Access governance software is a no-brainer for companies looking to scale their security and compliance policies. Don’t have one yet? Well, it can save you both time and money.
But regardless, odds are you’re looking for an agile access governance solution for your company. Or maybe even, better compliance for signing up larger clients. Well, you’ve come to the right place!
What is Access Governance Software?
Access governance helps companies and other groups manage the accessibility of their database and techstack - making sure that only necessary individuals have access to resources. This is done through role management, access policies, access reviews, and real-time risk analysis based on specific conditions you decide are relevant.
When working with large enterprises access governance software adds both trust and compliance through a complete record of logs, changes, and accessibility records. This helps meet regional and international data privacy laws like GDPR, HIPAA, CCPA, and SOX - and in turn, affects the size and willingness of enterprises that hire or partner with you.
Top 10 Access Governance Software Solutions
1. Infisign
Suitable for both on-premises and cloud-based ecosystems, Infisign is one of the best zero-trust access governance software on this list. The software itself comes loaded with passwordless authentication, adaptive MFA, and single sign-on (SSO) for practicality. This means you can login to all tools and platforms you need to work with in one go - while you make sure there is watertight security across your company.
Unlike a lot of other access governance tools, Infisign has tenant-based pricing and comes with directory sync with its base plan.
In terms of convenience, with over 6000+ app integrations Infisign makes it easy to use with your existing tech-stack.
Most importantly it comes with AI Access Assist - which you can add to Teams or Slack and is why it’s the best access governance software on this list.
Key Features of Infisign
- Zero Trust Security: Continuously verifies user access to make sure there is minimal risk of breaches by using contextual authentication and advanced monitoring tools - Infisign also has SSO and passwordless authentication.
- Adaptive MFA: for access governance software adaptive MFA helps you add additional security that responds based on the level of risks. Some of these access methods include - biometric authentication, OTPs, push-notifications,
- Managed Password Access: This allows your team to access your tech stack and database with no actual visibility on the credentials meaning they can only access this through conditions you permit.
- Conditional Access: This allows you to control under what conditions users can access your files or tools this can be through specific devices, IP addresses, or geolocations.
- Attribute-Based Access Control: With this, companies can grant access to user-based attributes they set like specific emails or departments. This is just RBAC or role-based access control but one level deeper and lot more flexible.
- Passwordless Authentication: Has secure access with biometric methods and hardware tokens, eliminating the vulnerabilities of traditional passwords.
- Privileged Access Management: Safeguards critical system access by monitoring and restricting privileged accounts with enhanced controls.
- Automated Lifecycle Management: Helps with onboarding and offboarding processes with efficient automation, reducing administrative overhead.
2. SailPoint IdentityIQ
Although newer than some of the more well-established software like Okta, Sailpoint is an access governance software that can handle a lot of technical requirements.
The Access governance tool comes with a lot of flexibility with the end-team building APIs when requested to meet your specific requirements. That said, several users found the software hard to configure and set up - meaning it can be challenging to put in place.
The software comes with a wide range of Out-of-the-box (OOTB) integrations that don’t have any hidden costs (which is convenient). However - the features vary considerably based on the suite you opt for which is a drawback.
Key features of SailPoint
- Identity Governance: Allows visibility into user access to data, applications, and systems, supporting compliance and security mandates.
- Automated User Provisioning: Improves onboarding and offboarding by automating account creation and access removal based on roles.
- Password Management: Provides tools for secure password reset and management to enhance productivity and reduce IT workloads.
- Compliance Control: Has features to enforce access and financial policies, supporting adherence to regulations like GDPR and SOX.
3. JumpCloud
JumpCloud is one of the best IAM software solutions for access governance, offering compatibility with various operating systems, including Linux, Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android devices. That said, unlike software like Infisign, it comes with user-based pricing which can get expensive for a larger organization or companies as they scale.
On the whole, however, the software is easy to use. Some users mentioned the need to log in to each office application was a bit cumbersome. Doesn’t sound like a big deal? Well, some of the best access governance software - like Infisign or Okta, comes with universal SSO. This means they let you sign on to everything all at once.
Key features of JumpCloud
- Unified Directory Platform: Centralizes user identities and enables easy access across diverse IT environments, including cloud and on-premises systems.
- Cross-Platform Compatibility: Supports multiple operating systems, ensuring flexibility for managing Windows, macOS, and Linux devices.
- Single Sign-On (SSO): Provides a centralized gateway for accessing cloud services and enterprise applications, enhancing user convenience.
- Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Enforces strong security protocols with flexible authentication options for enhanced access control.
- Automated User Management: Quick onboarding, role assignment, and deprovisioning with automation tools.
4. OneLogin
OneLogin is a powerful software for access governance, as it’s both easy to use and has complete control over all applications. However, the software can have downtime some users suggest having an alternative way to log in to your software as it can be cumbersome when this happens.
