Best 9 Microsoft Entra ID Alternatives For Identity Management (2026)
We reviewed 10 Microsoft Entra ID alternatives on identity lifecycle management, SSO and MFA capabilities, and how well each supports environments that extend beyond Microsoft's ecosystem. Some offer capabilities Entra ID does not.
Written by
Mirren McDade
Technical Review by
Laura Iannini
Quick Summary
Microsoft Entra ID is the cloud identity platform included in Microsoft 365, well-suited for Microsoft-centric environments. Organizations with multi-cloud infrastructure or non-Microsoft SaaS estates often require alternatives. We reviewed 10 alternatives and found Thales SafeNet Trusted Access, Flexible Authentication, Centralized Control, and Real-World Experience to be the strongest on IAM depth, SSO capability, and hybrid environment support.
Microsoft Entra ID dominates enterprise identity conversations, particularly in Microsoft-first organizations. But not every team fits that template. Some organizations need identity platforms that work equally well across multi-cloud environments, others require federation depth that Entra ID doesn’t provide at accessible price points, and still others have already invested in competing ecosystems that make Entra ID redundant.
The real problem is that evaluating Entra ID alternatives feels risky. The platform is familiar, the licensing complexity is known, and the integrations are assumed. Switching identity platforms touches every application in your stack, every user workflow, and every compliance control. Get it wrong, and you’re explaining authentication delays to your entire organization.
We evaluated multiple alternatives across different architectural approaches: cloud-native platforms for hybrid environments, consolidated identity plus device management solutions, and specialized players for organizations with unique federation or compliance requirements. Each was tested for integration breadth, policy flexibility, admin complexity, and real-world deployment friction.
This guide identifies where each alternative excels and where the trade-offs might make sense for your specific environment.
Our Recommendations
Choosing an Entra ID alternative depends on your application portfolio, compliance posture, and tolerance for administrative complexity. Here’s how to narrow the options by use case.
Best For Hybrid Cloud Environments: Ping Identity and Oracle Cloud IAM both excel when your identity infrastructure spans on-premises systems, multiple cloud providers, and modern SaaS applications. Ping offers deeper integration flexibility with SAML, OIDC, and OAuth2; Oracle shines for teams already committed to the Oracle ecosystem with API-first administration.
Best For Enterprise Scale With Broadest Integration: Okta Workforce Identity Cloud is the market leader for a reason. With 7,000+ pre-built connectors, universal directory controls, and proven performance across thousands of organizations, it handles application portfolio complexity at any scale without custom integration work.
Best For Consolidating Identity And Device Management: JumpCloud combines directory services, SSO, MFA, and device management in a single cloud console.
Best For Active Directory-Centric Organizations: ManageEngine AD360 and Thales SafeNet Trusted Access both work well if your infrastructure remains AD-heavy but you need modern access controls. AD360 focuses on automation and compliance reporting; SafeNet emphasizes flexible authentication across cloud and on-premises resources.
Best For Passwordless-First Strategy: HYPR eliminates credential databases entirely through FIDO2-based authentication, addressing both security requirements and insider compliance mandates when you need phishing-resistant access controls at the foundation.
Thales SafeNet Trusted Access
SafeNet Trusted Access is a cloud-based access management platform combining SSO, multi-factor authentication, and risk-based policies. It targets enterprises that need flexible authentication options across diverse user populations. The platform centralizes access control for cloud applications while supporting contractors and partners alongside internal staff.
Flexible Authentication, Centralized Control
We found the authentication flexibility stands out. The platform supports hardware tokens, mobile apps, push notifications, SMS, and email OTP from a single management console. User-based licensing means one license covers multiple authentication methods per person.
Conditional access policies let you treat high-risk applications differently based on user groups and network zones. We saw the unified access event view pulls everything into one place for monitoring and compliance reporting.
Real-World Experience
Customers appreciate having SSO, MFA policies, and token management in one location. The built-in reports handle most audit requirements without custom scripting. The self-service portal reduces helpdesk load for basic tasks like PIN resets.
The friction points: customers say SAML and OIDC integrations require trial and error since error messages lack specificity. The admin interface spreads options across multiple screens, creating a learning curve for new administrators. Support response times draw mixed reviews.
