authentik vs Microsoft Entra ID
authentik
authentik is an open-source identity provider focused on flexibility and versatility. It supports SAML, OAuth2, OpenID Connect, LDAP, SCIM, and RADIUS protocols. It provides a modern UI for user self-service, admin management, and can act as a full identity provider or authentication proxy.
Pros
- Fully open source with active development
- Modern, polished admin UI
- Supports all major identity protocols
- Easy Docker/Kubernetes deployment
- Flexible flow-based authentication engine
Cons
- Younger project than Keycloak
- Smaller community and ecosystem
- Enterprise features require paid license
- Limited enterprise support options
Pricing: Free (Open Source) / Enterprise from contact
Microsoft Entra ID
Microsoft Entra ID (formerly Azure Active Directory) is Microsoft's cloud identity platform and the backbone of authentication for Microsoft 365, Azure, and Windows. Because it ships with nearly every M365 or Microsoft 365 Business plan, it's the default identity provider for a huge share of the market. Entra ID includes Conditional Access for risk-based policies, Privileged Identity Management, and deep integration with Windows device trust.
Pros
- Included free or near-free with most Microsoft 365 plans
- Deep integration across the Microsoft ecosystem
- Strong conditional access and identity protection
- Massive deployment base and long-term stability
Cons
- Less polished for non-Microsoft SaaS integrations
- Licensing complexity (P1 vs P2, add-ons, bundled skus)
- Admin UI is fragmented across multiple Azure portals
- Ties you deeper into the Microsoft ecosystem
Pricing: Free tier with M365; P1 $6/user/mo; P2 $9/user/mo