Best Extended Access Management (XAM) Software of 2025

Use the comparison tool below to compare the top Extended Access Management (XAM) software on the market. You can filter results by user reviews, pricing, features, platform, region, support options, integrations, and more.

Overview of Extended Access Management (XAM) Software

Extended Access Management (XAM) software is designed to address the challenges of modern work environments, where employees often use personal devices and unsanctioned applications. Traditional security tools may not effectively manage these scenarios, leading to potential security gaps. XAM solutions aim to provide comprehensive visibility and control over access to both managed and unmanaged resources, ensuring that only authorized users can access sensitive information.

By integrating with existing security infrastructures, XAM platforms enhance an organization's ability to monitor and control access across various endpoints and services. This approach not only strengthens security but also simplifies compliance reporting and reduces administrative overhead. As remote work and the use of diverse devices become more prevalent, XAM software plays a crucial role in safeguarding enterprise resources and maintaining operational integrity.

Features Provided by Extended Access Management (XAM) Software

1. Device Trust and Compliance: XAM ensures that only trusted devices can access company resources by assessing device health and security posture before granting access. It supports Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policies by evaluating personal devices' security status and provides self-remediation guidance to help users resolve compliance issues.
2. Application Visibility and Governance: The platform offers insights into all applications accessed within the organization, including unsanctioned or shadow IT applications. It automates access reviews, enforces policies to ensure appropriate access levels, and identifies redundant or underutilized software subscriptions to optimize expenditures.
3. AI and Agentic Access Management: XAM extends access management to AI agents and automated workflows, ensuring these entities operate within defined security parameters. Developers can utilize provided SDKs to securely manage secrets and credentials within AI-driven processes.
4. Integration and Interoperability: The software integrates seamlessly with existing Identity Providers (IdPs) like Okta, Microsoft Entra, and Google Workspace. It complements traditional Identity and Access Management (IAM) and Mobile Device Management (MDM) systems, filling gaps by securing access to unmanaged applications and devices without necessitating their replacement.
5. Monitoring, Reporting, and Compliance: XAM continuously monitors access attempts, device compliance, and application usage, providing real-time insights into potential security issues. It maintains detailed audit logs of user activities and supports organizations in meeting regulatory requirements by enforcing security policies and maintaining necessary records for audits.
6. User Experience and Productivity: The platform provides a centralized portal for users to access all authorized applications, ensuring consistent experiences across various devices. Its intuitive interfaces reduce the learning curve, encouraging adoption and adherence to security practices.

Why Is Extended Access Management (XAM) Software Important?

In today's dynamic work environments, where remote operations and the use of personal devices are commonplace, traditional access management tools often fall short. Extended Access Management (XAM) addresses this gap by providing a comprehensive framework that ensures secure access across all users, devices, and applications, regardless of their location or management status. By implementing XAM, organizations can effectively manage and monitor access, reducing the risk of unauthorized entry and potential data breaches.

Furthermore, XAM supports compliance with various regulatory standards by offering detailed auditing and reporting capabilities. This ensures that organizations can demonstrate adherence to data protection requirements and respond promptly to any security incidents. In essence, Extended Access Management is not just a security measure but a strategic approach to managing access in a way that aligns with modern operational needs and regulatory expectations.

Why Use Extended Access Management (XAM) Software?

1. Bridging the Access Trust Gap: Traditional Identity and Access Management (IAM) and Mobile Device Management (MDM) tools often fall short in today's dynamic work environments. XAM addresses this by ensuring secure access across all applications and devices, including those unmanaged or outside the purview of conventional IT controls.
2. Managing Shadow IT: Employees frequently use unauthorized applications to enhance productivity, leading to security blind spots. XAM provides visibility into these unsanctioned tools, allowing IT teams to monitor and manage them effectively.
3. Securing BYOD Environments: With the rise of Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policies, employees access company resources from personal devices. XAM ensures these devices meet security standards before granting access, mitigating potential risks.
4. Enhancing Compliance and Audit Readiness: Regulatory compliance requires detailed access logs and controls. XAM offers comprehensive auditing capabilities, helping organizations meet standards like GDPR and HIPAA.
5. Facilitating Remote Work: As remote work becomes commonplace, ensuring secure access outside traditional networks is crucial. XAM provides robust security measures for remote access, maintaining productivity without compromising safety.
6. Streamlining Access Management: Managing access rights manually can be error-prone and time-consuming. XAM automates provisioning and deprovisioning processes, reducing administrative overhead and enhancing efficiency.
7. Supporting AI and Machine Identities: With the integration of AI and automated tools, managing non-human identities becomes essential. XAM extends security protocols to these entities, ensuring consistent access controls across all users and systems.
8. Improving User Experience: Security measures shouldn't hinder user productivity. XAM balances security with user convenience, offering seamless access experiences while maintaining stringent security standards.

What Types of Users Can Benefit From Extended Access Management (XAM) Software?

• Remote and Hybrid Workers: Employees working outside the traditional office environment often use personal devices and unsanctioned applications. XAM ensures secure access to company resources, regardless of device or location, by verifying device health and enforcing access policies.
• IT and Security Teams: These teams gain centralized control and visibility over all user access points. XAM allows them to monitor and manage access across both managed and unmanaged devices and applications, closing security gaps left by traditional tools.
• Compliance Officers: XAM provides detailed reporting and auditing capabilities, helping organizations meet regulatory requirements by ensuring that only authorized users have access to sensitive data.
• Third-Party Contractors and Vendors: External partners often require access to internal systems. XAM facilitates secure, temporary access without the need to fully integrate these users into the company's primary IAM systems.
• Executives and Decision-Makers: With insights into access patterns and potential security risks, leadership can make informed decisions about resource allocation and risk management.

