JumpCloud MDM review: support for multi-factor authentication

JumpCloud was established in 2012 as an alternative to Microsoft Active Directory. Over time, they recognized the need for a comprehensive solution to manage user access in Linux to Amazon Web Services (AWS) and as an alternative to AD for accessing cloud infrastructure, Mac, and Windows machines. Consequently, JumpCloud has continued to innovate and expand its offerings, providing businesses a secure and efficient way to manage their IT resources.

One of the main benefits of using JumpCloud is its ability to streamline user access. Whether you need to provision, de-provision, or modify user accounts, JumpCloud makes it easy to manage user access across all your resources, including cloud infrastructure, Mac, and Windows machines. With JumpCloud, you can ensure your users have the access they need to do their jobs without compromising security.

Another advantage of JumpCloud is its focus on security. With JumpCloud, you can implement strong authentication and authorization policies that help keep your data and resources safe from unauthorized access. JumpCloud's cloud-based architecture means you always have the latest security updates and patches without manual intervention.

Finally, JumpCloud can help you simplify your IT infrastructure by consolidating your user management tools into a single, unified platform. This can save you time and money on IT management while also improving the overall efficiency of your organization.

If you want to enhance security, streamline user access, and simplify your IT infrastructure, JumpCloud is an excellent choice. With its powerful tools and expertise, JumpCloud can help you achieve your goals and take your business to the next level.

Plans and pricing

JumpCloud offers various plan tiers, including a free option and the ability to customize a plan for your company's specific needs. While a free trial is available for paid tiers, the duration is not specified.

Interestingly, JumpCloud Free includes "All Premium features" and the entire platform with a company email at no cost. However, it can only be utilized by ten users and 10 devices, and live chat support is only available for the first ten days.

The SSO Package is the most affordable paid tier, costing $8.50 per monthly user. If paid annually, the cost drops to $7 per user per month. It includes Core Cloud Directory, MFA, and Web SSO. There are also two optional extras: Device Management and Telemetry for $5 per user per month and Premium Support for $3 per user per month.

The Core Directory Package costs $13 per user per month or $11 per user per month when paid annually. It includes Access Management and Logging, which provides Directory Insights. However, Premium Support is an additional $3 per user per month.

Next is the JumpCloud Platform, which costs $17 per user per month or $15 per user per month when paid annually. It includes all of the features of the lower tiers, plus Device Management and Telemetry. Optional Premium Support is also available for an extra fee.

The top-tier option is PlatformPlus, which costs $20 per user per month or $18 per user per month when paid annually. It adds Zero Trust, Conditional Access Policies, and Device Trust to the feature set. Unlike the other tiers, it includes Premium Support, making it the better overall value.

Features

JumpCloud is an incredible platform that offers a wide range of features to support its services. Its basic features, available across all tiers, are pretty robust, including Cloud Directory, Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), and the JumpCloud Protect Authenticator App, providing a comprehensive security solution. With these features, you can be confident that your security needs are being met effectively.

In addition to these fundamental features, JumpCloud also provides Single Sign-On (SSO) and User Lifecycle Management, which are essential for a seamless user experience and efficient account management.

But wait, there's more! The higher tiers of JumpCloud offer even more advanced features, allowing you to manage your devices and systems more efficiently. Features such as device management, mobile device management (MDM), system insights, and patch management can elevate your operational capabilities and streamline your IT management processes.

Furthermore, JumpCloud goes the extra mile by offering services to assist with data migration and minimizing downtime during transitions. This level of support ensures that your organization can smoothly adapt to new systems and technologies without disruptions.

Support

If you need support, there are several ways to get it. Although there is a general phone number, it is not listed for support. However, there is a Help Center that offers many options to get support. Sometimes, a direct phone conversation can resolve the issue more quickly. Standard Support is included on all tiers.

The most direct method is via chat, but initially, you will chat with a chatbot. If you need to speak with a live support engineer, you will require Premium Support. There are also self-help options available, which are more comprehensive and better done than most. You can find articles grouped around topics such as "RADIUS-as-a-service" and "G Suite Integration," for example.

Final verdict

When it comes to cloud-based software solutions, JumpCloud's platform for a cloud directory is one that we find particularly powerful. Their solution offers several security features, including SSO, MDM, and MFA, all from a single platform. We appreciate the flexibility of their pricing plans, ranging from a free option to higher-tier programs that allow for custom configurations to meet specific needs and budgets. However, we do have some concerns to note.

For example, the cost per user can be pretty expensive for upper-tier plans. Additionally, it's worth remembering that premium support is only available with the top goal. Considering these factors, we recommend carefully considering the options available through JumpCloud to ensure you choose the plan that best aligns with your organization's needs.

Whether you're looking to secure your cloud directory or streamline your authentication processes, JumpCloud's platform offers a robust set of features that can help you achieve your goals.

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