IAM Software is the most convenient fix when it comes to managing access to information, tools, and locations in an organization. And while it may seem like too much, the reality is that for companies looking to scale up - it’s essential.
Looking to expand operations? IAM software can cut administrative time and costs while maintaining control of sensitive information, privacy, and security.
With the ability to enable passwordless authentication, multi-factor authentication, and even track user activity while restricting access flexibly, Identity and Access Management providers have immense value to offer. And in the case of medical, financial, and SaaS companies it can make complying with industry standards and regulations a whole lot easier.
What are IAM Tools?
IAM tools or IAM (Identity and Access Management) software allows organizations and individuals to manage access and authentication frameworks for users to resources, tools, and information.
The functionality of IAM software can change based on the IAM tool or software employed. However, in general, they help with aspects like provisioning, single sign-on, and biometric authentication. Moreover, aspects like role-based access control, as well as, auditing and reporting compliance based on your industry requirements make IAM a no-brainer for most.
Key Benefits of Using Identity and Access Management (IAM) Solutions
Better Security and Risk Management
First and foremost, the best advantage that IAM providers enable is better security organization-wide. Regardless of the forgetfulness or clumsiness of users, there are features like multi-factor authentication, biometrics, passwords, and OTPs that act as safeguards.
These that help ensure that it’s exceedingly difficult to bypass the security infrastructure put in place.
Fewer Security Breaches and Unauthorized Access
With IAM software there are a lot of security breaches. How? Well, this is done through stricter access control systems like RBAC, ABAC, or even PAM. Even with user errors, security is maintained through multi-factor authentication, role-based access control, and single sign-on.
Real-time monitoring detects any suspicious activity making it easier for security systems to respond to threats. Alongside this, privileged access management can help protect the files with the most sensitive information.
Centralized Access Management
One appealing aspect of IAM is Centralized access management. This IAM software enhances the efficiency of managing user permissions.
Moreover, real-time monitoring also spots suspicious activity quickly, improving the overall security and compliance of the system.
One more point worth mentioning is that centralized access management supports security in even remote work environments.
Easier Administrative Functionality and Efficiency
IAM tools have centralized dashboards for administrators to monitor user identities, this helps with compliance and security standards are followed closely.
With features like Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) streamlining assigning permissions based on roles is a lot faster.
Easier Compliance for Industry Standards and Audits
IAM software makes it easier to follow industry rules and pass audits by automating and putting access management tasks all in one place. This helps make sure that compliances like HIPAA or GDPR, are followed the same way across all systems.
With real-time monitoring, it's also simple to get ready for audits. This goes especially since reports can be made quicker and without much manual work.
Better User Experience
IAM software enhances the user experience by streamlining access to multiple systems through features like Single Sign-On (SSO) and self-service capabilities. Aside from this, you can also
Self-service options, such as password resets, empower users to manage routine tasks without relying on IT support, improving productivity.
10 Best Identity and Access Management (IAM) Solutions to Streamline Access Management
Here's a breakdown of some best vendors to help you navigate your options:
1. Infisign
Infisign is most likely the best Identity and Access Management Software on this list. Although new to the market, this IAM tool overall has positive reviews.
The software allows users to enable RBAC or ABAC and even PAM frameworks making it versatile to work with. On the whole, Infisign drastically reduces the chances of security breaches or access by unauthorized users.
Features in Infisign:
- Multi-Factor Authentication: Comes with multifactor authentication methods like SMS, email, and app-based tokens, adding a layer of security.
- User Federation with SSO: User federation allows you to manage the user identity from multiple different platforms in place. Also with SSO, you can sign on to all applications all at once - without the need to keep signing in to each app.
- Comes with 6000+ app integrations: With over 6000 integrations you can use most of your existing tools and platforms whether it's CRM, sales, or development.
- AI Powered Access Assist: AI-powered access assist allows you to enable a widget on platforms like Slack to automate user-privisoning, and access control and to have real-time updates on threats.