Where It Fits Best
We think SafeNet Trusted Access works well for organizations needing diverse authentication methods under one roof. If your environment includes contractors, partners, and employees with varying access requirements, the flexibility pays off. Budget time for initial integration work. Once configured, the platform delivers solid access management with strong audit capabilities.
Strengths
- User-based licensing covers multiple authentication methods without per-token costs
- Conditional access policies apply different rules based on application risk and user context
- Built-in reporting satisfies most audit requirements without custom development
- Self-service portal handles routine tasks like PIN resets without IT involvement
Cautions
- SAML and OIDC integrations require troubleshooting due to vague error messages
- Admin interface navigation takes time to learn with options spread across screens
- Support response times can lag on complex technical questions
Ping Identity
Ping Identity delivers enterprise-grade IAM across cloud, on-premises, and hybrid environments. It serves mid-sized to large organizations needing SSO, MFA, and API security under one platform. AI-driven risk analysis and passwordless authentication options set it apart from simpler solutions.
Enterprise-Scale Identity Management
We found the platform handles complex identity scenarios well. It aggregates data from multiple directories into a single source of truth, solving the fragmentation problem in large environments. Real-time authorization decisions factor in risk signals and behavioral anomalies.
The passwordless authentication and intelligent API security address modern attack vectors. We saw the integration options cover SAML and OIDC with solid documentation for migrations from other identity providers.
What Teams Experience
Banking and telecom teams report strong authentication and authorization performance at scale. SSO rollouts across multiple applications run smoothly once configured. The platform earns praise for handling complex enterprise requirements.
The challenges: customers say error logs lack detail for troubleshooting, which slows problem resolution. The ecosystem includes multiple administrative interfaces that complicate daily tasks. Six-month update cycles feel slow for teams wanting faster iteration.
Matching Your Environment
We think Ping Identity fits organizations with complex identity requirements spanning cloud and on-premises systems. If you need a single platform to unify directories and apply risk-aware policies, it delivers. Expect to invest in configuration expertise upfront. The flexibility comes with complexity that smaller teams may find excessive.
Strengths
- Aggregates identity data from multiple directories into a unified source of truth
- Real-time risk-aware authorization uses AI to detect behavioral anomalies
- Passwordless authentication options reduce credential-based attack surface
- Strong SAML and OIDC integration support eases migration from other providers
Cautions
- Multiple administrative interfaces complicate routine management tasks
- Error logs lack detail needed for efficient troubleshooting
- Six-month update cycles may frustrate teams needing faster feature releases
Oracle Cloud Identity and Access Management
Oracle Cloud IAM is a cloud-native identity platform built for complex enterprise environments. It handles identity across employees, partners, and customers from one system. The zero-trust architecture makes identity the foundation rather than an afterthought.
Developer-Friendly Administration
We found the API-first approach works well for teams managing identity programmatically. User provisioning, group creation, and application access assignments happen through clean developer interfaces. The platform covers both cloud and on-premises systems without forcing a single deployment model.
Flexible authentication supports multiple methods from a unified console. We saw the integrated reporting and auditing features handle activity tracking and risk management without bolting on separate tools.
Implementation Realities
Enterprise teams report stable performance and strong vendor partnership support. Recent microservices additions like OAA, OARM, and OUA expand secure access capabilities. Implementations generally proceed smoothly with proper planning.
The pain points surface in daily operations. Customers say authorization error messages make it difficult to identify missing permissions. Dynamic groups for instance principal identities require tenancy admin involvement, adding friction. The separate policy models with and without IAM domains create confusion.
Fit for Your Stack
We think Oracle Cloud IAM makes sense if you already operate within the Oracle ecosystem or need a platform that spans cloud and on-premises equally. The zero-trust foundation and API flexibility serve complex environments well. Plan for a learning curve on policy configuration. Once your team understands the domain model, the platform delivers reliable enterprise identity management.
Strengths
- Developer-friendly APIs enable programmatic user provisioning and access management
- Zero-trust architecture places identity at the core of security decisions
- Integrated reporting and auditing eliminate need for separate compliance tools
- Supports both cloud and on-premises systems from a single platform
Cautions
- Authorization error messages lack detail needed to identify missing permissions
- Separate policy models with and without IAM domains create administrative confusion
- Dynamic group configuration requires tenancy admin involvement, slowing workflows
Okta Workforce Identity Cloud
Okta is a market leader in enterprise IAM, trusted by thousands of organizations worldwide. It handles SSO, MFA, identity governance, and privileged access from a unified cloud platform. The 7,000+ application integrations mean most of your stack connects out of the box.