In terms of features, the software is not as versatile as some of the other access governance tools on the market. Also given how it can have some downtime - it’s not the ideal choice for larger companies or enterprises.
Key features of One Identity
- Identity Lifecycle Management: Automates onboarding, role assignment, and access deprovisioning across the identity lifecycle.
- Access Certification: Allows compliance by reviewing and certifying user access rights periodically.
- Privileged Account Governance: Manages and secures privileged accounts to prevent unauthorized access to critical systems.
- Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Enhances security through additional layers of user authentication.
- Role Management: Defines and enforces access policies based on user roles to maintain consistency and compliance.
5. Okta Identity Governance
Okta is easily the most popular access governance software and comes with a large number of API integration options. However, it is not on the top of the list, as the dashboard can be cluttered to work depending on your needs. There are also a few users that mentioned issues with functionality which is not the case with the software mentioned above.
Aside from this, the software is still one of the best in terms of features - it’s quite easy to add and remove accounts. The application is an access governance tool, that allows you to control access for all applications from one place and has watertight security. That said, attribute mapping be a bit of a hurdle with this software.
Key features of Okta
- Unified Identity Platform: Okta provides a centralized platform for identity governance, simplifying access management across diverse environments, including employee, partner, and customer applications.
- Automated Access Reviews: With built-in tools for access review and self-service requests, Okta automates user access management to enhance security without slowing business operations.
- Advanced Risk-Based Authentication: Okta applies risk factors, such as location and device status, to determine authentication needs, providing adaptive security measures.
6. IBM Security Identity Governance and Intelligence (IGI)
IBM Security Identity Governance and Intelligence (IGI) is a leading access governance solution designed to improve and optimize user access management.
With its Access Risk Controls module, IGI identifies and mitigates potential risks by detecting Segregation of Duties (SoD) violations and managing access rights across multiple systems. It automates identity governance and makes sure that user entitlements are regularly reviewed and compliant with policies, minimizing security vulnerabilities.
Additionally, IGI works with target systems through its Identity Brokerage Adapters and Enterprise Connectors, offering a highly scalable solution.
Key Features of IBM Security Identity Governance
- Advanced Access Controls: Provides granular control for access policies, ensuring only authorized users gain access to sensitive resources.
- Compliance Automation: Automates identity compliance processes like access certifications and audits.
- Role Mining Capabilities: Identifies and refines roles based on user behavior and organizational needs.
- Integration Support: Connects easily with a wide range of enterprise applications.
7. RSA Identity Governance and Lifecycle Management Software
RSA Identity Governance and Lifecycle Management stands out as a leading access governance solution. It provides complete identity management capabilities, catering to complex enterprise needs. The software is known for features like automated policy enforcement, role management, and data access governance, all built on a sophisticated risk engine.
Some users highlight occasional challenges with customization, but the platform's real-time analytics capabilities make it a reliable choice for organizations aiming to strengthen compliance and security. Also, Its advanced automation and unified dashboards simplify managing identities across cloud and on-premises deployment
Key Features of RSA
- Complete Identity Visibility: Has in-depth insights into user access across all applications and systems.
- Automated Risk Analytics: Uses advanced analytics to detect access anomalies and prioritize identity risks.
- Policy-Based Management: Speeds-up identity lifecycle management with automated workflows and rule-based policies.
- Regulatory Compliance: Simplifies audits with detailed reporting and compliance tracking.
- Flexible and Scalable: Handles massive amounts of access data for enterprises of all sizes effectively.
8. Oracle Identity Governance
A standout feature of Oracle Identity Governance is its ability to conduct intelligent role mining, leveraging AI and machine learning to optimize role-based access and simplify governance.
It also includes flexible and scalable deployment options for both on-premises and cloud environments, offering high availability and failover support to meet enterprise needs. The system works with advanced analytics for real-time access certification, enhancing audit capabilities and allowing compliance with regulatory standards like SOX and GDPR.
Key Features of Oracle Identity Governance:
- Automated User Provisioning: Dynamic user onboarding and lifecycle management with minimal administrative overhead.
- Role-Based Access Control: Granular role assignments to enforce the principle of least privilege.
- Advanced Risk Analytics: AI-powered tools for detecting anomalies and assessing compliance risks.
- Compliance Reporting: Predefined and customizable audit templates to address regulatory requirements.
9. Microsoft Entra ID
Microsoft Entra ID, formerly known as Azure Active Directory (Azure AD) is a popular software in access governance. This software provides businesses with a complete framework for identity and access management. It also makes sure there is secure and controlled access to enterprise resources.
Another prominent feature is the Microsoft Entra ID Governance, which facilitates easy management of employee and guest access. The system has tools like entitlement management, access reviews, and workflows to improve user provisioning and deprovisioning processes.
Key Features of Microsoft Entra ID
- Device-Based Policies: Allows access only from compliant and secure devices.
