5 Best Identity and Access Management Software I Trust

In my years writing about cybersecurity, I’ve learned one universal truth: no one wakes up excited about identity and access management (IAM), but everyone regrets ignoring it.

Between employees reusing weak passwords, phishing attempts targeting credentials, and the growing web of SaaS applications, keeping accounts secure without frustrating users is easier said than done.

Throw in remote work, third-party integrations, and compliance audits into the mix, and it’s no surprise that IAM feels like an endless game of catch-up. The challenge isn’t just about security—it’s about finding the right IAM tool that actually works without adding complexity to daily operations.

If you’re a security leader, IT manager, or business decision-maker, finding the best identity and access management software for your organization can feel overwhelming. With so many options promising airtight security and seamless integration, how do you know which one truly delivers? 

I’ve done all this research, so you don’t have to. I spoke with IAM experts, reviewed G2 reports, and gathered insights from my own IT and security team (who have seen enough bad IAM setups to last a lifetime). After comparing 15 leading IAM solutions, I’ve narrowed it down to the top five that actually stand out—for security, scalability, and usability.

Whether you’re upgrading your IAM strategy or choosing a solution for the first time, this guide will help you find the best fit for your organization.

5 best identity and access management software I recommend  

I’ve seen firsthand how important identity and access management software is for businesses. Without it, managing user access is like handing out keys to an office and losing track of who has them or where they’re being used.

IAM software is what keeps that chaos in check. It controls who gets access to what, when, and how securely, so IT teams can enforce security policies, prevent unauthorized access, and reduce risk without turning every login attempt into a support ticket.

I've seen my fair share of IAM software in all shapes and sizes, from cloud-focused ones to on-premises solutions and from highly customizable systems for large enterprises to simple options for growing teams.

From my research and conversations with IAM experts, I’ve realized that the best IAM software isn’t just about security. It's about the balance between secure user authentication, granular access controls for enforcing the least privilege, and smooth integration with existing systems.

What makes the best identity and access management software: My criteria

Based on everything I’ve learned, here’s the checklist I used to evaluate the top IAM solution:

• Strong authentication without friction: Authentication has to be robust, but it shouldn’t create unnecessary headaches. If logging in feels like a chore, users will take shortcuts—reusing passwords, writing them down, or bypassing security altogether. I looked for IAM solutions that offer multi-factor authentication (MFA) beyond the basics, with options like biometric verification, passwordless login, and adaptive authentication that adjusts security requirements based on risk. Single sign-on (SSO) was another big factor since it reduces login fatigue while maintaining security. Risk-based authentication also stood out—solutions that analyze behavior, location, and device to trigger additional security when needed scored higher on my list.
• Granular access controls and role-based management: It’s not just about who can log in—it’s about what they can access once inside. IAM solutions that offer strong role-based access control (RBAC) made the cut, allowing IT teams to manage permissions at scale without manually adjusting every user’s access. I also looked at tools with attribute-based access control (ABAC), which considers context like device type, location, and login behavior to make smarter access decisions. Just-in-time access was another feature that stood out, limiting high-privilege access only when it’s absolutely necessary, reducing long-term exposure to sensitive systems.
• Integration with existing security infrastructure: An IAM system isn’t useful if it doesn’t fit into the broader security ecosystem. I prioritized solutions that integrate smoothly with identity providers like Active Directory and Azure AD, as well as SIEM platforms for real-time authentication monitoring. IAM should also connect with HR and ITSM systems for automated provisioning and de-provisioning of accounts—because manual account management is a recipe for errors and security gaps.
• Compliance and audit-readiness: For organizations dealing with strict regulations, IAM isn’t just a security tool—it’s a compliance requirement. I focused on solutions that offer built-in audit logs, detailed compliance reporting, and governance features like access reviews and certification workflows. Meeting industry standards like SOC 2, ISO 27001, HIPAA, and GDPR was another major factor. Security leaders need IAM tools that don’t just help them secure identities but also make compliance audits less of a nightmare.
• Scalability and flexibility for growing organizations: A good IAM solution should grow with the business, not hold it back. I evaluated how well these tools support hybrid IT environments and whether they offer multi-tenant support for enterprises managing multiple subsidiaries or divisions. API-driven customization was another key factor—organizations need IAM systems that allow them to automate workflows and integrate with other security tools instead of forcing a rigid, one-size-fits-all approach.
• User experience: IAM security only works if people actually use it. I looked for IAM solutions that offer clean, intuitive admin dashboards that IT teams can navigate without extensive training. Self-service password reset was another major factor—IT teams don’t have time to constantly unlock accounts just because someone forgot a password. The best solutions reduce friction while still enforcing strong security policies.