How Much Does Extended Access Management (XAM) Software Cost?

Extended Access Management (XAM) software pricing isn't one-size-fits-all—it hinges on your organization's unique needs and infrastructure. For smaller businesses, basic cloud-based solutions might start at a few thousand dollars annually, offering essential features like password management and session monitoring. However, as your requirements grow—say, integrating advanced threat analytics or automated workflows—the costs can escalate significantly. Large enterprises with complex IT environments might find themselves investing several hundred thousand dollars per year for comprehensive, on-premises solutions.

It's also important to consider the total cost of ownership beyond just the licensing fees. Implementation expenses, customization, training, and ongoing maintenance can add up quickly. Some vendors offer subscription models that bundle these services, while others may charge separately, potentially leading to unexpected costs down the line. Evaluating the full spectrum of expenses ensures that the chosen XAM solution aligns with both your security needs and budget constraints.

What Software Does Extended Access Management (XAM) Software Integrate With?

Extended Access Management (XAM) software is designed to integrate with various systems to enhance security and streamline operations. One key integration is with Human Resource Information Systems (HRIS), which allows for automated user provisioning and deprovisioning based on employment status changes. For instance, when an employee joins or leaves the company, their access rights can be automatically adjusted, reducing the risk of unauthorized access and easing the administrative burden on IT teams. This integration ensures that access controls are consistently applied in line with HR records, supporting compliance and security policies.

Another critical integration is with IT Service Management (ITSM) platforms. By connecting XAM with ITSM tools, organizations can automate workflows related to access requests, incident management, and change approvals. This integration facilitates a more responsive and efficient IT support environment, where access-related issues are promptly addressed, and changes are systematically tracked. Additionally, integrating XAM with Mobile Device Management (MDM) and Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) systems enables real-time assessment of device compliance and security posture. This ensures that only devices meeting the organization's security standards can access sensitive resources, reinforcing the overall security framework.

Extended Access Management (XAM) Software Risks

• Overly Broad Access Permissions: When users are granted more access than necessary, it opens doors for potential misuse. Whether intentional or accidental, excessive permissions can lead to unauthorized data exposure or system alterations.
• Neglected Access Reviews: Failing to regularly audit who has access to what can result in outdated or unnecessary permissions lingering, increasing the attack surface for potential breaches.
• Shadow IT and Unmanaged Applications: Employees sometimes use unauthorized apps to get their work done, bypassing official channels. These "shadow" tools aren't monitored by IT, posing significant security risks.
• Inadequate Control Over Non-Human Identities: Service accounts, bots, and other automated processes often have access privileges. Without proper oversight, these can be exploited by malicious actors.
• Delayed Deactivation of Access: When employees leave or change roles, their access should be promptly revoked. Delays in this process can leave sensitive systems vulnerable.
• Insufficient Device Compliance Checks: Allowing devices that don't meet security standards to access the network can introduce vulnerabilities, especially if those devices are compromised.
• Complexity Leading to Misconfigurations: The more complex the access management system, the higher the chance of configuration errors, which can inadvertently grant unauthorized access.
• Lack of Visibility into Access Activities: Without proper monitoring tools, it's challenging to detect unusual or unauthorized access patterns, delaying response to potential threats.
• Overreliance on Passwords: Despite advancements, some systems still depend heavily on passwords, which can be weak or reused, making them susceptible to breaches.
• Integration Challenges with Legacy Systems: Older systems might not seamlessly integrate with modern XAM solutions, leading to inconsistent access controls across the organization.

Questions To Ask Related To Extended Access Management (XAM) Software

1. How does the solution handle both human and non-human identities? In today's digital landscape, it's not just about managing employee access. Machines, applications, and IoT devices also require access controls. Ensure the XAM solution can effectively manage and secure these non-human identities alongside human users.
2. Can the software integrate seamlessly with our existing infrastructure? Your organization likely uses a mix of on-premises systems, cloud services, and various applications. The XAM solution should offer robust integration capabilities to work harmoniously with your current tech stack, minimizing disruptions and maximizing efficiency.
3. What level of granularity does the access control provide? Fine-grained access control is essential for enforcing the principle of least privilege. Determine if the solution allows you to set detailed permissions, ensuring users have access only to the resources necessary for their roles.
4. How does the system support compliance and auditing requirements? Compliance with regulations like GDPR, HIPAA, or ISO 27001 is non-negotiable for many organizations. The XAM software should provide comprehensive auditing capabilities, generating detailed logs and reports to demonstrate compliance and facilitate audits.
5. Is the solution scalable to accommodate organizational growth? As your organization expands, your access management needs will evolve. The XAM solution should be scalable, capable of handling increased users, devices, and applications without compromising performance or security.
6. What authentication methods are supported? Multi-factor authentication (MFA), single sign-on (SSO), and biometric authentication enhance security. Verify that the XAM software supports these methods, providing flexibility and strengthening your organization's security posture.
7. How user-friendly is the interface for administrators and end-users? A complex, unintuitive interface can hinder adoption and lead to errors. Assess the usability of the software for both administrators managing access controls and end-users requesting access, ensuring a smooth user experience.
8. What is the vendor's track record regarding security and support? Research the vendor's history in the industry. Look for any past security incidents, customer reviews, and the quality of their support services. A reliable vendor should have a strong reputation and offer responsive, knowledgeable support.
9. Does the solution offer real-time monitoring and alerts? Real-time monitoring allows for immediate detection of unauthorized access attempts or policy violations. The XAM software should provide instant alerts and detailed logs to enable swift response to potential security threats.
10. What is the total cost of ownership, including hidden expenses? Beyond the initial purchase price, consider implementation costs, training, maintenance, and potential upgrade fees. Understanding the total cost of ownership helps in budgeting and ensures there are no financial surprises down the line.