3 Open Source Alternatives to AWS Cognito

A list of 3 carefully selected open-source alternatives to AWS Cognito.

Adrian
Created by
Adrian
Mar 9, 20253 min read

The open-source alternatives are ranked based on our custom ranking system and score. This system takes into account various factors to determine the best alternatives.

If you’re looking for alternative features or workflows, here is a prepared detailed list of AWS Cognito open-source alternatives — each with its own distinctive strengths and key features.

#1
Authentik logo

Authentik

15,196
1,028

Authentik is a self-hosted, open source identity provider that empowers organizations to take control of their authentication processes. It offers flexible, scalable, and secure solutions for both internal and customer-facing applications.

Authentik screenshot

Key Features

  • Self-hosted and open source with complete control over identity data
  • Supports modern protocols: OAuth2, SAML2, LDAP, SCIM, RADIUS, and Kerberos
  • Customizable workflows and pre-built authentication templates
  • Robust APIs for automation and seamless integration
  • Facilitates secure SSO, MFA, and Zero Trust security implementations
  • Easily deployable on Docker, Kubernetes, and via Terraform

Authentik delivers a comprehensive identity solution by supporting a wide range of protocols including OAuth2, SAML2, LDAP, SCIM, RADIUS, and Kerberos. It simplifies implementation with pre-built workflows, customizable authentication templates, and robust APIs for seamless integration with modern infrastructures like Docker, Kubernetes, and Terraform. The tool enables secure Single Sign-On, Multi-factor Authentication, Conditional Access, and Zero Trust security, all managed through transparent, community-reviewed open source code.

#2
Cerbos logo

Cerbos

3,660
151

Cerbos is an open core, language-agnostic, and scalable authorization solution that simplifies the implementation and management of fine-grained access control in modern applications. It enables developers to externalize authorization logic through context-aware policies, reducing complexity and accelerating development cycles.

Cerbos screenshot

Key Features

  • Externalized, policy-based runtime authorization
  • Supports both RBAC and ABAC with context-aware controls
  • Plug-and-play SDKs for multiple programming languages
  • Centralized policy management with distributed decision points
  • Built-in audit logs and compliance support
  • Flexible deployment models including on-premise and cloud

Cerbos offers a plug-and-play, API-based approach to defining and enforcing access policies without cluttering your code. It supports both RBAC and ABAC models, integrates seamlessly with multiple languages and frameworks, and provides low-latency, distributed decision points for fast, secure runtime authorization. The solution not only simplifies policy management with a centralized administration hub but also adapts effortlessly to evolving business and regulatory needs.

#3
Hanko logo

Hanko

7,711
948

Hanko is an advanced open source authentication and user management solution built for the passkey era. It offers a robust, secure, and flexible framework that seamlessly integrates modern passkey technology along with traditional methods such as passwords and 2FA.

Hanko screenshot

Key Features

  • Open source with no vendor lock-in
  • Supports modern passkeys, 2FA, and SSO
  • Embeddable, framework-agnostic web components
  • Customizable styling and integration options
  • Scalable solution with cost-effective plans for startups

Hanko provides embeddable components and APIs that enable developers to integrate secure user authentication quickly. Supporting a range of login methods—from passwordless with passkeys to optional passwords and social-only logins—Hanko adapts to your needs, delivering modern security with minimal integration effort. Its open source nature ensures you retain full control and flexibility, whether using the cloud or self-hosting.

Price comparison of AWS Cognito open-source alternatives

ToolTier 1Tier 2Tier 3Details
Authentik logo
Authentik
$0
Open Source
$5
Professional
$20000
Enterprise
Learn more
Cerbos logo
Cerbos
$0
Start
$25
Growth
-Learn more
Hanko logo
Hanko
$29
Startup Plan
--Learn more

* Pricing shown is based on publicly available information and may not reflect current rates. Visit each tool's website for detailed pricing information and additional tiers.

This comparison data was compiled with AI assistance.
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