I wanted to evaluate IAM solutions from a security-first perspective while also considering how IT teams and employees interact with them daily. After checking each tool against this checklist and cross-referencing it with expert insights, real-world feedback, and AI-driven review analysis, I identified the top five IAM solutions.

The list below contains genuine user reviews from the IAM software category. To be included in this category, a solution must:

• Provision and de-provision of user identities.
• Assign access based on individual role, group membership, and other factors.
• Enforce user access rights based on permissions.
• Verify user identity with authentication, which may include multi-factor authentication methods.
• Integrate with directories that house employee data.

*This data was pulled from G2 in 2025. Some reviews may have been edited for clarity.  

1. Microsoft Entra ID

When it comes to IAM solutions, Microsoft Entra ID (formerly Azure Active Directory) is often one of the first name that comes up—and for good reason. It’s deeply integrated into the Microsoft ecosystem.

And here’s what makes it even more appealing in my opinion. If a company is already using Microsoft services like Azure, Dynamics 365, Intune, or Power Platform, Entra ID comes included for free. That means there’s built-in support for MFA, unlimited SSO across SaaS apps, basic reporting, and self-service password changes for cloud users without any extra cost. For businesses already in the Microsoft ecosystem, this is a huge advantage.

From my research and conversations with IT professionals, Entra ID stands out for its strong authentication, powerful security controls, and flexible conditional access policies. Combine it further with Intune, Microsoft's cloud-based endpoint management solution, we get a robust system for unified access control and endpoint management.

One of its biggest strengths is conditional access in my opinion. IT teams love the ability to enforce security policies based on user behavior, location, and risk level. This means users logging in from an unknown device might be prompted for MFA, while trusted users on managed devices can access resources without unnecessary friction. It’s a smart approach that balances security with usability.

I also found that we could connect on-premise Active Directory with Entra ID using Entra Connect and simplify access management across cloud and on-premise. I think this is particularly beneficial for organizations transitioning to the cloud but still maintaining on-premises infrastructure.

But that said, there are some drawbacks too. One of the biggest challenges I’ve come across with Microsoft Entra ID is the setup and configuration process. If you’re already running a Microsoft-heavy environment, things tend to fall into place more smoothly. But for companies with a mixed IT infrastructure or those transitioning from a non-Microsoft setup, getting everything properly configured can take time. 

Licensing costs are another thing that stood out to me. Entra ID does come with a free tier if you’re already using Microsoft services, but the more advanced security features under identity protection, governance, and privileged access management are only available in higher-tier licenses like Entra ID P2 or the Suite. That’s where things get tricky in my opinion.

For smaller organizations that actually need these features but don’t have the budget for premium licensing, it can be a tough call. If you’re looking for a fully-featured IAM solution without spending extra, you really have to dig into which Entra ID tier matches your security and compliance needs.

Despite these cons, Microsoft Entra ID is a solid IAM to consider, especially if you are already in the Microsoft ecosystem and are cloud-native.

What I dislike about Microsoft Entra ID:

• From what I observed, setting up Entra ID isn’t exactly a smooth ride. If you’re not already locked into Microsoft’s ecosystem, expect some extra time and effort to get everything configured properly.
• Based on my research, licensing cost is another pain point. While the free tier covers the basics, some of the features that security teams actually need are locked behind Entra ID P2, which isn’t cheap.

What G2 users dislike about Microsoft Entra ID: 

"Users who are not familiar with Microsoft products will face difficulties in understanding the integration of this product, and the same goes for companies using non-Microsoft platforms. The cost of implementing Microsoft Entra ID could be a concern for low-budget companies along with this, the companies that pose challenges in environments with unstable internet access can face problems because Entra ID is cloud-based." 

- Microsoft Entra ID Review, Sahil C.

2. JumpCloud

JumpCloud stands out to me as a flexible, cloud-first IAM solution that’s designed for organizations that want to move beyond traditional on-prem identity management.

What I like about it is that JumpCloud follows an open directory approach which gives the freedom to manage identities across Windows, Android, iOS, macOS, and Linux—all from one platform. It doesn’t just work with Azure or Active Directory—it also integrates seamlessly with Google Workspace, AWS, and third-party SaaS apps. That makes it a strong choice for multi-cloud and hybrid setups.

