options, Microsoft Entra ID (previously Azure Lively Listing) is commonly one of many first identify that comes up—and for good cause. It’s deeply built-in into the Microsoft ecosystem.

And right here’s what makes it much more interesting in my view. If an organization is already utilizing Microsoft providers like Azure, Dynamics 365, Intune, or Energy Platform, Entra ID comes included without spending a dime. Meaning there’s built-in assist for MFA, limitless SSO throughout SaaS apps, fundamental reporting, and self-service password modifications for cloud customers with none further price. For companies already within the Microsoft ecosystem, it is 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 sturdy system for unified entry management and endpoint administration.

Certainly one of its largest strengths is conditional entry in my view. 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 system may be prompted for MFA, whereas trusted customers on managed units can entry assets with out pointless friction. It’s a wise 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 significantly useful for organizations transitioning to the cloud however nonetheless sustaining on-premises infrastructure.

However that stated, 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 surroundings, issues are likely to fall into place extra easily. However for firms with a combined IT infrastructure or these transitioning from a non-Microsoft setup, getting every part correctly configured can take time. 

Licensing prices are one other factor that stood out to me. Entra ID does include a free tier for those who’re already utilizing Microsoft providers, however the extra superior security measures beneath identification safety, governance, and privileged entry administration are solely out there in higher-tier licenses like Entra ID P2 or the Suite. That’s the place issues get difficult in my view.

For smaller organizations that truly want these options however don’t have the price range for premium licensing, it may be a tricky name. In case you’re searching for a fully-featured IAM resolution with out spending further, you actually need to 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 dislike about Microsoft Entra ID:

• From what I noticed, organising Entra ID isn’t precisely a easy journey. In case you’re not already locked into Microsoft’s ecosystem, anticipate some further effort and time to get every part configured correctly.
• Primarily based on my analysis, licensing price is one other ache level. Whereas the free tier covers the fundamentals, among 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 accustomed to Microsoft merchandise will face difficulties in understanding the combination 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 Evaluate, 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 system 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 positively 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 data 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 mistaken, 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 suggests IT groups need to step in each time a person 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 supply MDM, however for those who’re managing a big fleet of units, 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 might say JumpCloud’s energy lies in its unified strategy of integrating IAM, listing providers, and MDM right into a single platform. In case you’re searching for an all-in-one resolution relatively 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 worth 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 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 example, distant Help feels clunky, and whereas MDM works, it doesn’t supply the identical granular management and automation as devoted instruments like Jamf.

What G2 customers dislike about JumpCloud:

“Jumpcloud has but to develop superior options like self-service for Account unlocks, Person orchestration, and governance capabilities, that are obligatory on this period of enterprise safety administration.“

– Jumpcloud Evaluate,  Gangadhara S. 

3. Okta

From my expertise, Okta is without doubt one of the most versatile and scalable IAM options, particularly for organizations that want sturdy safety, seamless integrations, and superior authentication controls. Okta can also be vendor-neutral—similar to JumpCloud, and I’ve discovered it to be an amazing 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 basically 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 purposes, 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 stable built-in choice for MFA, I discover it worthwhile 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 easy and environment friendly and makes managing a number of apps a lot simpler.

Now, there are some downsides. Whereas Okta is filled with enterprise-grade safety and IAM options, I’ve seen that pricing is usually a hurdle for smaller companies and startups. Okta 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 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, nevertheless it nonetheless takes effort and time to fine-tune every part 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 every part configured takes time. There are plenty of settings to fine-tune, and the training curve can really feel steep for those who’re new to IAM. As soon as it’s working, it’s nice—however don’t anticipate to flip a swap and be performed.
• Value is usually a problem for smaller companies, in my view. With a $1,500 annual contract minimal, it could actually really feel out of attain for startups or small IT groups that solely want a couple 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 person synchronization will take plenty of time and effort.” 

– Okta Evaluate, Qual A. 

4. Salesforce Platform

I will be sincere and admit right here that once I consider IAM options, Salesforce isn’t the primary identify that involves thoughts. I imply, they’re recognized for his or her buyer relationship administration (CRM) system. That was it for me. However after digging in, I spotted that Salesforce Id, provided by the Salesforce Platform, is definitely a stable IAM choice—particularly if your small business is already working on Salesforce.

It has all of the necessities I’d anticipate 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 utilize Id Hook up with handle Salesforce accounts.That’s an enormous win for usability and safety, in my view.

I like the extent of management Salesforce gives over knowledge entry. Utilizing related apps and OAuth, you possibly can 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 observe and handle who’s accessing methods, providers, and knowledge, which is a giant win for safety groups searching for higher visibility into person exercise.

