LinOTP review
A flexible open-source MFA server for teams integrating varied OTP and authentication methods.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
LinOTP is an open-source multi-factor authentication server maintained by netgo software GmbH. It is designed for organizations that need to deploy authentication within existing infrastructure rather than adopt a narrowly focused token service. The platform supports web, Linux, Windows, iOS, Android, and API-based environments, with hybrid deployment options. Its scope covers token management, authentication policies, enrollment, administration, self-service, audit logging, and integration APIs.
Integration breadth is a central strength. LinOTP connects with LDAP and Active Directory, SQL, and other identity stores through user identity resolvers. Its HTTP/JSON APIs cover management, authentication, self-service, user resolvers, and audit functions. Application and access integrations include PAM, RADIUS, SAML, OpenVPN, SSH, Apache, and WordPress. High-availability and load-balancing support also suit deployments that need distributed service operation. Teams should expect to map these interfaces to their existing identity and access architecture rather than treat LinOTP as an isolated application.
The factor range is unusually broad within this product’s stated scope. LinOTP supports HOTP, TOTP, mOTP, OCRA, SMS, email, push, QR challenge-response, YubiKey, and FIDO U2F, alongside other token types. Its policy framework covers authentication, authorization, enrollment, and administration, while the self-service portal handles enrollment, disabling, deletion, PIN changes, and resynchronization. Signed audit logs record authentication and management actions. LinOTP is a strong fit for technical teams seeking open-source OTP infrastructure with detailed control. Organizations wanting a simpler, fully managed experience may prefer a product with less server and policy administration.
LinOTP pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Broad OTP, challenge-response, YubiKey, and FIDO U2F support
- Self-service token administration with signed audit logging
- APIs, identity resolvers, PAM, RADIUS, SAML, and other integrations
- Where it doesn't
- FIDO U2F support is provided through the web API
- Self-hosted deployment requires server and identity-integration management
- Broad token and policy coverage can increase administration complexity
LinOTP fact sheet, pricing and score →
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