I also like that JumpCloud combines IAM with mobile device management (MDM), directory services, and endpoint security into a single platform. Managing users, devices, and security policies from one place makes life easier, especially for IT teams juggling multiple operating systems.

From a usability standpoint, JumpCloud definitely gets my praise for its clean and user-friendly interface. Onboarding new users is simple, and SSO and MFA are easy to deploy across an organization.

Another thing I’ve found is that JumpCloud has an extensive knowledge base with step-by-step tutorials and videos. This makes it easy to set up and implement security policies. And if something does go wrong, customer support has a solid reputation.

However, there are a few things that can be improved. From what I saw, some features are missing, like self-service for account unlocks, which means IT teams have to step in every time a user gets locked out. There’s also room for improvement in existing features like remote assist, which is a bit clunky to work with.

Also, from my perspective, JumpCloud does offer MDM, but if you're managing a large fleet of devices, especially in Apple-heavy environments, it might not have the same level of granular control and automation that Jamf or other MDM provides.

That said, I'd say JumpCloud’s strength lies in its unified approach of integrating IAM, directory services, and MDM into a single platform. If you're looking for an all-in-one solution rather than a standalone enterprise-grade option of IAM and MDM, Jumpcloud is still a solid choice, especially for small and medium businesses, even at a higher price point.

What I dislike about JumpCloud:

• From my observation, some features are still missing. For example, I found it lacks self-service account unlocks. Every time a user gets locked out, IT has to step in, which feels unnecessary when other IAM solutions offer self-service options.
• I also think certain features need improvement. For instance, remote Assist feels clunky, and while MDM works, it doesn’t offer the same granular control and automation as dedicated tools like Jamf.

What G2 users dislike about JumpCloud:

"Jumpcloud has yet to develop advanced features like self-service for Account unlocks, User orchestration, and governance capabilities, which are necessary in this era of enterprise security management."

- Jumpcloud Review,  Gangadhara S. 

3. Okta

From my experience, Okta is one of the most flexible and scalable IAM solutions, especially for organizations that need strong security, seamless integrations, and advanced authentication controls. Okta is also vendor-neutral—just like JumpCloud, and I’ve found it to be a great fit for companies managing multi-cloud environments or handling a complex mix of SaaS applications that require deep integration and automation. 

One thing that really impressed me is how well Okta integrates with other tools. Whether you’re running Microsoft, Google Workspace, AWS, or managing a large number of SaaS applications, Okta handles SSO, adaptive authentication, and automated user provisioning effortlessly.

Another area where Okta shines is user experience. The interface is a breeze to work with for both IT teams and end users, and from what I’ve seen, it offers one of the smoothest SSO experiences out there. 

While it has Okta Verify as a solid built-in option for MFA, I find it valuable that it also supports third-party MFA and token providers, giving companies the freedom to integrate what works best for them. I also like that Okta offers a user-customized SSO portal. It’s smooth and efficient and makes managing multiple apps much easier.

Now, there are some downsides. While Okta is packed with enterprise-grade security and IAM features, I’ve seen that pricing can be a hurdle for smaller businesses and startups. Okta offers a la carte pricing, so companies can pick and choose the features they need. For small businesses and startups, these costs can add up, especially when multiple services are needed.

While Okta is powerful, getting it fully set up isn’t easy. There are many settings, policies, and integrations that need careful configuration, and the initial setup can feel overwhelming, based on my observations. Definitely, Okta offers good documentation and support, but it still takes time and effort to fine-tune everything for security, access controls, and automation. But once it’s up and running, it’s incredibly effective.

What I dislike about Okta:

• From what I saw, the setup isn’t exactly quick. Okta is powerful, but getting everything configured takes time. There are a lot of settings to fine-tune, and the learning curve can feel steep if you’re new to IAM. Once it’s running, it’s great—but don’t expect to flip a switch and be done.
• Cost can be a challenge for smaller businesses, in my opinion. With a $1,500 annual contract minimum, it can feel out of reach for startups or small IT teams that only need a few core features.

What G2 users dislike about Okta: 

 "Okta is expensive and unsuitable for smaller businesses. Pricing plans are a la carte and confusing. Configuring directories and user synchronization will take a lot of effort and time." 

- Okta Review, Qual A. 

4. Salesforce Platform

I'll be honest and admit here that when I think of IAM solutions, Salesforce isn’t the first name that comes to mind. I mean, they are known for their customer relationship management (CRM) system. That was it for me. But after digging in, I realized that Salesforce Identity, offered through the Salesforce Platform, is actually a solid IAM option—especially if your business is already running on Salesforce.

