Okta is a prominent player in the identity access management (IAM) space, with a comprehensive suite of features designed to improve user access and enhance security.
This review provides an in-depth analysis of Okta's functionalities, pricing structure, advantages, and disadvantages, aiming to equip you with the necessary information to make an informed decision for your company.
What is Okta?
Founded in 2009, Okta is one of the leading identity and access management (IAM) solutions providers, based in San Francisco. This IAM provider allows enterprises to manage access of their tools, databases with user and role-based authentication.
Okta has become an industry standard for many with SSO, Multi-factor authentication, and user lifecycle management listed among its features.
To understand better, Okta is a workforce identity solution; however, for managing customer access, Auth0 is a solution built to simplify access for customers owned by Okta.
Key Features of Okta:
- Adaptable Multifactor Authentication (MFA): Okta's MFA goes beyond traditional password-based security by incorporating contextual analysis and diverse authentication methods.
- Single Sign-On (SSO): Okta's SSO simplifies user access to multiple applications with a single set of credentials, improving productivity and reducing password fatigue.
- Universal Directory: Okta's Universal Directory acts as a centralized repository for user identities, facilitating efficient management across various applications and devices.
- Login Approvals from Notifications: Okta enhances user convenience and security by enabling login approvals directly through device notifications.
- Customer Support: Okta offers customer support resources to assist organizations with the implementation, configuration, and ongoing use of the platform.
Okta Pricing
Okta, while reliable, is not at all transparent with its pricing - often relying on vendor lock-in and feature-based pricing, which can end up being quite expensive if not closely monitored.
It’s important to keep in mind that you will need to add these up for a complete IAM solution that is practical and functional to use. Here's a breakdown of some key feature costs:
MFA Pricing
- Base MFA: $3 per user per month. This provides fundamental multi-factor authentication capabilities.
- Adaptive MFA: $6 per user per month. This more advanced option adds contextual awareness to the authentication process, enhancing security.
SSO Pricing
- Base SSO: $2 per user per month. This enables single sign-on functionality for a set of applications.
- Adaptive SSO: $5 per user per month. This builds upon base SSO with adaptive security measures.
Okta Other Feature Pricing
- Universal Directory: $2 per user per month. This provides a centralized user directory for managing identities.
- Lifecycle Management: $4 per user per month. This feature automates user provisioning and de-provisioning processes.
- Privilege Access: $14 per user per month. This offers enhanced controls for managing privileged user access.
Overview of Okta’s Pricing
Meaning Okta can easily cost $15-60 per user for basic IAM functionality.
Also, it comes with a minimum $1500 contract, making it not suitable for smaller and medium-sized businesses looking to control overhead costs.
It's also worth keeping in mind that Okta charges SSO per tool integration per user - this means that if you have 10 tools and 100 users, this price for your SSO would become 10 x 100 (a $1000/month easily without even including MFA, Device passkeys, or another authentication feature)
Okta Features
Okta Usability and Interface
Factors to consider include the how easy it to navigate the administrative console. With this, it also deals with the ease of user onboarding and self-service, and the overall user experience across different devices and applications.
A well-designed interface can significantly enhance user adoption and reduce the burden on IT support. Key aspects we looked at when reviewing Okta include:
1. Administrative Console
User reviews consistently acknowledged the Okta Administrative Console for its robust security features, notably adaptive multi-factor authentication (MFA) and single sign-on (SSO), which improve access while enhancing protection.
Security professionals appreciate its integration capabilities and real-time threat insights. However, some users note that the initial setup can be complex and may require a dedicated IT resource.
2. User Onboarding
Okta's user onboarding is smooth in terms of security and efficiency. That said, some users mentioned some difficulty in getting set up.
With automated provisioning and deprovisioning, this app has timely access management, reducing security risks associated with manual errors.
3. User Experience
While Okta delivers excellent security and user experience, the initial setup can be challenging, especially for teams without prior IAM experience. However, once configured, users say the system runs smoothly with minimal ongoing effort.
- On G2 and Capterra, admins report that configuring policies, setting up SSO integrations, and fine-tuning access controls often require a steep learning curve.
- The interface, while clean, demands familiarity with identity protocols like SAML, SCIM, and OAuth.
- Some TrustRadius reviewers note that onboarding external applications may require custom logic or scripting, which can delay deployment.
Okta Mobile App
In today's mobile-centric world, the quality and functionality of an IAM provider's mobile app are crucial. The mobile app should enable users to securely access applications and perform essential tasks on the go. Key considerations for evaluating Okta's mobile app include:
Security on the Okta Mobile App
The Okta Mobile app employs robust security measures, including multi-factor authentication (MFA) via PIN, fingerprint, or Face ID, and supports passwordless options like WebAuthn and smart cards.
- It utilizes context-based authentication, assessing factors such as device and location to enhance security.
- Users are prompted to re-authenticate after 30 days of inactivity due to token expiration.
- A notable vulnerability (CVE-2024-10327) in Okta Verify for iOS was addressed in version 9.27.2, underscoring the importance of timely updates.
Functionality on the Okta Mobile App
The Okta Mobile App supports Okta Mobility Management (OMM) for device security and allows app access via native apps or browsers, depending on configuration.
