OpenMSP
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Authentik

Identity and Access Management (IAM)

Open Source
OpenFrame Selected
Free Tier
Paid Plans
E
Enterprise
Self-hosted
OpenMSP Score
92
97
Reddit Impact Score
Github Score
1B
22KStars
1KForks
22KCommits
OtherLicense
Jul 6, 2026Last commit

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Okta
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Azure Active Directory
Huntress
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Duo Security
Duo Security
Authentik is a comprehensive, modern, and highly flexible open-source identity provider (IdP) and single sign-on (SSO) solution designed to meet the evolving needs of contemporary IT infrastructure. Built with a focus on simplicity, security, and extensibility, Authentik serves as a centralized authentication and authorization platform that seamlessly integrates with existing systems while providing advanced identity management capabilities.
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Key Features

Open Source Flexibility

Complete open-source identity provider with full source code access, allowing unlimited customization, self-hosting, and integration without vendor lock-in or hidden costs.

Multi-Protocol Support

Comprehensive support for OAuth2, OpenID Connect, SAML2, LDAP, RADIUS, and SCIM protocols, enabling seamless integration with both modern and legacy applications.

Custom Authentication Flows

Flexible flow-based system allowing administrators to create custom authentication, registration, and authorization workflows tailored to specific organizational requirements.

Advanced MFA Support

Built-in multi-factor authentication with support for TOTP, WebAuthn/FIDO2, SMS, email, and push notifications, providing layered security for user access.

Container-Native Deployment

Designed for modern infrastructure with Docker, Kubernetes, and cloud-native deployment options, supporting automatic scaling and high availability configurations.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Complete Open Source

Fully open-source with no feature restrictions in the community version, providing complete transparency, customization capabilities, and freedom from vendor lock-in.

Extensive Protocol Support

Supports virtually all modern authentication protocols including OAuth2, SAML2, LDAP, and RADIUS, making it compatible with almost any application or service.

Modern Architecture

Built with modern technologies and designed for container deployment, offering excellent performance, scalability, and integration with cloud-native environments.

Cons

Self-Hosting Complexity

Requires technical expertise to deploy, maintain, and scale properly, including managing databases, security updates, and high availability configurations.

Resource Requirements

Requires minimum 2 CPU cores and 2GB RAM, making it more resource-intensive than some alternatives like Authelia for smaller deployments.

Limited Support Options

Community support only for free version, with commercial support available only through expensive enterprise plans, potentially limiting assistance for complex issues.

Feature Comparison

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Frequently Asked Questions

Getting Started

OpenMSP is The MSP Knowledge Hub & Community Platform designed specifically for Managed Service Providers seeking to optimize their technology stack, reduce vendor costs, and discover open-source alternatives. We combine a comprehensive vendor directory, open-source solution catalog, and integrated community discussions to help MSPs make informed decisions.
Yes, completely free. Browse vendors and tools, read comparisons, and join community discussions - no cost, no registration required. OpenMSP is community-supported and focused on empowering MSPs to reduce costs and improve operational efficiency through open-source technology.
We help MSPs identify cost-effective alternatives to expensive commercial solutions, provide transparent vendor information, and connect you with proven open-source alternatives. Our platform enables MSPs to make informed decisions about their technology investments.
No account required for browsing vendors, reading comparisons, or accessing community content. Creating a free account with SSO (Microsoft, Google, or Slack) allows you to participate in discussions and save your favorite tools.

Platform Information

OpenMSP is currently community-supported. We focus on providing value to the MSP community first. Any future monetization will keep the core platform free for MSPs while maintaining our independence and commitment to unbiased information.
We focus exclusively on MSP needs with transparent vendor information and open-source alternatives. No vendor partnerships or sponsored listings - just honest, community-driven information to help MSPs make better technology decisions. Our biggest value is our community where MSPs help each other with questions, setup guidance, and sharing real-world experiences.
Our community of MSP professionals helps verify and update information. We also maintain direct research on tools and vendors to ensure accuracy. Community members can report outdated information, and we work to keep everything current.
OpenMSP was founded by Michael Assraf, who has extensive experience in the MSP industry and product leadership. As the former CEO & Founder of Vicarius, Michael grew a startup from $0 to $9M ARR with 500+ customers and deep experience working with MSPs, partners, and fundraising. OpenMSP represents his commitment to empowering the MSP community through better technology decisions and cost optimization.

Open-Source Tools & Alternatives

We assess tools based on active development, community size, documentation quality, production deployments by MSPs, and available support options. Tools must meet strict criteria for reliability and enterprise readiness.
Many open-source projects offer multiple support options including community forums, commercial support from vendors, professional services, and our community discussions where experienced MSPs share implementation guidance.