Quick Overview
- 1#1: Okta - Comprehensive identity and access management platform with adaptive multi-factor authentication using biometrics, push notifications, and risk-based policies.
- 2#2: Cisco Duo - User-friendly MFA solution providing continuous device trust verification, push authentication, and phishing-resistant features.
- 3#3: Microsoft Entra ID - Cloud identity service offering integrated MFA with passwordless options, conditional access, and seamless Microsoft ecosystem integration.
- 4#4: Ping Identity - Intelligent identity platform delivering risk-adaptive MFA, FIDO2 support, and decentralized identity capabilities.
- 5#5: Auth0 - Developer-focused identity platform with customizable MFA including OTP, WebAuthn, and social logins.
- 6#6: OneLogin - Unified access management tool providing MFA via SMS, TOTP, push, and biometrics for workforce and customer identities.
- 7#7: RSA SecurID - Robust authentication suite supporting hardware tokens, software OTP, and cloud-based MFA for high-security environments.
- 8#8: Authy - Cloud-synced authenticator app enabling multi-device TOTP, push authentication, and backup for secure 2FA.
- 9#9: Google Authenticator - Simple open-source mobile app generating time-based one-time passwords for TOTP-based multi-factor authentication.
- 10#10: Microsoft Authenticator - Versatile authenticator app supporting TOTP, push approvals, passwordless sign-in, and Microsoft account recovery.
These tools were selected based on a focus on advanced features (e.g., biometrics, FIDO2, risk-based policies), reliability, user experience, and overall value, ensuring they cater to both organizational and individual needs effectively.
Comparison Table
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is essential for strengthening digital security, with various software tools designed to address diverse organizational needs. This comparison table explores key options such as Okta, Cisco Duo, Microsoft Entra ID, Ping Identity, Auth0, and more, equipping readers to evaluate features like compatibility, ease of use, and scalability to find the right fit.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Okta Comprehensive identity and access management platform with adaptive multi-factor authentication using biometrics, push notifications, and risk-based policies. | enterprise | 9.8/10 | 9.9/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.4/10 |
| 2 | Cisco Duo User-friendly MFA solution providing continuous device trust verification, push authentication, and phishing-resistant features. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | Microsoft Entra ID Cloud identity service offering integrated MFA with passwordless options, conditional access, and seamless Microsoft ecosystem integration. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 4 | Ping Identity Intelligent identity platform delivering risk-adaptive MFA, FIDO2 support, and decentralized identity capabilities. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 5 | Auth0 Developer-focused identity platform with customizable MFA including OTP, WebAuthn, and social logins. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 6 | OneLogin Unified access management tool providing MFA via SMS, TOTP, push, and biometrics for workforce and customer identities. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 7 | RSA SecurID Robust authentication suite supporting hardware tokens, software OTP, and cloud-based MFA for high-security environments. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 8 | Authy Cloud-synced authenticator app enabling multi-device TOTP, push authentication, and backup for secure 2FA. | other | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 9 | Google Authenticator Simple open-source mobile app generating time-based one-time passwords for TOTP-based multi-factor authentication. | other | 8.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 9.5/10 | 10.0/10 |
| 10 | Microsoft Authenticator Versatile authenticator app supporting TOTP, push approvals, passwordless sign-in, and Microsoft account recovery. | other | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.0/10 | 9.5/10 |
Comprehensive identity and access management platform with adaptive multi-factor authentication using biometrics, push notifications, and risk-based policies.
User-friendly MFA solution providing continuous device trust verification, push authentication, and phishing-resistant features.
Cloud identity service offering integrated MFA with passwordless options, conditional access, and seamless Microsoft ecosystem integration.
Intelligent identity platform delivering risk-adaptive MFA, FIDO2 support, and decentralized identity capabilities.
Developer-focused identity platform with customizable MFA including OTP, WebAuthn, and social logins.
Unified access management tool providing MFA via SMS, TOTP, push, and biometrics for workforce and customer identities.
Robust authentication suite supporting hardware tokens, software OTP, and cloud-based MFA for high-security environments.
Cloud-synced authenticator app enabling multi-device TOTP, push authentication, and backup for secure 2FA.
Simple open-source mobile app generating time-based one-time passwords for TOTP-based multi-factor authentication.