However, it is incompatible with Okta FastPass. While the app enhances productivity, some users have reported issues like limited app sorting options and inconsistent native app redirection
Usability on the Okta Mobile App
Users can unlock the app using PIN, fingerprint, or Face ID, and manage passwords directly within the app.
However, some apps may require separate authentication, and certain features like file downloads are restricted on Android devices for security reasons.
Okta’s Key Features
1. Adaptable Multifactor Authentication
Okta's Adaptable Multifactor Authentication (MFA) represents a significant advancement in security by moving beyond traditional static passwords.
It employs a dynamic, risk-based approach to authentication, analyzing various contextual factors to determine the appropriate level of security for each login attempt. This adaptive nature allows Okta to strengthen security without unduly burdening users with excessive authentication prompts.
Okta's Adaptive MFA considers factors such as:
User Behavior
- Login frequency and patterns: This helps detect anomalies—like sudden spikes in activity—that could indicate a compromised account.
- Typical access times: The system learns when users usually access their accounts during the day or week. Attempts outside of those timeframes can trigger additional authentication
- History of successful and failed login attempts: Okta monitors login success rates to understand normal behavior over time. A spike in failed attempts may suggest an attack in progress, prompting stronger verification or blocking access.
- Device and Connection type: Okta identifies the devices and OS versions users typically log in. Unrecognized or outdated devices can be flagged as risky and require additional checks.
- Geographic location: Okta maps where the login is coming from geographically. If the location differs drastically from previous logins—or seems impossible based on recent activity—Okta can block access or require identity verification.
By analyzing these contextual factors, Okta's Adaptive MFA can dynamically adjust the authentication requirements.
For example, if a user logs in from their usual location and device, Okta may only require a single factor of authentication. However, if the user attempts to log in from an unfamiliar location or device, Okta may prompt for additional verification, such as a one-time code or biometric authentication.
Various Authentication Methods Okta Supports
- Okta Verify: Okta Verify is a mobile app that sends push notifications, generates time-based one-time passcodes (TOTP), and supports biometric logins like fingerprint or facial recognition. This method offers flexibility and convenience while maintaining a high level of security, especially against phishing attacks.
- SMS Codes: Users receive a unique, time-sensitive code via SMS during login. This adds a second layer of identity verification, especially useful when other methods are unavailable, but is slightly less secure due to SMS vulnerabilities.
- Email Codes: Okta sends a code to the user’s registered email address, which must be entered to complete authentication. This method is simple and familiar, making it accessible for less tech-savvy users or low-risk access scenarios.
- Security Keys (e.g., YubiKey): These are physical devices that plug into a computer or use NFC to verify a user's identity. They provide phishing-resistant authentication and are particularly valuable for high-privilege users or sensitive environments.
- Voice Calls: Okta initiates a phone call and provides an access code or verbal confirmation prompt. This method serves as a backup for users who can't access mobile apps or other forms of second-factor authentication, helping maintain access continuity without lowering security.
This flexibility allows organizations to choose the authentication methods that best suit their security requirements and user preferences.
2. Single Sign-On on Okta
Okta's Single Sign-On (SSO) is a core component of its IAM platform, providing users with seamless access to multiple applications with a single set of login credentials.
This eliminates the need for users to remember numerous usernames and passwords, reducing password fatigue and improving overall productivity.
Okta's SSO works by establishing a trust relationship between Okta and the applications that users need to access. When a user attempts to log in to an application, the application redirects the user to Okta for authentication. Okta verifies the user's credentials and, if successful, grants the user access to the application. This process is transparent to the user, who only needs to log in to Okta once to access all authorized applications.
SSO Protocols Supported By Okta
- SAML (Security Assertion Markup Language): SAML is an XML-based protocol that allows identity providers (like Okta) to authenticate users and pass authorization data to service providers. It enables secure, seamless access to cloud and enterprise applications without users needing to re-enter credentials.
- OAuth 2.0 (Open Authorization): OAuth 2.0 is a token-based framework that allows applications to access user resources without exposing credentials.
- It improves security by granting limited, scoped access—ideal for mobile and third-party app integrations.
- OpenID Connect: Built on top of OAuth 2.0, OpenID Connect adds an identity layer, allowing clients to verify a user's identity based on authentication performed by an authorization server. It’s widely used for modern web and mobile apps that require streamlined login experiences with reliable identity verification.
- WS-Federation (Web Services Federation): WS-Fed is a protocol used to enable federated identity and single sign-on across different security domains, typically in legacy or Microsoft-based systems. Supporting WS-Fed helps organizations transition older systems into modern identity workflows without sacrificing user access or security.
3. Universal Directory
Okta's Universal Directory serves as a centralized repository for user identities, providing a single source of truth for user information across the organization.
This simplifies user management, enhances security, and enables consistent access control across all applications and devices.
Okta's Universal Directory allows companies to:
- Store and manage user profiles: Usernames, passwords, contact information, and other relevant attributes.
- Organize users into groups: Facilitates efficient access control and policy management.
- Integrate with existing directories: Synchronizes user information with Active Directory, LDAP, and other directories.