- Location-Based Access: Restricts or grants access based on geographic conditions.
- Session Controls: Applies policies like MFA or session limitations during access attempts.
- Cloud Sync: Provides lightweight, fast identity synchronization for smaller directories.
10. Duo Security
Duo Security is a top-tier access governance software, known for its robust security features and ease of use. This software has strong multi-factor authentication (MFA), including the use of push notifications, biometrics, and passwordless authentication.
Duo also has a risk-based authentication system, responding dynamically to potential threats, and providing adaptive security measures based on user context.
Key features of Duo Security
- Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Duo Security supports a variety of authentication methods, including push notifications, phone callbacks, SMS passcodes, and hardware tokens, making it a versatile solution for enhancing security.
- Risk-Based Authentication: Duo uses risk-based authentication to assess factors like device type, location, and user behavior to determine the level of authentication needed.
- Mobile Authentication: Duo has easy-to-use mobile authentication through its app, providing users with push notifications, phone calls, and real-time tokens for secure access.
- Trusted Endpoints: With this feature, Duo makes sure that only trusted devices are allowed access, enhancing security by confirming device registration before granting permission.
Benefits of Using Access Governance Software
- Better Visibility and Security on Sensitive Information: Small and large organizations protect their sensitive data more effectively by automatically monitoring who has access to different systems and files, reducing the chance of data breaches.
- Quicker Workflow and Processes: IT teams save significant time by automating access reviews and permissions management, rather than handling each request manually. This automation typically reduces the workload by 60-70%.
- Better Compliance: Companies maintain better compliance with regulations like GDPR and HIPAA since the software tracks and documents all access changes, making audit preparation much simpler and more accurate. The software catches risky access combinations that might break security rules, like when one person has too many high-level permissions that shouldn't go together.
- Improved Onboarding and Offboarding: New employees get the right system access faster through automated onboarding processes, letting them start work sooner and reducing strain on IT support teams.
- Lower Security Risks and Data Breaches: Security risks drop because the software quickly removes access when people leave the company or change roles, closing security gaps that often occur with manual processes.
- Lower Overhead Costs: Organizations save money by identifying and removing unused access rights and licenses, often cutting software licensing costs by 20-30%. IT departments also work more efficiently by setting up automatic access rules based on job roles, reducing the time spent on routine access management tasks.
- Faster Response to Threats: Companies respond faster to security threats since the software alerts them immediately about suspicious access patterns or unauthorized permission changes.
Key Features to Look for in the Most Suitable Access Governance Software
RBAC, ABAC, and PAM
When evaluating access governance tools, Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) has predefined roles for better permission management, while Attribute-Based Access Control (ABAC) incorporates dynamic rules based on contexts such as devices or environments.
Privileged Access Management (PAM) focuses on securing high-risk accounts by enforcing session controls and real-time monitoring.
Together, these features strengthen access policies and adapt to diverse security needs.
Compliance Management
As any IT leader knows, maintaining compliance with industry standards requires advanced access governance tools tailored to regulatory demands.
This means using audit-ready features, automated reporting, and policy-driven access management—key to identifying gaps and reducing risk exposure. But it majorly means easy support for frameworks like GDPR or HIPAA.
Automated Provisoning and Deprovisioing
Automated provisioning and deprovisioning simplify account lifecycle management by dynamically assigning or revoking access based on predefined policies. This approach reduces manual errors and supports compliance requirements by maintaining accurate access records.
Centralized workflows further enhance transparency, allowing IT teams to oversee access activities effectively.
With features like real-time updates and audit trails, automated systems refine access governance processes.
Multi-Factor Authentication
As any security-focused leader knows, safeguarding access requires advanced strategies like multi-factor authentication (MFA) for complete protection.
This means incorporating multiple verification methods—biometric scans, device-based codes, or tokenized authentication—to reduce the risk of unauthorized access. But it majorly means allowing compatibility with diverse user needs and technologies.
APIs and Integrations
While access governance software varies, a standout feature of better access solutions is their support for APIs. This helps in allowing custom workflows and real-time data exchange. Moreover, this also facilitates dynamic updates to user permissions across connected systems.
Additionally, API-based configurations enhance visibility, enabling better monitoring of access points.
With functionalities that accommodate diverse system interactions, APIs refine the efficiency of governance frameworks.
Why Choose Infisign as Your Access Governance Software Solution?
In terms of scalability and flexibility, Infisign is quite honestly the best access governance software for companies of all sizes. With easy-to-use compliance frameworks, AI access assist, and automated provisioning and deprovising it can definitely speed up your workflow.
Also unlike other software, Infisign comes with limitless data migration and directory-sync capabilities without any hidden cost!
So if you’re looking for access governance software that is easy to use with your existing tech stack - why not get our free trial.
See how infisign can work for you without spending a dollar!