Digital Labyrinth: 25 Best Identity And Access Management Solutions Of 2024
10 Best Identity And Access Management Solutions Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 25 tools reviewed.
Our one-on-one guidance will help you find the perfect fit.
Identity access management systems (IAM) are essential for cybersecurity, combining automation with solid password management. These systems streamline user accounts, mobile device control, and endpoint security, simplifying passwordless access and providing IT with cloud applications and precise security policies.
Identity management solutions address two critical pain points: ensuring rigorous certifications protect digital gateways and enable a streamlined process for shaping and enforcing them, turning a digital workspace into a safer and more efficient environment.
What Is An Identity And Access Management Solution?
Identity and access management solutions (IAM) are frameworks that streamline and secure the process of granting authorized users access to specific resources in an organization. These systems manage user identities, implement identity-as-a-service, establish admin roles, secure cloud IDaaS solutions, and implement zero-trust policies to ensure that the right people access the right resources for valid purposes.
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Typically used by IT teams in enterprises, IAM solutions help safeguard digital assets, monitor user activities, and maintain regulatory compliance. Their functions span from simple password resets to intricate workflows in multi-cloud environments, ensuring that a company's digital boundaries remain both flexible and secure.
Below is a list of additional identity and access management solutions that I shortlisted but did not make it to the top 12. Definitely worth checking them out.
Best Identity And Access Management Solutions Summary
| Tools | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Cakewalk | Pricing upon request | Website |
| Scalefusion | Pricing upon request | Website |
| ManageEngine ADManager Plus | From $7/user/month (min 5 seats). | Website |
| JumpCloud | From $2/device/month | Website |
| Ping Identity | No details | Website |
| Thales SafeNet Trusted Access | From $6/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| Microsoft Entra Verified ID | Pricing for Microsoft Entra Verified ID is upon request. | Website |
| IBM Security Verify | Pricing upon request | Website |
| AWS Identity and Access Management (IAM) | Pricing upon request | Website |
| Auth0 | From $23/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
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Compare SoftwareBest Identity And Access Management Solutions Reviews
Cakewalk is an identity and access management solution designed to help your team manage employee access to various applications. It offers visibility into all apps used within your organization and provides control over access permissions.
Why I Picked Cakewalk: I like its ability to discover all applications your employees use, even those not integrated with single sign-on (SSO). This feature helps you uncover shadow IT and regain control over your entire app stack, reducing security risks associated with unauthorized software usage. Another valuable feature is Cakewalk's automated workflows for onboarding and offboarding employees. By automating these processes, you can ensure that new team members receive the appropriate access quickly, and departing employees have their access removed promptly.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include customizable approval flows that let you govern access to each application and permission level, ensuring that only authorized users have access. Additionally, Cakewalk offers real-time alerts for every unapproved access, helping you maintain security and compliance. Integrations include ADP, Workday, Sage, HiBob, UKG, BambooHR, Zoho, Remote, and Personio.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Offers real-time alerts for unauthorized access attempts
- Provides comprehensive visibility into all applications
- Supports user provisioning and deprovisioning processes
Cons:
- Limited integration options with certain niche applications
- May require time to fully implement and customize workflows
Scalefusion OneIdP is a cloud-based identity and access management solution that secures digital identities and corporate resources. It integrates Unified Endpoint Management (UEM) and Identity Access Management (IAM) for enhanced security, user experience, and centralized visibility.
Why I Picked Scalefusion: When evaluating different IAM solutions, Scalefusion OneIdP distinguishes itself with its comprehensive federated identity management (FIM) and robust IAM capabilities, including user provisioning and de-provisioning, role-based access control (RBAC), and identity federation. It empowers organizations to streamline user lifecycle management, ensuring they have the appropriate access rights throughout their usage. It also leverages detailed reporting and analytics, enhancing visibility into user activities and access patterns.
Standout features & integrations:
Other features include its advanced conditional access management, which evaluates device trust, network trust, location trust, and protected IP ranges. It also simplifies Active Directory management tasks for both on-premises and cloud environments, while reducing shadow IT with its Just-In-Time Admin feature. Additionally, the platform offers powerful multi-factor authentication (MFA) and single sign-on (SSO) capabilities, ensuring secure access to a connected workforce ecosystem. The software connects with a range of third-party tools like Apple Business Manager, Okta, Azure AD, Office 365 AD, Google Workspace, and Jira.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Wide range of powerful integrations
- Adaptive risk-based authentication rules
- Sophisticated access lifecycle management
Cons:
- Steeper learning curve for new users
- Some advanced features can become overwhelming for small businesses
ManageEngine ADManager Plus is a comprehensive software designed for managing Active Directory (AD) environments, offering a range of features that simplify user and group management as well as reporting.