- Manage user lifecycle: Automates user provisioning and de-provisioning processes. It also makes sure that users have the appropriate access throughout their employment lifecycle.
4. Login Approvals from Notifications
Okta enhances user convenience and security by enabling users to approve or deny login attempts directly from push notifications on their mobile devices. This provides a quick and easy way for users to verify their identity and prevent unauthorized access to their accounts.
When a user attempts to log in to an application, Okta sends a push notification to the user's registered mobile device. The notification displays details about the login attempt, such as the application being accessed, the location of the login, and the
5. Customer Support
Okta gives customer support to help with the use and upkeep of its platform. This support helps companies get the most out of Okta, with many users reporting that the services are efficient and reliable.
Some users have reported varying response times based on the issues being faced and the plan they choose to opt for.
This can be detrimental as many features require a dedicated IT professional to set up, and there is a lack of documentation readily available for some nuanced requirements.
The customer support of Okta helps to solve problems and assists with best practices uses.
- Gives various help options, including online resources and direct assistance.
- Gives guidance on the best ways to use Okta.
- Helps to fix issues and solve problems quickly.
Okta Reviews & Ratings
The reviews and ratings for Okta are positive, based on functionality.
Okta is seen as a scalable solution suitable for large companies. On the whole, high reliability and uptime are frequently mentioned as benefits. However, on the flip side, here’s a complete overview:
- On Captera, Okta has 4.5/5 stars, and on Gartner, it has 4.6 stars, with users applauding it for its easy use and advanced authentication features.
- On the flip side, some users report that implementation can be complex and time-consuming. Meaning you will likely need a security professional on board. While reliable, Okta can take some time to get up and running.
- Cost is a significant factor for many enterprise clients. Many users state that pricing can be a barrier, especially for smaller businesses, based on reviews on platforms like Gartner and GetApp.
- Aside from this, several users on Gartner, GetApp, and Capterra report occasional technical glitches or performance issues. Which, when considering the premium, is not the most ideal for companies with time-sensitive tasks.
Overall View of Okta
On the whole, the overall view of Okta oscillates dramatically based on who you ask.
- For enterprises, Okta is a reliable and secure IAM software that helps users control - however, many mention that the costing is not transparent, and once implemented, it can get expensive for companies scaling operations.
- Okta is definitely not an ideal option for smaller companies, with a minimal contract requirement of $1500/month, meaning it’s not ideal if you’re looking for cost control.
- However, if you’re willing to spend a lot of capital, the tool comes with reliable adaptive, MFA, SSO, User lifecycle management, among other features, each with its own price tag.
Infisign: The Best Okta Alternative
Infisign (IAM Suite, UniFed) is one of the best Okta alternatives in terms of features, and also comes with no hidden costs for integrations, directory sync, or device passkeys.
With IAM Suite for better workforce identity management and UniFed, a CIAM tool for a better accessibility experience, Infisign is versatile in access management.
Moreover, it comes with 6000+ APIs and SDKs for quick and easy integration to your full tech stack.
In terms of access control, Infisign meets benchmarks with:
- Advanced Passwordless Authentication: Fortify your perimeter with multi-factor authentication (MFA) that mitigates phishing and credential-based attacks. Infisign supports diverse authentication modalities, including OTPs, magic links, device passkeys, and biometric verification, enforcing strong authentication without user friction.
- Pricing: Infisign at a much more reasonable price point with all the advanced authentication frameworks included with the base price. This means no hidden costs or additional costs for essential IAM features which typically the case with software like Okta.
- Managed Password Authentication (MPWA): With Managed Password Web Authentication on Infisign allows access management to non-sso compatible applications, legacy apps and even web-based applications which removes the likelihood of shadow IT.
- Adaptive Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Implement risk-based authentication with dynamic MFA policies. These look at device posture, IP address, geolocation—to enforce appropriate authentication challenges, ensuring optimal security without impeding legitimate access.
- AI-Powered Access Automation: Automate user lifecycle management across collaborative platforms. Infisign's AI-driven capabilities accelerate user onboarding and offboarding, ensuring consistent access control across critical applications like Slack and Microsoft Teams.
- Secure Network Access Gateway: Extend zero-trust principles to legacy on-premises applications. Infisign's network access gateway enables secure, cloud-based access to on-premises resources, bridging the gap between legacy infrastructure and modern security requirements.
Want to know more about how Infisign outperforms Okta affordably? Reach out for a free demo!
FAQs about Okta
What is Okta used for?
Okta is a platform that helps companies manage and secure user access to various applications and services. It simplifies login processes and helps maintain security across different systems by centralizing identity management.
Who uses Okta?
Okta is used by a wide range of companies, but it is typically more suited for large enterprises across various industries. Any company that needs to manage user access to multiple applications and maintain security can benefit from Okta's services
What is the difference between Okta and Auth0?
Okta and Auth0 both handle identity and access management, but they cater to slightly different needs. Okta focuses on workforce identity and access management, helping companies manage employee access to applications. Auth0, on the other hand, is geared more towards customer identity and access management, assisting companies with managing customer logins and registrations for their applications.