Universal Directory, Unified Control
We found the universal directory centralizes users, groups, and devices effectively. This gives you visibility across cloud and on-premises applications from one place. Automated lifecycle management handles provisioning and deprovisioning without manual intervention.
Passwordless authentication works consistently across the platform. We saw the adaptive security policies monitor user activity and adjust access requirements based on risk signals. The API access controls extend protection to custom applications.
Operational Reality
Teams report smooth deployment and strong day-to-day usability. The single portal approach eliminates password fatigue while adding security layers that users actually accept. Finance and retail organizations highlight the efficiency gains from consolidated application access.
The frustrations center on configuration complexity. Customers say settings spread across multiple panels within the admin console, making single-pane management difficult. Getting adaptive security policies tuned correctly takes iteration and expertise.
Is Okta Right for Your Environment
We think Okta fits organizations wanting a proven, widely-adopted IAM platform with strong integration coverage. If your team needs to move fast on deployment, the ecosystem maturity helps. Expect some administrative overhead navigating the interface. For global teams managing hybrid environments, the tradeoff delivers solid identity management at scale.
Strengths
- 7,000+ pre-built integrations cover most enterprise application stacks immediately
- Universal directory provides centralized visibility across users, groups, and devices
- Automated lifecycle management reduces manual provisioning and offboarding work
- Consistent passwordless experience improves security without sacrificing user adoption
Cautions
- Admin settings spread across multiple panels complicate single-pane management
- Adaptive security policies require careful configuration to optimize risk thresholds
- Market leadership pricing may exceed budget for smaller organizations
ManageEngine AD360
ManageEngine AD360 is an enterprise IAM platform focused on Active Directory environments. It combines identity lifecycle management, SSO, MFA, and audit reporting in one console. Small to mid-sized IT teams get particular value from the automation that replaces manual AD administration tasks.
AD-Centric Automation
We found the bulk administration capabilities handle routine AD tasks efficiently. User provisioning, password resets with MFA verification, and group management run through approval-based workflows. The platform integrates both Azure AD and on-premises Active Directory from a single interface.
AI-powered analytics surface network activity patterns and potential risks. We saw the audit reporting depth supports compliance requirements without requiring custom scripting. Role-specific privileged access controls limit exposure for sensitive operations.
Teams on the Ground
IT teams report significant time savings once the platform is configured. The self-service password reset and SSO features reduce helpdesk tickets. Even non-technical staff navigate the interface without extensive training. Cost-effectiveness comes up repeatedly as a differentiator.
The tradeoffs: customers say initial integration with existing environments takes effort, though support teams help work through issues. The interface feels dated compared to newer platforms. Advanced governance features require tuning to match specific business processes.
Where AD360 Makes Sense
We think AD360 fits organizations heavily invested in Active Directory who want to automate without enterprise-tier pricing. If your team manages hybrid AD environments and needs solid audit capabilities, this delivers. Budget time for initial setup and workflow configuration. The platform rewards that investment with reliable day-to-day operation.
Strengths
- Bulk AD administration automates routine tasks that drain small IT teams
- Self-service password reset with MFA reduces helpdesk ticket volume
- Unified console manages both Azure AD and on-premises Active Directory
- Cost-effective pricing compared to enterprise IAM competitors
Cautions
- Interface design feels dated compared to modern cloud-native platforms
- Initial integration with existing environments requires dedicated setup effort
- Advanced governance workflows need tuning to align with business processes
JumpCloud
JumpCloud is a cloud-native directory platform that unifies identity, device management, and access control. It targets organizations with mixed OS environments spanning Windows, macOS, and Linux. The Zero Trust architecture ties access decisions to verified devices and network context.
Cross-Platform Directory Services
We found the cross-platform approach solves real pain points. Managing Mac and Windows fleets alongside cloud directories like Google Workspace happens from one console. Device login ties directly to existing credentials, eliminating password sprawl for end users.
RADIUS-as-a-Service handles Wi-Fi and VPN authentication without on-premises NPS servers. We saw the policy management deploy security baselines like encryption and firewall settings at scale. Zero-touch onboarding gets new devices productive quickly.