Why I Picked ManageEngine ADManager Plus: One of the most notable aspects of ADManager Plus is its ability to simplify Active Directory (AD) management tasks. This includes user provisioning, de-provisioning, and administration, which are essential for maintaining an organized and secure IT environment. The tool also supports bulk user creation, allowing administrators to create multiple user accounts in just a few minutes.
Standout features & integrations:
ManageEngine ADManager Plus excels with other features like workflow automation, which automates repetitive tasks and approval processes. Another standout feature is its role-based access control, which enhances security by implementing granular access controls based on user roles. Integrations include ServiceDesk Plus, ServiceNow, Zendesk, Freshservice, Jira, Zoho People, BambooHR, Ultipro, and Workday.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Automates repetitive tasks
- Bulk creation, modification, deletion, and restoration of Active Directory objects
- Robust role delegation features,
Cons:
- Potential integration challenges with certain third-party applications
- The tool offers limited customization options for advanced users
JumpCloud is an efficient Directory-as-a-Service platform that manages users across various systems, applications, and networks. Its emphasis on cross-platform compatibility ensures that businesses can streamline user access across multiple systems regardless of their platform.
Why I Picked JumpCloud: In determining the right identity management tools, JumpCloud stood out primarily because of its comprehensive cross-platform capability. I chose it because it offers unparalleled versatility in managing users across various operating systems and devices, distinguishing itself from competitors. For businesses that operate on diverse platforms and require coherent user management, JumpCloud emerges as the top choice.
Standout features & integrations:
JumpCloud's features, such as centralized directory services, multi-factor authentication, and device management, offer a holistic approach to user management. Furthermore, it integrates effortlessly with numerous applications and platforms, from Windows and macOS to Linux, as well as SaaS applications and IaaS providers.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Centralized directory services simplify user management
- Robust multi-factor authentication enhances security
- Comprehensive cross-platform support
Cons:
- Some advanced features are restricted to premium plans
- Custom integrations could be challenging for niche software
- Initial setup might require a bit of a learning curve
Ping Identity offers a robust identity platform that ensures secure and easy user experiences. A standout in their suite is their multi-factor authentication (MFA) prowess, making them an optimal choice for those keen on strengthening their security layers, fitting with the title 'Best for multi-factor authentication.'
Why I Picked Ping Identity: While evaluating various tools, the sheer strength of Ping Identity's MFA capabilities caught my attention. I determined it to be one of the most reliable platforms for this security aspect. The depth of their MFA offering, from biometrics to one-time passwords, makes them distinct in a crowded marketplace. With security breaches becoming more sophisticated, it's clear why Ping Identity is the best for multi-factor authentication.
Standout features & integrations:
Beyond its renowned MFA, Ping Identity offers adaptive authentication, single sign-on, and intelligent API security. It's designed to evolve with changing security needs, making it future-ready. Integration-wise, Ping Identity easily connects with many enterprise applications, cloud platforms, and infrastructure setups, ensuring a cohesive security environment.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Broad enterprise application integration range
- Strong adaptive authentication capabilities
- Comprehensive MFA options including biometrics
Cons:
- Deployment can be intricate for larger organizations
- Some advanced features necessitate higher pricing tiers
- Might require a steeper learning curve for beginners
Thales SafeNet Trusted Access is an excellent identity and access management solution that prioritizes secure authentication and integrates seamlessly with various security hardware.
Why I Picked Thales SafeNet Trusted Access: Thales SafeNet Trusted Access stood out to me for its strong emphasis on hardware security in access management. This hardware-focused approach led me to determine it's the best choice for organizations that leverage or plan to deploy hardware-based authentication mechanisms.
Standout features & integrations:
Thales SafeNet offers features like secure single sign-on (SSO), adaptive authentication, and many multi-factor authentication methods. Its ability to integrate easily with hardware tokens, smart cards, and biometric devices is remarkable. On the integration front, it connects well with enterprise applications, on-premises environments, and cloud platforms, ensuring a harmonized security infrastructure.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Adaptive authentication that responds to varying threat levels
- Comprehensive set of multi-factor authentication methods
- Robust hardware integration capabilities
Cons:
- Some users report occasional latency in the authentication process
- Not the most intuitive user interface
- Might be complex for those unfamiliar with hardware security
Microsoft Entra Verified ID is an identity verification solution that integrates easily with the extensive Microsoft suite. Tailored to ensure flawless compatibility, it's the optimal choice for businesses relying on Microsoft applications for their daily operations.
Why I Picked Microsoft Entra Verified ID: Microsoft Entra Verified ID caught my attention during my evaluation process due to its deep integration capabilities with Microsoft's suite of products. Its design specifically for compatibility with Microsoft tools sets it apart from other identity verification solutions. Given this distinct compatibility focus, it is the premier choice for businesses deeply entrenched in the Microsoft ecosystem.
