Choosing the right identity and access management (IAM) solution can make a big difference for small businesses looking to secure user access, simplify IT operations, and stay compliant. With plenty of options on the market, it's important to find a platform that balances robust features with ease of use and affordability.
Here are five IAM tools currently ranked on G2's Identity and Access Management (IAM) software page that are especially well-suited for small business needs:
JumpCloud is a cloud-native directory platform that combines user identity, device management, and SSO capabilities into one centralized system. It’s especially appealing for small businesses that want to simplify IT without the complexity of legacy infrastructure. Features like zero-touch enrollment, cross-platform support (Windows, macOS, Linux), and remote user management are key strengths. Plus, it offers a generous free tier, making it accessible for small teams.
AWS Identity and Access Management (IAM)
AWS IAM is built for managing access within the AWS cloud ecosystem. It offers granular permission controls, multi-factor authentication (MFA), and role-based access—all essential for small businesses running infrastructure on AWS. However, it does have a steeper learning curve and may be best for teams with technical expertise or an existing AWS footprint.
Rippling goes beyond traditional IAM by integrating access control with HR and IT management. Small businesses benefit from its ability to automatically provision and deprovision employee access based on role changes or departures. It supports hundreds of integrations and offers centralized workflows for both people ops and device management, making it a strong option for lean teams managing both HR and IT functions.
Okta is a leader in the IAM space with strong single sign-on (SSO), adaptive MFA, and lifecycle management tools. For small businesses, Okta offers scalable pricing, an intuitive admin interface, and quick integrations with thousands of apps. It’s a solid choice for growing teams that need enterprise-grade security without the overhead of a large IT department.
Microsoft Entra ID (formerly Azure Active Directory)
Microsoft Entra ID is a logical pick for businesses already using Microsoft 365. It provides seamless access management, conditional access policies, and identity protection features. Small businesses benefit from its tight integration with Microsoft tools and cloud services, although it may be less appealing for companies outside the Microsoft ecosystem.
Whether you're prioritizing ease of use, integrations, or budget-friendliness, each of these platforms offers something unique for small businesses aiming to strengthen their access management. How has your experience been with these tools?