It has all the essentials I’d expect from an IAM solution—SSO, MFA, connected apps, and centralized user management.

Salesforce also has App Launcher, which lets users access all their business apps, be it Salesforce apps like Salesforce Coud, Mulesoft, Quip, Tableau products or other vendor apps from one place without logging in separately. Even if the company uses Active Directory for user management, you can use Identity Connect to manage Salesforce accounts.That’s a huge win for usability and security, in my opinion.

I like the level of control Salesforce provides over data access. Using connected apps and OAuth, you can define exactly who sees what, making it easy to restrict customer account access to sales and support teams while ensuring other departments only see what they need. Plus, identity monitoring services help track and manage who is accessing systems, services, and data, which is a big win for security teams looking for better visibility into user activity.

 I also found Customer Identity to be a strong add-on, especially for large businesses with thousands of customers to track them across all channels. Customers can self-register, log in, and securely access apps with a single identity. The best part is that it’s fully customizable to fit a company’s branding and workflows, making Salesforce not just an IAM solution but also a powerful Customer Identity and Access Management (CIAM) and marketing tool at the same time.

While Salesforce Identity has a lot going for it, there are a few areas where I see some challenges. Setting everything up isn’t as straightforward as you'd expecte—there are a lot of configurations, permissions, and integrations to fine-tune, which can make onboarding time-consuming. Unlike dedicated IAM solutions like Okta or JumpCloud, which are built specifically for identity management, Salesforce Identity is more like a piece of a larger system, so it takes extra effort to get everything working smoothly.

Also, based on my observations, the platform can feel sluggish, especially when dealing with large datasets or complex workflows. It’s not a dealbreaker, but if you’re expecting instant access and fast response times all the time, this might be something to keep in mind.

And then there’s pricing. In my opinion, Salesforce Identity makes sense for large businesses and enterprises already invested in the Salesforce ecosystem. But, for small to mid-sized companies, it might not be the most budget-friendly option.

My recommendation would be to use Salesforce Identity if you are already heavily invested in the platform, especially if you are using one of Professional, Enterprise, Unlimited, and Performance Edition of their CRM software. 

What I dislike about Salesforce Platform:

• To me, getting Salesforce Identity fully configured takes time. There are a lot of settings to tweak, permissions to manage, and integrations to set up, which can make onboarding more complicated compared to dedicated IAM solutions like Okta or JumpCloud. Performance can be slow –
• As I see it, certain processes feel sluggish, especially when working with large datasets or complex workflows on Salesforce. So, if you’re expecting fast response times across the board, this might be a pain point.

What G2 users like about Salesforce Platform: 

"As a user, what I don't like about Salesforce is that it is very expensive, espically for small bussiness and startups. As a developer, when you are dealing with large amount of data, the reports and dashboard can run slowly and sometimes governor limit can restrict the complex operation."

- Salesforce Platform Review, Dhruv G.

5. Cisco Duo

When I first explored Cisco Duo, I was impressed by its straightforward approach to security. What really stood out to me is how simple yet effective it is. MFA, SSO, and adaptive authentication are at their core, and unlike some IAM tools that feel bloated with features you’ll never use, Duo keeps things focused and easy to manage.

What stands out to me is how easy Duo is to use. Some IAM platforms come with a steep learning curve, but Duo keeps things straightforward based on my research. It’s also highly flexible, integrating with a wide range of applications and platforms, which makes deployment less of a headache—something I can’t always say for other IAM tools.

Another cool feature is Duo Passport, which makes life easier for users by sharing remembered device sessions across applications. That means fewer repeated logins and less friction for employees who need quick access to multiple systems.

What I like the most is that Duo offers a free plan, which isn’t something you see often with IAM solutions. You can add up to 10 users at no cost and still get access to strong MFA, seamless integrations, and Duo’s free authenticator app. It’s a great way for small teams or startups to get started with secure access controls without worrying about budget constraints. Plus, it lets you test Duo’s features before committing to a paid plan, which is always a plus.

One issue I’ve noticed is that its offline access is limited, which can be frustrating for users who need to authenticate but don’t have an internet connection. I also think there’s room for improvement in Duo’s UI and design. While it’s functional, it could be more intuitive and modern. Duo feels a bit utilitarian in comparison to other platforms. A more polished interface would make the experience even better.