Standout features & integrations:
Microsoft Entra Verified ID boasts multi-factor authentication, secure single sign-on, and adaptive access policies. Additionally, its integrations are primarily centered on Microsoft products, ensuring that tools like Microsoft 365, Azure, and Dynamics 365 work together without hitches.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Multi-factor authentication adds an additional layer of security
- Secure single sign-on ensures ease of access across tools
- Tailored for exceptional compatibility with Microsoft products
Cons:
- Requires a Microsoft ecosystem for optimal utility
- Some businesses may find its features too Microsoft-specific
- Might not be the first choice for non-Microsoft-centric businesses
IBM Security Verify is a comprehensive identity and access management solution that provides businesses with intelligent insights. Leveraging artificial intelligence offers nuanced understandings of user behaviors and risks, aligning perfectly with organizations seeking advanced, data-driven insights for their security needs.
Why I Picked IBM Security Verify: In my process of choosing the right tools, IBM Security Verify emerged as a leader in AI-driven insights. Among the many solutions available, it stands out due to its deep integration of artificial intelligence, making it adept at understanding user behaviors and potential threats. I firmly believe this tool is the pinnacle for businesses prioritizing AI-driven insights in their identity management strategy.
Standout features & integrations:
IBM Security Verify excels with features like risk-based authentication, adaptive access policies, and fraud detection, all improved by AI. The platform also offers integrations with various enterprise solutions, from cloud services to on-premises applications, ensuring it fits smoothly within various business infrastructures.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Features such as fraud detection add another layer of security
- Versatile integrations with both cloud and on-premises solutions
- Strong AI-driven risk assessments and insights
Cons:
- Some features might be too advanced for smaller businesses
- Pricing structure might be complex for some organizations
- May require a learning curve for those unfamiliar with IBM platforms
AWS Identity and Access Management (IAM) is a part of Amazon Web Services (AWS) and facilitates secure control access to AWS resources. It allows administrators to assign roles, permissions, and policies, ensuring that users and applications have the appropriate access within the Amazon ecosystem.
Why I Picked AWS Identity and Access Management (IAM): While selecting tools that align with specific ecosystems, AWS IAM consistently appeared as a robust solution. I chose it primarily for its tight integration with the vast range of Amazon services. For businesses deeply rooted in the Amazon ecosystem, AWS IAM is an essential tool for ensuring streamlined and secure access management.
Standout features & integrations:
AWS IAM boasts granular access controls, flexible role-based access management, and multifactor authentication for improved security. More crucially, it offers deep integration with many AWS services, including Amazon S3, EC2, and Redshift, ensuring cohesive identity management within the AWS infrastructure.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Multifactor authentication options bolster security
- Flexible role-based access management promotes operational efficiency
- Deep integration within the AWS ecosystem
Cons:
- Some features can incur additional costs
- Lack of direct integrations outside the AWS ecosystem
- Might be complex for those unfamiliar with the AWS platform
Auth0 is a platform for authentication and authorization that provides developers with resources and tools to create customized authentication experiences. It's known for being developer-friendly and highly customizable.
Why I Picked Auth0: In selecting identity management tools, Auth0 immediately stood out because of its emphasis on catering to developers. Most platforms provide ready-made solutions, but Auth0's power is its adaptability. I chose it precisely because it allows developers to mold their authentication process according to their application's requirements. When considering customization capabilities, it's no wonder Auth0 emerged as the best pick for developer-friendly customization.
Standout features & integrations:
Auth0 shines with its adaptable authentication flows, versatile SDKs, and login box (Lock). Furthermore, the platform supports multi-factor authentication and provides actionable insights through its logging and reporting. In terms of integrations, Auth0 offers smooth connections with a myriad of third-party apps, and SaaS platforms and can be used across various development stacks, adding to its versatility.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Streamlined third-party integrations
- Offers extensive SDKs catering to different tech stacks
- Adaptable authentication flows for diverse applications
Cons:
- Initial setup can be time-consuming for complex use cases
- Some advanced features require moving to higher pricing tiers
- Might be overwhelming for non-developers
Other Noteworthy Identity And Access Management Solutions
- Akamai Identity Cloud
Best for global content delivery integration
- WSO2 Identity Server
Best for open-source flexibility
- Okta Workforce Identity Cloud
Best for workforce-specific solutions
- ForgeRock
Best for identity lifecycle management
- NetIQ Identity Manager
Best for large enterprise scalability
- OneLogin
Good for streamlined cloud-based identity management
- Frontegg
Good for rapid SaaS application development
- Rippling
Good for comprehensive HR and IT management
- FusionAuth
Good for customizable identity and access
- Jumio
Good for online identity verification services
- SailPoint
Good for AI-driven identity governance
- RSA Identity and Access Management
Good for token-based secure access
- StrongDM
Good for granular permissions management
- Avatier
Good for self-service identity tasks
- Azure ExpressRoute
Good for private Microsoft cloud connectivity
Other Identity And Access Management Solutions-Related Reviews
Selection Criteria For Choosing Identity And Access Management Solutions
Exploring identity and access management tools is crucial to ensure they meet current requirements and scale with an organization's evolving needs. Choosing the best IAM system with specific features is essential, as only a few truly cater to immediate and long-term business needs.