Admin Experience
IT teams praise the unified console for identity and device control. The free trial makes evaluation accessible for startups and growing companies. Flexible permission configuration lets admins customize access controls by role without excessive complexity.
The gaps show up at scale. Customers say Mac MDM features lag behind dedicated Apple solutions. Admin role granularity falls short for complex organizations. Billing continues for suspended accounts until full deletion, creating unexpected costs. Large enterprises with heavy compliance requirements may need supplemental tools.
Finding Your Fit
We think JumpCloud works best for cloud-first, mid-sized teams managing mixed OS environments. If you want to replace traditional domain controllers without the hybrid AD complexity, this deserves evaluation. Enterprises needing deep MDM capabilities or advanced compliance tooling should assess the gaps carefully. For the right environment, JumpCloud delivers solid unified management.
Strengths
- Unified console manages identity and devices across Windows, macOS, and Linux
- RADIUS-as-a-Service eliminates on-premises network authentication infrastructure
- Zero-touch onboarding streamlines new device provisioning for distributed teams
- Free trial tier makes evaluation accessible for startups and small teams
Cautions
- Mac MDM capabilities trail dedicated Apple device management solutions
- Suspended accounts continue billing until fully deleted from the system
- Admin role granularity insufficient for complex enterprise permission structures
IBM Verify
IBM Verify is an enterprise-grade IDaaS platform from a long-established identity vendor. It combines MFA, SSO, and passwordless authentication with adaptive access controls and identity analytics. The platform handles hybrid and multi-cloud deployments, extending cloud protection to on-premises applications.
Granular Controls, Global Compliance
We found the adaptive access capabilities stand out for risk-sensitive environments. The platform adjusts authentication requirements based on context and threat signals. Identity analytics provide visibility into access patterns and potential anomalies.
Consent management and privacy rule enforcement handle complex regulatory requirements across jurisdictions. We saw the custom activity reporting support compliance documentation and troubleshooting without heavy customization.
Day-to-Day Reality
Organizations handling sensitive financial and personal data praise the security rigor. The combination of strong authentication with low-friction login options reduces support tickets. Admins report reliable access control with clear accountability.
The friction centers on implementation. Customers consistently flag complex initial setup and configuration of identity flows. The admin console feels dated compared to modern competitors, with counterintuitive navigation. Subscription pricing draws concerns from cost-conscious teams.
Enterprise Fit Assessment
We think IBM Verify fits enterprises with complex compliance requirements and existing IBM relationships. If you handle sensitive data across multiple jurisdictions, the privacy and consent management capabilities justify the investment. Plan for extended implementation timelines and consider dedicated resources for configuration. Once running, the platform delivers solid enterprise identity management.
Strengths
- Adaptive access adjusts authentication requirements based on real-time risk signals
- Consent management handles complex global privacy regulations across jurisdictions
- Custom activity reporting supports compliance documentation without heavy development
- Hybrid deployment extends cloud identity protection to on-premises applications
Cautions
- Initial setup and identity flow configuration require significant time investment
- Admin console interface feels dated with counterintuitive navigation patterns
- Enterprise pricing may exceed budget for organizations without IBM relationships
HYPR
HYPR delivers passwordless authentication built on FIDO2 standards for phishing-resistant security. It targets regulated industries like finance and healthcare where credential theft carries serious consequences. The platform handles both workforce and customer identity use cases.
Passwordless Done Right
We found the FIDO2 foundation eliminates the credential database that attackers typically target. HYPR Authenticate centralizes passwordless login, while HYPR Adapt monitors risk signals and adjusts access controls in real time. The combination addresses both security and usability.
Integrations with Microsoft and CrowdStrike extend protection across the security stack. We saw the platform support workstation-level authentication that flows through to SSO without additional prompts. Linux support accommodates mixed environment needs.
Real-World Performance
Teams report exceptional reliability. No service outages after years of production use. Users consistently praise the seamless biometric login experience. Support response earns high marks for speed and effectiveness when issues arise.
The implementation curve draws attention. Customers say full-scale deployment takes time, especially in Windows PKI environments where the dependencies add complexity. Error messages sometimes lack specificity, making troubleshooting slower than it should be.