Irrespective of these cons, Cisco Duo is a solid choice for organizations seeking reliable MFA and SSO solutions with seamless integration capabilities

What I dislike about Cisco Duo:

• Based on my research, if a user doesn’t have an internet connection, Duo doesn’t offer many ways to authenticate, which can be a problem for people who travel or work remotely in low-connectivity areas.
• From what I saw, the UI feels a little outdated – It works, but it’s not the most modern or intuitive interface I’ve seen. A refresh would make the experience smoother, especially for IT teams managing large deployments.

What G2 users dislike about Cisco Duo: 

"The set up of online and offline can be confusing for end users. Also, if time desyncs, it becomes a HUGE problem."

- Cisco Duo Review, Jonathan M.

Now, there are a few more options, as mentioned below, that didn't make it to this list but are still worth considering, in my opinion:

• AWS Verified Access: Best for securing AWS environments with Zero Trust access controls.
• Google Cloud Identity: Best for organizations deep in the Google ecosystem needing seamless IAM.
• Oracle Identity Cloud Service: Best for hybrid cloud IAM with strong enterprise integrations.
• Rippling: Best for combining IAM with HR and payroll management in one platform.
• IBM Verify: Best for AI-driven identity security and advanced threat detection.
• SailPoint: Best for enterprise-level identity governance and compliance management.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ) on IAM software

1. Why is IAM important for businesses?

IAM enhances security, reduces the risk of data breaches, streamlines user access, and ensures compliance with industry regulations (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA, SOC 2). It also improves productivity by automating user provisioning and access management.

2. What features should I look for in IAM software?

Key IAM features include:

• Single sign-on (SSO): Enables users to log in once and access multiple applications.
• Multi-factor authentication (MFA): Adds an extra layer of security beyond passwords.
• User provisioning and deprovisioning: Automates account creation and removal.
• Role-based access control (RBAC):Assigns permissions based on job roles.
• Audit and compliance reporting: Helps track access logs for security and regulatory purposes.
• Identity federation: Supports cross-domain authentication.

3. What is the difference between IAM and PAM (Privileged Access Management)?

IAM focuses on managing access for all users in an organization. PAM is specifically designed to secure access for privileged accounts with elevated permissions, such as system administrators.

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

IAM solutions can be:

• Cloud-based: Hosted by a provider, scalable, and ideal for modern SaaS applications.
• On-premises: Installed within a company’s infrastructure, offering more control over security policies.
• Hybrid: Combines both models for flexibility.

5. Can IAM software help with Zero Trust security?

Yes, IAM is a critical component of Zero Trust by enforcing identity verification, least privilege access, and continuous monitoring to prevent unauthorized access.

6. How much does IAM software cost?

IAM pricing varies based on features, deployment type, and the number of users. Some vendors offer subscription-based models, while others provide enterprise licensing. Additional costs may include implementation, support, and compliance features.

7. How can I choose the right IAM solution for my business?

Consider: Your organization's size and security need Integration capabilities with your existing tools, Compliance requirements, Scalability, ease of use, and Support for modern security practices (e.g., Zero Trust, MFA, adaptive authentication).

8. Which is the best identity and access management software?

The best IAM tool depends on your organization's needs, budget, and existing infrastructure. Popular IAM solutions include Okta, Microsoft Entra ID (formerly Azure AD), JumpCloud, Cicso Duo, Ping Identity, IBM Security Verify, and ForgeRock. It's best to compare features, integrations, and security capabilities before choosing.

IAM ready

After digging into the best IAM software solutions, I’ve come to one conclusion: security should work with people, not against them. The strongest authentication policies in the world won’t help if employees find ways around them out of frustration. At the same time, an easy login experience means nothing if the wrong person gains access. That’s the balancing act every IT and security team faces, and the right IAM tool makes all the difference.

If your company is deep in Microsoft’s ecosystem, Entra ID is a strong choice. JumpCloud and Okta gives you flexibility across different platforms. Salesforce Identity makes sense if Salesforce runs your business, and Cisco Duo keeps things simple with strong MFA and integrations. Each tool has its place—but the best IAM solution is the one that fits how your organization actually operates.

At the end of the day, IAM isn’t just about securing logins—it’s about protecting your business from real threats while keeping access smooth for the right people. So, Ppick the right IAM, and you’re not just enforcing policies—you’re building a security culture that actually works.

Still on the hunt? Explore our categories of identity management systems to find the best fit for your security needs.