Versatile authenticator app supporting TOTP, push approvals, passwordless sign-in, and Microsoft account recovery.
Okta
enterpriseComprehensive identity and access management platform with adaptive multi-factor authentication using biometrics, push notifications, and risk-based policies.
Adaptive MFA that uses AI-driven risk signals for context-aware authentication policies
Okta is a leading cloud-based identity and access management (IAM) platform renowned for its robust multi-factor authentication (MFA) capabilities. It secures user access to applications and resources through diverse methods like push notifications via Okta Verify, biometrics, TOTP, SMS, and hardware tokens. Okta's Adaptive MFA intelligently assesses risk factors such as device, location, and behavior to enforce appropriate authentication levels dynamically.
Pros
- Comprehensive MFA options including adaptive, passwordless, and phishing-resistant methods
- Seamless integration with over 7,000 pre-built apps and APIs
- Enterprise-grade scalability with advanced threat detection and reporting
Cons
- Premium pricing can be steep for small businesses
- Initial setup requires technical expertise for complex deployments
- Reliance on cloud infrastructure may concern highly regulated on-prem environments
Best For
Large enterprises and mid-sized organizations needing scalable, adaptive MFA integrated with a broad ecosystem of SaaS and on-premises applications.
Pricing
Subscription-based starting at ~$2/user/month for basic MFA in Workforce Identity Cloud, up to $15+/user/month for advanced adaptive features; custom enterprise pricing.
Cisco Duo
enterpriseUser-friendly MFA solution providing continuous device trust verification, push authentication, and phishing-resistant features.
Duo Universal Prompt, a unified interface that simplifies and secures all authentication factors in one streamlined experience
Cisco Duo is a leading multi-factor authentication (MFA) solution that provides secure user verification through methods like push notifications, biometrics, SMS passcodes, hardware tokens, and WebAuthn. It supports seamless integration with thousands of cloud and on-premises applications, including VPNs, SSO platforms, and remote desktops. Duo's adaptive authentication uses risk-based policies and device health checks to enforce contextual access controls, reducing unauthorized access risks.
Pros
- Comprehensive authentication methods including phishing-resistant Duo Push and biometrics
- Seamless integrations with over 300+ apps and strong enterprise scalability
- Adaptive policies with device trust and continuous monitoring for risk-based access
Cons
- Higher pricing tiers required for advanced features like risk analytics
- Mobile app dependency for optimal push notifications may not suit all environments
- Steeper learning curve for complex policy configurations in large deployments
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises needing scalable, adaptive MFA with deep integrations for hybrid environments.
Pricing
Starts at $3/user/month (Essentials), $7/user/month (Advantage), $9/user/month (Premier); volume discounts and custom enterprise pricing available.
Microsoft Entra ID
enterpriseCloud identity service offering integrated MFA with passwordless options, conditional access, and seamless Microsoft ecosystem integration.
Risk-based conditional access that dynamically enforces MFA using AI-driven identity protection signals
Microsoft Entra ID, formerly Azure Active Directory, is a cloud-based identity and access management platform offering robust multi-factor authentication (MFA) to secure user sign-ins across applications and services. It supports diverse MFA methods including Microsoft Authenticator app push notifications, SMS/voice calls, OATH tokens, FIDO2 security keys, and passwordless options like Windows Hello. The service excels in enterprise environments with conditional access policies that enforce MFA based on risk signals, device compliance, location, and user behavior.
Pros
- Seamless integration with Microsoft 365, Azure, and thousands of SaaS apps
- Advanced risk-based adaptive MFA and conditional access policies
- Supports passwordless authentication and broad MFA method compatibility
Cons
- Complex setup and management for non-Microsoft admins
- Premium MFA features require paid licenses beyond free tier
- Limited customization outside Microsoft ecosystem
Best For
Enterprises heavily invested in the Microsoft ecosystem needing scalable, policy-driven MFA for thousands of users.
Pricing
Free tier includes basic MFA; Entra ID P1 at $6/user/month adds conditional access; P2 at $9/user/month for advanced risk detection.
Ping Identity
enterpriseIntelligent identity platform delivering risk-adaptive MFA, FIDO2 support, and decentralized identity capabilities.