Where HYPR Excels
We think HYPR fits organizations serious about eliminating password-based attacks. If you face regulatory pressure or cyber insurance requirements around authentication, this addresses both concerns directly. Budget implementation time appropriately for complex environments. Once deployed, the platform delivers the reliability and user acceptance that makes passwordless adoption stick.
Strengths
- FIDO2 architecture eliminates credential databases that attackers typically target
- Exceptional uptime record with no reported service outages over multi-year deployments
- Biometric authentication earns strong user acceptance with minimal friction
- Responsive support team resolves issues quickly when they arise
Cautions
- Full-scale implementation requires significant time investment in complex environments
- Windows PKI dependencies add deployment complexity for enterprise networks
- Error messages lack specificity needed for efficient troubleshooting
Cisco Duo
Cisco Duo provides phishing-resistant MFA and identity management for organizations of all sizes. It targets teams wanting strong authentication without the complexity that typically comes with it. The push-based approach has become the standard others try to match.
Push Authentication That Works
We found the push notification flow delivers what users actually want. One tap approves access. No hunting for codes. The notification shows location and time for verification context. Wearable support means approval happens from an Apple Watch without reaching for a phone.
Duo Directory centralizes identity management or brokers existing identity sources. We saw the SSO and passwordless options reduce login friction while maintaining security. The Identity Intelligence platform surfaces login risks in real time.
User Acceptance
Adoption rates run high because the experience is fast. Setup takes minutes with a QR code scan. Clear documentation and quick integration into existing environments earn praise from IT teams. Daily use becomes routine rather than an obstacle.
The tradeoffs surface at the edges. Customers say a dead phone or no cell service means lockout. Device replacement requires IT admin involvement, which frustrates users. Reporting and troubleshooting visibility could be deeper for easier administration.
Deployment Considerations
We think Cisco Duo works well when user adoption is your primary concern. If your team has resisted MFA rollouts before, the push experience changes that dynamic. Plan backup authentication options for users who lose device access. The core platform delivers reliable, scalable protection that earns trust across SMBs and enterprises alike.
Strengths
- Push notifications enable one-tap authentication without code hunting
- Wearable support allows approval from Apple Watch for faster access
- Simple QR code setup gets users enrolled in minutes
- Clear documentation and easy integration reduce deployment overhead
Cautions
- Dead phone or no cell service locks users out without backup options
- Device replacement process requires IT admin involvement
- Reporting and troubleshooting tools lack depth for complex issue diagnosis
Other Identity And Access Management Services
Here are some other high performing IAM providers to consider:
An IAM solution built to help mid-sized organizations oversee user access rights across on-premises systems.
A full-featured IAM platform that delivers identity governance, access management, and privileged access management capabilities.
Delivers a wide portfolio of IAM tools, including identity governance, access management, and privileged access management.
An IAM platform offering identity management, access management, and identity governance solutions.
A leading PAM provider specializing in securing privileged credentials and protecting access to critical systems and sensitive data.
What To Look For: Identity Platform Evaluation Checklist
When selecting an Entra ID alternative, we’ve identified eight critical evaluation points. Use this checklist to assess which platform aligns with your requirements.
Integration Coverage and Breadth: Does the platform support all your critical applications? How many pre-built integrations ship with it? Can you connect legacy systems through SAML, OIDC, or custom APIs? Does the vendor actively maintain integration documentation for migrations from Entra ID?
Deployment Model Flexibility: Can it handle your specific architecture: cloud-only, on-premises, hybrid, or multi-cloud? Does the platform require datacenter residency for compliance? Can you deploy identity, device management, and access controls independently or bundled together?
Adaptive Policy Granularity: Does the platform adjust authentication based on context like location, device posture, and user behavior? Can you define policies by user role, application sensitivity, and risk level without applying blanket rules? Are policy changes auditable and reportable?
Administrative Complexity and Learning Curve: Can you configure core functionality without extensive vendor training? Does the admin console keep related settings together or scatter them across multiple screens? Are policy changes obvious to audit, or do admins need deep platform expertise to understand what changed?
Compliance and Audit Capabilities: Can it generate audit-ready reports for your specific compliance framework (SOX, HIPAA, GDPR, ISO 27001)? How detailed are access logs and activity trails? Does the platform provide compliance templates or do you need custom scripting for audit documentation?
Vendor Lock-In and Data Portability: How easily can you export user data, policy configurations, and access relationships? Does the vendor support standard formats (SAML, OIDC, REST APIs) for integration flexibility? What are your options for migration if you need to switch platforms in the future?
Support Quality and Implementation Responsiveness: What SLA do they offer for critical issues? Do they provide hands-on implementation support or primarily documentation-based answers? Check customer reviews for consistency—support quality varies significantly across vendors in this category.
Pricing Transparency and Total Cost of Ownership: Are per-user licensing, add-on modules, or ancillary services priced clearly upfront? What features require premium tiers? Model scenarios specific to your environment size and application count before comparing price quotes.
Evaluate these criteria in the context of your organization’s priorities. Teams with complex hybrid infrastructure should weight integration flexibility and deployment options heavily. Compliance-driven organizations should prioritize audit capabilities and policy transparency. Growing teams on tight budgets need clear pricing and straightforward admin experiences.
How We Tested Entra ID Alternatives
Expert Insights conducts independent research and testing of enterprise identity platforms without vendor influence on our editorial assessments. No pay-for-play relationships affect our recommendations. Our team maps the identity and access management vendor landscape across cloud, hybrid, and on-premises deployment models.
We evaluated 10 Entra ID alternatives, assessing integration breadth, policy flexibility, administrative complexity, deployment model support, and real-world implementation challenges. Each platform was tested in controlled environments simulating enterprise conditions. We examined user provisioning workflows, authentication policy configuration, lifecycle management automation, and audit reporting capabilities against common organizational requirements.
Beyond hands-on testing in isolated labs, we conducted comprehensive market research across the IAM category and reviewed customer feedback from reference installations. We consulted with product teams to understand architecture decisions and deployment considerations, then validated vendor claims against operational realities reported by customers. Editorial independence is core to our process. Vendor relationships never influence our assessment or publication decisions.
This guide receives quarterly updates to reflect new features, market changes, and customer feedback. For complete transparency on our evaluation methodology, visit our How We Test & Review Products page.
The Bottom Line
Microsoft Entra ID works well for many organizations, but it’s not universal. Your environment’s specific architecture, compliance requirements, and team expertise should drive the choice.
For the broadest application coverage and proven enterprise scalability, Okta Workforce Identity Cloud leads the market with 7,000+ integrations and a universal directory that handles hybrid complexity at any scale. Configuration overhead is real, but the ecosystem maturity pays off for large organizations.
If your infrastructure spans multiple cloud providers and on-premises systems requiring sophisticated federation, Ping Identity excels at connecting SAML, OIDC, and OAuth2 endpoints without custom work. Oracle Cloud IAM is the alternative if you’re already committed to the Oracle ecosystem with API-first administrative practices.
For teams wanting identity and device management consolidated into one platform, JumpCloud handles mixed OS environments elegantly. If your organization is deeply invested in Active Directory, ManageEngine AD360 provides cost-effective automation without forcing a cloud-first strategy. Thales SafeNet Trusted Access works well for hybrid environments where you need flexible authentication options across employees, contractors, and partners.
For organizations serious about eliminating password-based authentication, HYPR delivers FIDO2-based passwordless access with exceptional reliability. Cisco Duo remains the standard for straightforward MFA deployment when push-based authentication is your primary requirement.
For enterprises with complex compliance requirements across multiple jurisdictions, IBM Verify provides adaptive access controls and consent management that address data sensitivity concerns directly.
Review the individual platform assessments above to understand deployment specifics, pricing implications, and the trade-offs most relevant to your environment.
FAQs
Identity And Access Management: Everything You Need To Know (FAQs)
Digital identities store information that defines an individual’s role, level of access within an organization, and personal or contact details. These identities are not fixed, they evolve over time; like when roles change, or new technologies are adopted. Identity and access management solutions track these changes to accurately identify users, to ensure that the correct people are granted appropriate access.
Identity and access management (IAM) is not a single, universally defined system. Instead, IAM encompasses a range of functionalities that vary depending on the solution. These platforms allow organizations to manage users and permissions across multiple systems and applications from a centralized interface. Automation plays a key role in managing digital identities, achieved by standardizing processes and workflows across numerous user accounts.
At its core, an IAM system must identify, authenticate, and authorize users. Access is granted only to the appropriate individuals, while unauthorized users are blocked. System administrators can establish policies that specify who is allowed access to particular network areas without compromising security.
An IAM framework typically includes:
- A database storing all user information and access privileges
- Tools for creating, monitoring, modifying, and removing access rights
- A system for auditing login activity and access history
Access privileges must be continuously updated to reflect new users, departures, or role changes. IAM responsibilities usually fall under IT teams tasked with cybersecurity and data management.
Identity and access management (IAM) software can be deployed either on-premises or via the cloud. On-premises deployment requires the software to be installed on an organization’s own servers. Cloud-based IAM solutions, in contrast, can be set up quickly and easily without the need for local installation.
Having an IAM strategy is essential today. With hybrid workplaces and a growing number of remote employees, compromised identities are a leading cause of security breaches. Users still need access to sensitive data and tools, and strong identity security strengthens overall organizational security. IAM solutions also simplify access for users through features like biometric authentication and Single Sign-On (SSO), reducing the need to manage multiple passwords.
A key challenge for IT teams is protecting the identities of remote workers while ensuring they can access the resources necessary to perform their jobs. IAM addresses this by enforcing personalized, user-specific security policies.
While the advantages of IAM may not initially seem critical for every organization, any enterprise with users accessing restricted areas can benefit from implementing an IAM solution.
The first step in comparing identity security solutions is to clearly define your organization’s specific needs. These requirements can vary widely depending on industry, number of users, and risk factors. Once you understand your needs, consult a buyer’s guide to explore the top solutions available. Your choice may ultimately depend on a particular feature, familiarity with the vendor, or recommendations from industry peers.
With so many IAM solutions on the market, organizations often find it challenging to narrow down options. A structured approach can help, including:
- Conducting a thorough audit of legacy systems, especially if your applications span cloud and on-premises environments
- Identifying and documenting existing security gaps for both internal and external stakeholders
- Defining user types and specifying the access rights each group requires
After establishing your organization’s security needs, you can select the IAM solution that fits best. Options include standalone platforms, managed identity services, or cloud-based subscriptions such as Identity-as-a-Service (IDaaS).
Solutions will differ from vendor to vendor, but typically should include the following features to be considered a robust solution:
- MFA. This is an absolute must-have. Any decent IAM solution should be including MFA as this is undeniably safer than using a single authentication method (like a passcode or password/login).
- Passwordless authentication. Passwordless authentication options help to streamline the login process while also maintaining a robust security standard.
- Privileged Account Management (PAM). Privileged accounts are a particularly vulnerable to attack as these accounts have a high level of access, which is why they are such an attractive target for attackers. There should be as limited a number of privileged accounts as possible, to reduce the attack surface. IAM solutions should have appropriate and additional controls in place to manage privileged accounts and keep them safe.
- Role-based access control. Organizations utilizing role-based access control enjoy a greater level of control over their permission, as well as increased security in critical areas by ensuring that that users only have access to information they absolutely need to perform their role. This comes under the category of zero-trust infrastructure.
- Audit and compliance compatibility. It is increasingly important to be able to provide a comprehensive digital trail for compliance and audit purposes. A good IAM system should be able to provide this information regarding all users’ access across all digital files.
Written By
Mirren McDade is a senior writer and journalist at Expert Insights, spending each day researching, writing, editing and publishing content, covering a variety of topics and solutions, and interviewing industry experts.
She is an experienced copywriter with a background in a range of industries, including cloud business technologies, cloud security, information security and cyber security, and has conducted interviews with several industry experts.
Mirren holds a First Class Honors degree in English from Edinburgh Napier University.
Technical Review
Laura Iannini is a Cybersecurity Analyst at Expert Insights. With deep cybersecurity knowledge and strong research skills, she leads Expert Insights’ product testing team, conducting thorough tests of product features and in-depth industry analysis to ensure that Expert Insights’ product reviews are definitive and insightful.
Laura also carries out wider analysis of vendor landscapes and industry trends to inform Expert Insights’ enterprise cybersecurity buyers’ guides, covering topics such as security awareness training, cloud backup and recovery, email security, and network monitoring. Prior to working at Expert Insights, Laura worked as a Senior Information Security Engineer at Constant Edge, where she tested cybersecurity solutions, carried out product demos, and provided high-quality ongoing technical support.
Laura holds a Bachelor’s degree in Cybersecurity from the University of West Florida.