- Zero Knowledge Proof and Zero Trust Framework: Authenticate access without revealing any personal information and also protect your accounts from hackers with passwordless authentication.
2. Okta
Okta is a popular Identity and Access Management (IAM) solution, that is a widely used choice.
With its user-friendly interface, Okta allows for smooth integration across diverse applications and platforms, which helps improve user experience.
Features in Okta:
- Multi-Factor Authentication: This enables both additional security and versatile authentication for users.
- Single-Sign-On: SSO allows users to sign into multiple applications with a single set of credentials.
- Complete Identity Management: Okta has identity management features like user provisioning, de-provisioning, and role management.
3. Microsoft Entra ID
Microsoft Entra ID, formerly Azure Active Directory, is a comprehensive Identity and Access Management (IAM) solution. It integrates across cloud and on-premises applications, improving both security and user productivity for your organization.
Features in Entra ID:
- Multi-Cloud Integration: Entra ID integrates across hybrid and multi-cloud environments to enhance security and operational efficiency.
- Security and User Productivity: This IAM solution balances security and user productivity by supporting cloud and on-premises applications.
- Identity Management: This software strengthens the security framework while maintaining operational efficiency for organizations.
4. Ping Identity
Ping Identity is a well-known IAM platform that manages access to apps, APIs, and data. With its simple interface, Ping Identity allows centralized user management with automated provisioning.
Features in Ping Identity:
- Multi-Factor Authentication: Ping Identity provides MFA for enhanced security and adaptable user authentication methods.
- Single-Sign-On: SSO allows users to easily access multiple applications with a single login.
- Risk-Based Authentication: Ping Identity adjusts security based on user activity and offers passwordless options for easier access.
5. SecureAuth
SecureAuth is an enterprise Identity and Access Management (IAM) platform, focusing on enhancing security. This IAM solution improves ease of use for both workforce and customer identities with its wide range of features.
Features in SecureAuth:
- Multi-Factor Authentication: SecureAuth has multiple MFA options along with adaptive risk checks to enhance security.
- Single-Sign-On: SSO simplifies user access across multiple applications using a single set of credentials.
- Federation Protocols: SecureAuth allows users to leverage major federation protocols for better integration.
6. OneLogin
OneLogin is a comprehensive Identity and Access Management (IAM) platform that simplifies managing identities across directories, apps, and devices.
With its straightforward interface, OneLogin is easy to use, though some features may seem complex to certain users.
Features in OneLogin:
- User Provisioning: OneLogin supports user provisioning with real-time syncing, ensuring up-to-date identity management
- Centralized Reporting: OneLogin provides centralized reporting, assisting organizations with compliance checks.
7. Zluri
Zluri is an Identity and Access Management (IAM) platform designed to simplify access control for cloud applications. This software is useful however, some users may find the setup process challenging.
Features in Zluri:
- Multi-Factor Authentication: Zluri includes MFA, adding several layers of security to the authentication process.
- Role-Based Access Control (RBAC): RBAC allows for precise control of user permissions based on their role within the organization.
- Automated Provisioning: Zluri supports automated provisioning and de-provisioning, allowing efficient management of user access.
8. CyberArk
CyberArk is an Identity Security and Access Management tool that ensures identity protection at every stage. This IAM solution has secure access management with various features for compliance and security.
Features in CyberArk:
- Multi-Factor Authentication: CyberArk provides Adaptive MFA to strengthen access security by adding layers of authentication.
- Single-Sign-On: With secure SSO, users can access multiple applications using one set of credentials.
- Smart Privilege Controls: CyberArk uses privilege controls for users, vendors, and machines, ensuring compliance and security.
- Continuous Threat Detection: Powered by CyberArk Labs, this feature detects threats in real-time to maintain security.
9. SailPoint
SailPoint is an Identity and Access Management (IAM) platform that focuses on identity governance and security for enterprises. This IAM software helps automate tasks and manage user access securely.