Core Functionality
- Authentication: Ability to verify user identities through passwords, biometric verification, and multi-factor authentication.
- Authorization: Assigning specific access rights to various users, ensuring they can access only the resources essential for their roles.
- Single Sign-On (SSO): Allows users to access multiple applications with one login credentials.
- User Lifecycle Management: Streamlining processes such as user provisioning, updating, and de-provisioning.
Key Features
- Role-Based Access Control (RBAC): Allows administrators to restrict system access based on organizational roles, ensuring that only the necessary users have access to specific resources.
- Policy Enforcement: Implementing, managing, and maintaining access policies, especially in a dynamic environment.
- Audit Trails and Reporting: Tools should have capabilities to track user activity and generate comprehensive reports, essential for compliance and security checks.
- Integration with Directory Services: Easy integration with enterprise directory services like Active Directory or LDAP.
- Federation: Capability to extend and manage identity across domains or different organizations.
Usability
- Intuitive Dashboard: A centralized dashboard that overviews all users, permissions, and activity logs, helping administrators manage access without diving deep into multiple sub-menus.
- Interactive Visualizations: IAM tools should offer a graphical representation of permissions and access matrices, making it easier for teams to understand and manage.
- Configurable Role-Based Access: While pre-defined roles can help kickstart the process, the software should allow for custom roles, easily configured as per organizational needs.
- Responsive Customer Support: Given the critical nature of identity and access, tools should offer rapid customer service, helping resolve issues or clarify doubts in real time.
- Onboarding Resources: Comprehensive training materials, tutorials, or webinars that can guide new users or help existing users get acquainted with any updates.
Most Common Questions Regarding Identity And Access Management Solutions (FAQs)
What are the primary benefits of using identity and access management solutions?
Identity and access management (IAM) tools can drastically enhance an organization’s security and operational efficiency. Some of the standout benefits include:
- Improved Security: IAM solutions ensure that only authorized individuals access specific resources, reducing the risk of data breaches.
- Regulatory Compliance: With in-built auditing and reporting tools, IAMs help organizations meet compliance requirements related to user access and data security.
- Streamlined User Management: Automated user provisioning and de-provisioning save time and reduce administrative overhead.
- Single Sign-On: Users can access multiple applications with a single set of credentials, simplifying the login process and improving user experience.
- Scalability: These tools are designed to scale, accommodating the addition of users or resources without compromising security.
How much do identity and access management solutions typically cost?
IAM tool pricing can vary widely based on the features offered, the size of the organization, and the vendor’s pricing model. Some standard pricing models include:
- Per User Pricing: Charges are based on the number of users added to the system.
- Tiered Pricing: Offers different sets of features at various price points.
- Freemium: Basic features are free, but advanced functionalities are expensive.
The typical range for IAM solutions can start from as low as $2/user/month to over $30/user/month for more comprehensive enterprise solutions.
Which are the cheapest and most expensive software in the market?
Based on general market trends, tools like FusionAuth tend to be on the more affordable end of the spectrum, while enterprise-focused solutions such as CyberArk Workforce Identity and Access Management (IAM) can be on the pricier side.
Are there any free IAM tool options available?
Yes, some tools offer a freemium model where basic features are available for free. FusionAuth, for instance, provides a free community version, though advanced features might require a paid plan. Always ensure to verify the limitations of free versions before committing to ensure they meet your organization’s needs.
Summary
Selecting the correct identity and access management solution is a pivotal decision that significantly impacts an organization's security and operational efficiency. With myriad options available, it's crucial to discern which tool aligns best with your specific requirements.
Key Takeaways:
- Define Your Needs: Before diving into the myriad of IAM options, clearly outline your organizational needs. Whether it's regulatory compliance, streamlined user management, or scalability, your priorities will guide your choice.
- Consider Pricing Models: IAM tools vary in pricing – from per-user costs to tiered and freemium models—factor in both your current needs and potential future growth when evaluating cost-effectiveness.
- Usability Matters: A tool's feature set is essential, but so is its usability. Ensure that the chosen solution offers an intuitive interface, easy onboarding, and strong customer support to ensure a smooth experience for administrators and end-users.
What Do You Think?
I've endeavored to provide a comprehensive list of the best available identity and access management solutions. However, the technology landscape is vast and ever-evolving. If you've encountered a tool that deserves mention or have personal experiences with one not covered here, please share it with me. Your insights and recommendations are invaluable in ensuring that my guide remains up-to-date and as informative as possible.