Intelligent adaptive authentication that uses AI-driven risk scoring to enforce MFA dynamically based on user behavior, location, and device trust
Ping Identity provides a comprehensive identity and access management (IAM) platform with robust multi-factor authentication (MFA) capabilities through solutions like PingOne and PingID. It supports a wide array of authentication methods including biometrics, push notifications, SMS, email, FIDO2 keys, and hardware tokens, with adaptive risk-based policies that adjust security dynamically. Ideal for enterprises, it integrates deeply with legacy systems, cloud environments, and directories like Active Directory, enabling secure access across hybrid infrastructures.
Pros
- Extensive MFA method support including advanced options like FIDO2 and biometrics
- Adaptive, risk-based authentication for context-aware security
- Seamless integration with enterprise directories, apps, and zero-trust architectures
Cons
- Complex initial setup and configuration for non-experts
- Premium pricing that may not suit SMBs
- Relies on broader IAM platform, potentially overkill for pure MFA needs
Best For
Large enterprises with complex hybrid environments requiring scalable, adaptive MFA integrated into full IAM strategies.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically starting at $10,000+ annually based on user count, features, and deployment scale; contact sales for quotes.
Auth0
enterpriseDeveloper-focused identity platform with customizable MFA including OTP, WebAuthn, and social logins.
Adaptive MFA that dynamically enforces authentication based on contextual risk factors like IP reputation and user behavior
Auth0 is a versatile identity platform that excels in Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) by offering a wide array of methods including TOTP, SMS, push notifications via the Guardian app, WebAuthn, and biometrics. It integrates seamlessly into web, mobile, and API applications, providing adaptive MFA that triggers based on risk signals like location or device. Acquired by Okta, it delivers enterprise-scale security with compliance features for standards like GDPR and SOC 2.
Pros
- Supports diverse MFA methods including adaptive and passwordless options
- Developer-friendly with SDKs and extensive documentation
- High scalability and reliability for global applications
Cons
- Pricing escalates quickly with monthly active users and advanced features
- Complex configurations can overwhelm non-developers
- Some MFA capabilities locked behind enterprise tiers
Best For
Development teams building custom apps or SaaS products needing robust, flexible MFA integration.
Pricing
Freemium with free tier up to 7,500 MAU; paid plans from $23/month for Essentials, scaling to Enterprise custom pricing based on MAU and features.
OneLogin
enterpriseUnified access management tool providing MFA via SMS, TOTP, push, and biometrics for workforce and customer identities.
MFA Anywhere: agentless MFA enforcement across desktops, servers, VPNs, and cloud apps via RADIUS, SAML, and proxy support
OneLogin is a cloud-based identity and access management (IAM) platform that delivers robust multi-factor authentication (MFA) alongside SSO and user provisioning. It supports diverse MFA methods including TOTP apps, push notifications, SMS, biometrics, FIDO2, and hardware tokens, with adaptive policies based on risk and context. Designed for seamless integration with over 7,000 pre-built applications, it enables secure access management without agents for many scenarios.
Pros
- Extensive MFA options including adaptive and passwordless authentication
- Agentless deployment for broad app coverage
- Intuitive admin console with detailed reporting and analytics
Cons
- Higher pricing for enterprise-scale deployments
- Initial setup complexity for custom integrations
- Limited standalone MFA without full IAM commitment
Best For
Mid-sized businesses and enterprises needing integrated IAM with flexible, scalable MFA.
Pricing
Free for up to 5 users; paid plans start at $4 per active user/month (Essentials), scaling to $8+ for Advanced/Enterprise with custom quotes.
RSA SecurID
enterpriseRobust authentication suite supporting hardware tokens, software OTP, and cloud-based MFA for high-security environments.
Exact ID risk engine for behavioral and contextual adaptive authentication
RSA SecurID is an enterprise-grade multi-factor authentication (MFA) solution that provides secure access to applications, VPNs, and networks using hardware tokens, software authenticators, and modern methods like biometrics and push notifications. It features risk-based authentication through the Exact ID engine, which analyzes user behavior and device context to determine access risk. The platform supports hybrid deployments, integrating with identity providers like Okta and Microsoft Azure AD for comprehensive security.