Features in SailPoint:
- IdentityIQ: IdentityIQ manages user access, ensuring efficient and secure provisioning and de-provisioning of users.
- Role-Based Access Control (RBAC): With RBAC, SailPoint makes sure users have the correct permissions, helping secure systems.
10. RSA SecurID
RSA SecurID is another powerful Identity and Access Management (IAM) software that covers essential security features.
This IAM solution is particularly useful for organizations that need to manage a large number of passwords while avoiding security breaches.
Features in RSA SecurID:
- Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): RSA SecurID provides MFA for enhanced security, protecting users against unauthorized access.
- Risk-Based Authentication: Risk-based authentication dynamically adjusts security based on user behavior and risk factors.
- Challenges with Cloud Integration: Some users have mentioned that integrating RSA SecurID with certain cloud applications can be challenging.
How to Choose a Perfect Identity and Access Management (IAM) Software?
Integration Capabilities
We’ve already covered how to select the best IAM software. However, It’s important to think about how well an IAM solution will integrate with your present configuration before selecting one.
Aside from this, It's also good to think about how well it connects with third-party programs, works with hybrid work environments, and functions with the infrastructure and data pipelines you already have.
Software Features and Performance
Start by looking for features like Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), Role-Based Access Control (RBAC), and Single Sign-On (SSO) in IAM software. These characteristics contribute to seamless and safe access control.
Workflows that are easily customizable and easily integrated with your current setup should be features of your program. In addition, it ought to feature more sophisticated security features like Privileged Access Management (PAM).
Flexibility and Customization
Look for options that let you customize workflows, access controls, and security policies to fit your business processes.
When doing so, confirm that the software is compatible with your setup—whether it's on-premises, in the cloud, or a combination of both—and that it supports various authentication techniques like biometrics and multi-factor authentication.
To have accurate permissions across teams, Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) that is customizable is almost mandatory.
Compliance and Regulatory Requirments
In order to streamline audits, ensure that the software complies with compliance standards like as GDPR, HIPAA, and PCI-DSS and has features for automatic reporting. Also, to identify and address compliance issues promptly, real-time monitoring and notifications are also essential.
IAM solutions help make sure that there is solid documentation and reliable vendor assistance. This helps software in keeping up-to-date with shifting laws and industry-specific audit requirements.
User Experience and Data Security
Pay attention to solutions with self-service capabilities for things like password resets and easy-to-use features like Single Sign-On (SSO). These kinds of things reduce the demand for IT support while increasing user productivity.
For active security, confirm that the program has threat detection and real-time monitoring. A strong IAM solution must strike a balance between easy access and good security.
Why Infisign is an Identity and Access Management (IAM) Software Worth Trying
While there are several different IAM software available, working with one that is versatile and curated for your company can make a huge difference.
With Infisign, we help implement multiple levels of security with RBAC, MFA, and Biometrics while enabling a single-sign-on framework to help make sure your data pipelines stay secure.
Alongside this, Our team has a quick turnaround and solves issues promptly - which is not the case with most IAM tools. Questions to know more? Why not try a free trial?
FAQs for IAM Tools
What are the four pillars of an IAM solution?
The four pillars of an IAM solution are authentication, authorization, user management, and a central user repository. These components work together to make sure there is secure and efficient identity and access management within your company.
What are IAM protocols?
IAM protocols are standardized methods for implementing IAM software in an organization. Some of these include AML, OAuth, OpenID Connect, LDAP, and Kerberos. With this, each protocol serves specific purposes in the IAM ecosystem, such as enabling single sign-on or managing user authentication across different systems
Which IAM tool is the best?
When it comes to the best IAM tool, there isn't a one-size-fits-all solution for any organization. The optimal choice depends on an organization's specific needs, scale, and existing infrastructure. That said, software like Infisign offer a versatile IAM framework that be customized to your business.