 I additionally discovered Buyer Id to be a powerful 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 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 additionally a strong Buyer Id and Entry Administration (CIAM) and advertising software on the similar time.

Whereas Salesforce Id has so much going for it, there are a couple of areas the place I see some challenges. Setting every part up isn’t as simple as you’d expecte—there are plenty 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 bit of a bigger system, so it takes further effort to get every part 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 for those who’re anticipating instantaneous entry and quick response occasions on a regular basis, this may be one thing to bear in mind.

After which there’s pricing. In my view, Salesforce Id is smart for big companies and enterprises already invested within the Salesforce ecosystem. However, for small to mid-sized firms, it may not be probably the most budget-friendly choice.

My advice could be to make use of Salesforce Id if you’re already closely invested within the platform, particularly if you’re utilizing one in all Skilled, Enterprise, Limitless, and Efficiency Version of their CRM software program. 

What I dislike about Salesforce Platform:

• To me, getting Salesforce Id totally configured takes time. There are plenty 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 will be gradual –
• As I see it, sure processes really feel sluggish, particularly when working with massive datasets or complicated workflows on Salesforce. So, for those who’re anticipating quick response occasions 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 vitally costly, espically for small bussiness and startups. As a developer, if you end up coping with great amount of information, the studies and dashboard can run slowly and generally governor restrict can prohibit the complicated operation.”

– Salesforce Platform Evaluate, Dhruv G.

5. Cisco Duo

Once I first explored Cisco Duo, I used to be impressed by its simple strategy to safety. What actually stood out to me is how easy but efficient it’s. MFA, SSO, and adaptive authentication are at their core, and in contrast to some IAM instruments that really feel bloated with options you’ll by no means use, Duo retains issues targeted and simple to handle.

What stands out to me is how 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 purposes 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 system classes throughout purposes. Meaning fewer repeated logins and much less friction for workers who want fast entry to a number of methods.

What I like probably 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 price range constraints. Plus, it allows you to check Duo’s options earlier than committing to a paid plan, which is all the time a plus.

One situation I’ve observed is that its offline entry is proscribed, which will be irritating for customers who must authenticate however don’t have an web connection. I additionally suppose there’s room for enchancment in Duo’s UI and design. Whereas it’s practical, it may very well be extra intuitive and fashionable. Duo feels a bit utilitarian compared to different platforms. A extra polished interface would make the expertise even higher.

Irrespective of those cons, Cisco Duo is a stable alternative for organizations looking for dependable MFA and SSO options with seamless integration capabilities

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 is usually a downside for individuals who journey or work remotely in low-connectivity areas.
• From what I noticed, the UI feels slightly outdated – It really works, nevertheless it’s not probably 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 downside.”

– Cisco Duo Evaluate, Jonathan M.

Now, there are a couple of extra choices, as talked about under, that did not make it to this listing however are nonetheless price contemplating, in my view:

• AWS Verified Entry: Greatest for securing AWS environments with Zero Belief entry controls.
• Google Cloud Id: Greatest for organizations deep within the Google ecosystem needing seamless IAM.
• Oracle Id Cloud Service: Greatest for hybrid cloud IAM with sturdy enterprise integrations.
• Rippling: Greatest for combining IAM with HR and payroll administration in a single platform.
• IBM Confirm: Greatest for AI-driven identification safety and superior menace detection.
• SailPoint: Greatest for enterprise-level identification governance and compliance administration.

Incessantly requested questions (FAQ) on IAM software program

1. Why is IAM essential for companies?

IAM enhances safety, reduces the danger of information breaches, streamlines person entry, and ensures compliance with business laws (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 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 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 will be:

• Cloud-based: Hosted by a supplier, scalable, and superb 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 vital part of Zero Belief by imposing identification 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 supply subscription-based fashions, whereas others present enterprise licensing. Extra prices could embrace implementation, assist, and compliance options.

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

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

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

The most effective IAM software will depend on your group’s wants, price range, and present 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 perfect IAM software program options, I’ve come to 1 conclusion: safety ought to work with individuals, not towards them. The strongest authentication insurance policies on the planet gained’t assist if workers discover methods round them out of frustration. On the similar time, a simple login expertise means nothing if the mistaken particular person positive aspects entry. That’s the balancing act each IT and safety group faces, and the best IAM software 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 smart if Salesforce runs your small business, and Cisco Duo retains issues easy with sturdy MFA and integrations. Every software 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 small business from actual threats whereas retaining entry easy for the best individuals. So, Ppick the best 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 search out the perfect match to your safety wants.