Pros
- Proven reliability in high-security enterprise environments with decades of deployment history
- Comprehensive authentication methods including OTP, FIDO2, biometrics, and risk-based analytics
- Scalable cloud and on-premises options with strong API integrations
Cons
- Complex initial setup and management requiring specialized IT expertise
- Higher pricing suited mainly for large organizations
- Legacy hardware token dependency can add logistical challenges
Best For
Large enterprises and government organizations requiring robust, scalable MFA with advanced risk analytics and deep system integrations.
Pricing
Custom enterprise licensing based on user count; typically starts at $5-10 per user/month with volume discounts and additional fees for hardware tokens.
Authy
otherCloud-synced authenticator app enabling multi-device TOTP, push authentication, and backup for secure 2FA.
Encrypted cloud backups enabling effortless multi-device synchronization
Authy is a mobile-first two-factor authentication (2FA) app developed by Twilio that generates time-based one-time passwords (TOTP) to secure online accounts across services. It excels in syncing codes across multiple devices through encrypted cloud backups, eliminating the need to reconfigure on new phones. Supporting biometric unlock and push notifications for compatible services, Authy prioritizes convenience for users managing numerous logins.
Pros
- Seamless multi-device sync with encrypted cloud backups
- Intuitive mobile interface with biometric support
- Completely free for personal and commercial use
- Push authentication for select services
Cons
- Desktop apps discontinued in 2024, mobile-only now
- Heavy reliance on smartphone access
- Ownership by Twilio raises some privacy concerns
- Backup recovery requires account setup
Best For
Users prioritizing easy, free 2FA with automatic backups and multi-device access on smartphones.
Pricing
Free for all users with no paid tiers or limits.
Google Authenticator
otherSimple open-source mobile app generating time-based one-time passwords for TOTP-based multi-factor authentication.
Seamless QR code scanning for instant setup with virtually any TOTP-supporting service
Google Authenticator is a free mobile app that generates time-based one-time passwords (TOTPs) for two-factor authentication across thousands of online services. Users set it up by scanning a QR code provided by the service, enabling secure login verification via a rotating 6-digit code that works entirely offline. Recent updates include optional cloud sync across Android/iOS devices and account transfer capabilities via QR codes.
Pros
- Completely free with no ads or subscriptions
- Reliable offline TOTP generation with minimal battery drain
- Universal compatibility with any standard TOTP-enabled service
Cons
- No support for push notifications or biometric prompts
- No native desktop or web version
- Cloud sync requires a Google account, raising privacy concerns for some
Best For
Users seeking a simple, lightweight TOTP app for personal 2FA without needing advanced enterprise features or cross-platform sync.
Pricing
Free forever; no paid tiers or in-app purchases.
Microsoft Authenticator
otherVersatile authenticator app supporting TOTP, push approvals, passwordless sign-in, and Microsoft account recovery.
Passwordless sign-in with biometric approval and number matching for enhanced security on Microsoft accounts
Microsoft Authenticator is a free mobile app designed for multi-factor authentication (MFA), generating time-based one-time passwords (TOTP), push notifications, and supporting passwordless sign-ins via biometrics or PIN. It integrates seamlessly with Microsoft services like Azure AD, Office 365, and Outlook, while also supporting third-party accounts through QR code scanning. Additional features include cloud backups for easy recovery across devices and password autofill capabilities.
Pros
- Seamless integration with Microsoft ecosystem for enterprise users
- Multiple MFA methods including TOTP, push approvals, and biometrics
- Free with secure cloud backup and cross-device sync
Cons
- Backup and sync tied to Microsoft account, limiting flexibility
- Occasional delays or issues with push notifications
- Less intuitive for non-Microsoft services compared to dedicated alternatives
Best For
Enterprise users and individuals deeply integrated into Microsoft services like Office 365 who need reliable, free MFA.
Pricing
Completely free for all features.
Conclusion
Evaluating top multi-factor authentication software reveals a strong landscape, with Okta emerging as the top choice for its comprehensive identity and access management, adaptive MFA, and biometric capabilities. Cisco Duo stands out for user-friendliness and continuous device trust, while Microsoft Entra ID excels in integrated, passwordless features and seamless ecosystem integration—each addressing different needs effectively.
Elevate your security by trying Okta, where advanced protection and intuitive design come together to safeguard your digital assets.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison