Digital Labyrinth: 25 Best Identity And Access Management Solutions Of 2025
10 Best Identity And Access Management Solutions Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 25 tools reviewed.
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Managing user access shouldn’t feel like a constant security risk, but for many IT teams, it often does. Maybe you’re struggling with employees using weak passwords, tracking down abandoned accounts that pose security threats, or juggling multiple authentication methods across cloud and on-prem systems. You need strong security, but it can’t come at the expense of efficiency—your team still needs to access the right systems without jumping through unnecessary hoops. With so many IAM solutions out there, finding the right balance of security, usability, and automation can be a challenge.
I’ve spent years working in technology leadership, helping businesses secure their environments without slowing down operations. The best IAM solutions don’t just enforce security—they automate access control, simplify authentication, and give IT full visibility into who has access to what, and why. In this guide, I’ve broken down the top IAM tools that help organizations stay secure, compliant, and efficient, so you can find the right solution for your needs.
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
| Tool | Best For | Trial Info | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |  Deel Deel facilitates identity and access management from worker onboarding to offboarding. | Best for global teams | Free demo available | Flat rate user pricing, with a free version for businesses with up to 200 people | Website |
| 2 |  Scalefusion Scalefront allows users to log in to their accounts using a single credential. | Best for conditional access management | 14-day free trial | Pricing upon request | Website |
| 3 |  ManageEngine ADManager Plus The reporting tool in ADManager Plus helps in identifying and mitigating potential security risks within the Active Directory environment. | Best for bulk user account creation | 30-day free trial | From $7/user/month (min 5 seats). | Website |
| 4 |  JumpCloud Image 9: JumpCloud devices activity overview | Best for cross-platform user management | Free plan available (up to 10 devices) + Free demo available | From $2/device/month | Website |
| 5 |  Ping Identity Image 4: Ping Identity's repository directory selection feature screenshot. | Best for multi-factor authentication | Not available | Website | |
| 6 |  Cakewalk You can keep track of every access request with Cakewalk's detailed request log, giving you full visibility into who requested access, when, and for which application. | Best for uncovering shadow IT | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website |
| 7 |  AWS Identity and Access Management (IAM) Image 10: AWS Identity and Access Management users dashboard | Best for Amazon ecosystem integration | Not available | Pricing upon request | Website |
| 8 |  WSO2 Identity Server Image 6: WSO2 Identity Server tool dashboard sample | Best for open-source flexibility | Not available | From $20/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| 9 |  Okta Workforce Identity Cloud Image 8: Okta Workforce Identity Cloud dashboard overview | Best for workforce-specific solutions | Not available | From $6 per user per month (billed annually) | Website |
| 10 |  Akamai Identity Cloud Image 2: Akamai Identity Cloud all device tool sample | Best for global content delivery integration | Not available | Website |
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Deel
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.8 -
New Relic
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.3 -
Checkmk
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.7
Best Identity And Access Management Solutions Reviews
Deel IT is a platform designed to help you manage and automate your global IT operations across more than 130 countries. It streamlines processes like onboarding and offboarding, ensuring your team members have the necessary equipment and software from day one.
Why I Picked Deel IT: Deel offers a robust multi-factor authentication (MFA) system. By enforcing MFA, Deel IT adds an extra layer of security, ensuring that only authorized users can access your company's resources. This feature is crucial in protecting sensitive data and maintaining compliance with various regulations. It also has role-based permissions that allow you to assign specific access levels to users based on their roles. By implementing role-based permissions, you can prevent unauthorized access to critical systems and data.
Standout features & integrations:
Other features include certified data erasure, which ensures that all sensitive information is securely removed from devices during offboarding or decommissioning. This process helps maintain data privacy and compliance with global regulations. Additionally, Deel IT offers real-time device tracking, allowing you to monitor the location and status of your IT assets worldwide. Some integrations include Hubstaff, QuickBooks, Google Workspace, Slack, JIRA, Microsoft 365, NetSuite, Salesforce, HubSpot, Microsoft Dynamics CRM, Microsoft Teams, and Zendesk.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Strong security features, including MFA and role-based permissions
- Comprehensive device lifecycle management
- Efficient global equipment procurement and deployment
Cons:
- Some features may require additional customization
- Doesn't offer more advanced IT features
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
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
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
WSO2 Identity Server is an open-source identity and access management solution that provides enterprises with robust security features. Its open-source nature offers organizations unparalleled customization and flexibility, which is why it shines as the top choice for open-source flexibility in identity management.
Why I Picked WSO2 Identity Server: When selecting an identity tool with flexibility at its core, the WSO2 Identity Server prominently stood out. I chose it because of its open-source model, allowing for extensive customization and tailoring. This unique characteristic made it clear that for companies valuing open-source flexibility, WSO2 is the optimal choice.
Standout features & integrations:
WSO2 Identity Server boasts features like single sign-on, adaptive authentication, and a broad range of multi-factor authentication methods. Given its open-source nature, it allows for the creation of custom modules to suit specific enterprise needs. For integrations, it supports popular enterprise applications, both on-premises and in the cloud, ensuring a cohesive security landscape.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Good integration capabilities with enterprise applications
- Broad range of authentication methods supported
- High level of customization thanks to its open-source model
Cons:
- Documentation, while extensive, can sometimes be overwhelming
- Initial setup can be intricate for some users
- Might require technical expertise for certain customizations
Okta Workforce Identity Cloud addresses the unique identity and access management needs of businesses and their employees. With an emphasis on solutions tailored to workforce scenarios, it streamlines the process of identity verification, access control, and security for all workforce members.
Why I Picked Okta Workforce Identity Cloud: While comparing various tools for identity management, Okta Workforce Identity Cloud caught my attention because of its workforce-centric approach. I chose it because it focuses on solutions designed explicitly for workforce scenarios. Given businesses’ unique challenges in managing their workforce's digital identities, Okta stands out as the most adept for this specialized requirement.
Standout features & integrations:
Okta boasts adaptive multi-factor authentication, centralized access management, and a user-friendly self-service portal. These tools enhance workforce productivity without compromising security. Regarding integrations, Okta smoothly connects with various enterprise applications, including HR systems, VPNs, and other critical business tools.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Vast integration ecosystem with crucial business tools
- Centralized access management simplifies administration
- Tailored solutions for workforce identity management
Cons:
- Periodic changes and updates may demand recurrent training for administrators
- The setup may require technical expertise for complex environments
- Some advanced features might be available only in higher-tier plans
Akamai Identity Cloud manages customer identity and access, connecting users to the resources they need. It integrates with Akamai's content delivery network for fast and secure content delivery, making it essential for global businesses.
Why I Picked Akamai Identity Cloud: I chose Akamai Identity Cloud for its unique combination of identity management and content delivery, allowing businesses to authenticate users and deliver content efficiently. Given this synergy, it was clear why Akamai Identity Cloud is 'Best for global content delivery integration.'
Standout features & integrations:
Akamai Identity Cloud offers robust registration, social login, and single sign-on capabilities. Its profile storage ensures user data is secure, while its consent and preference management tools uphold user trust. When it comes to integrations, Akamai Identity Cloud is designed to work harmoniously with Akamai's suite of performance and security solutions, providing an integrated user experience that is both secure and efficient.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Perfectly tailored for global operations due to CDN integration
- Robust profile storage ensures user data safety
- Comprehensive registration and social login features
Cons:
- Lacks some of the granular controls found in dedicated IAM tools
- Might come off as complex for those unfamiliar with CDN concepts
- Not optimal for small-scale operations
Other Noteworthy Identity And Access Management Solutions
- NetIQ Identity Manager
For large enterprise scalability
- Microsoft Entra Verified ID
For Microsoft suite compatibility
- IBM Security Verify
For AI-driven insights
- Auth0
For developer-friendly customization
- ForgeRock
For identity lifecycle management
- Thales SafeNet Trusted Access
For security hardware integration
- FusionAuth
Good for customizable identity and access
- Frontegg
Good for rapid SaaS application development
- Rippling
Good for comprehensive HR and IT management
- OneLogin
Good for streamlined cloud-based identity management
- Ermetic
Good for cloud security analytics
- Silverfort Unified Identity Protection Platform
Good for multi-environment authentication protection
- 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.
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