getapp-logo

App comparison

Add up to 4 apps below to see how they compare. You can also use the "Compare" buttons while browsing.

Software categoriesBlog & researchAbout us

GetApp offers objective, independent research and verified user reviews. We may earn a referral fee when you visit a vendor through our links. 

Table of Contents

Top Rated Instant Messaging & Chat Software with Access Controls/Permissions in 2026

Verified reviewer profile picture
Verified reviewer profile picture

All user reviews are verified by in-house moderators and provider data by our software research team.  Learn more

Last updated: April 2026

Access controls and permissions ensure data security by restricting access to sensitive information, allow users to manage file sharing, and facilitate collaboration by defining specific roles and access levels for team members. Our reviewers in instant messaging & chat software rated this feature as highly important.

10 Best Instant Messaging & Chat Software with Access Controls/Permissions

Product
User rating
Starting price
Basecamp logo
4.4
(14.4K)
15
per user/per month
learn more
Webex Suite logo
4.4
(7.3K)
25
per user/per month
learn more
GoTo Meeting logo
4.5
(11.5K)
14
per user/per month
learn more
Asana logo
4.5
(13.5K)
10.99
per user/per month
learn more
Trello logo
4.5
(23.4K)
5
per user/per month
learn more
Google Workspace logo
4.7
(17.4K)
7
per user/per month
learn more
Slack logo
4.7
(24K)
8.75
per user/per month
learn more
monday.com logo
4.6
(5.7K)
9
per user/per month
learn more
Workplace from Meta logo
4.4
(1.3K)
4
per user/per month
learn more
Microsoft Teams logo
4.5
(10.9K)
4
per user/per month
learn more

See other top Instant Messaging & Chat products with access controls/permissions

How we picked the 10 top rated products

We chose the high-performing solutions on this list based on verified user ratings on our site. Depending on available data, qualifying products either had to be among the most user-reviewed or the most searched-for products in the Instant Messaging & Chat software category. They also needed to have sufficient reviews about access controls/permissions, have a minimum user rating of 3 out of 5 for that feature, and show evidence of U.S. market presence. We then added a distinction for up to three products based on our proprietary ratings and reviews: Highest rated, Highly rated for access controls/permissions, and Highly rated for free version. Sponsorship or client status has no influence on the selection of these products, but it may impact the order in which products appear.

Details for the 10 best products

Basecamp logo
Reviews Sentiment
 
 
 
1-2(319)
3-4(6,845)
5(7,242)
Key Features
Real-Time Chat4.4
Real-Time Notifications4.6

User insights about the access controls/permissions feature

Reviewers indicate that Basecamp's access controls and permissions are highly effective for managing team access to sensitive information. They appreciate the ability to manually control permissions, ensuring only authorized members can view or edit files. Users find it straightforward to add and remove users, which enhances security and collaboration.

See related user reviews

“Basecamp's access controls and permissions features provide teams with the ability to control access to sensitive information and ensure that only authorized team members have access to it. This impacts the product positively as teams can maintain confidentiality, protect intellectual property and ensure that the project is completed without any security breaches.”
SR

Srinivasa R.

Manager

“The user have the access to control the permissions. We can manually choose which permission to allow and which one should not be. This feature is not available in other such apps.”
LB

Lakshay B.

Recruitment Professional

Starting price
15per user /
per month
learn more
Pros and Cons based on 14,406 verified reviews

Efficient file sharing

Enhanced team communication

Streamlined team collaboration

Effective project organization

Seamless client management

Frequent technical issues

Overwhelming notifications

Inefficient search functionality

Limited layout customization

Subpar user experience

See pros and cons details
Webex Suite logo
Reviews Sentiment
 
 
 
1-2(132)
3-4(3,248)
5(4,015)
Key Features
Real-Time Chat4.5
Real-Time Notifications4.6

User insights about the access controls/permissions feature

Reviewers highlight Webex Suite's access controls and permissions for their customization based on attendee roles. They appreciate the ability to manage who can access chat and mic, which helps maintain order during meetings. Users find it easy to lock down permissions and ensure secure communication.

See related user reviews

“WebEx allows you to easily make others cohosts and mute all. This is perfect for eliminating distractions and make sure your presentations work smoothly.”
JB

Jeremy B.

Sr. Analyst

“I like the ability to customize permissions for different parts of the program based on the attendee role”
RH

Rachel H.

Senior Specialist

Starting price
25per user /
per month
learn more
Pros and Cons based on 7,395 verified reviews

Efficient remote collaboration

Robust communication conferencing

Enhanced team collaboration

Interactive webinars

Effective online training

Connectivity issues

Browser compatibility problems

Complicated issue management

Navigation and screen issues

User experience challenges

See pros and cons details
GoTo Meeting logo
Reviews Sentiment
 
 
 
1-2(166)
3-4(4,838)
5(6,521)
Key Features
Real-Time Chat4.5
Real-Time Notifications

User insights about the access controls/permissions feature

Reviewers appreciate GoTo Meeting's access controls and permissions for their simplicity and efficiency. They find it easy to manage user configurations and control meeting access, ensuring security. Users highlight the ability to limit permissions and control access, which helps in maintaining data security and smooth operation during remote sessions.

See related user reviews

“It has a protection feature so that it is not possible to enter the meeting until after the approval of the admin”
AB

Ali B.

HR officer

“Limiting access and permissions is a paramount feature. ”
BD

Blair D.

Manager

Starting price
14per user /
per month
learn more
Pros and Cons based on 11,525 verified reviews

Seamless remote connectivity

Enhanced team collaboration

Effective webinar hosting

Efficient collaborative sharing

Positive GoToMeeting experience

Frequent connection lag

Persistent audio issues

Cumbersome download process

Inferior to competitors

Unstable connection

See pros and cons details
Asana logo
Reviews Sentiment
 
 
 
1-2(230)
3-4(5,264)
5(8,050)
Key Features
Real-Time Chat4.3
Real-Time Notifications4.5

User insights about the access controls/permissions feature

Reviewers appreciate Asana's access controls and permissions for their role-based flexibility. They find it easy to assign different access levels to team members, ensuring data security and effective collaboration. Users value the ability to add external guests and manage permissions to keep project information confidential.
Verified reviewer profile picture
Verified reviewer profile picture

See related user reviews

“What i like is the flexibility to tailor access levels at multiple levels (role, project, task) ensures that organizational data remains secure while facilitating effective teamwork and project management.”
Verified reviewer profile picture

NENA C.

Teacher

“Data security is paramount for data analysts. Asana offers robust access controls and permissions, ensuring that sensitive data and projects are accessible only to authorized team members.”
Verified reviewer profile picture

Eric R.

Data Analyst

Starting price
10.99per user /
per month
learn more
Pros and Cons based on 13,544 verified reviews
Verified reviewer profile picture
Verified reviewer profile picture

Comprehensive project tracking

Enhanced team collaboration

Efficient task organization

Effective employee management

Overwhelming email notifications

High premium costs

Complex user experience

See pros and cons details
Trello logo
Reviews Sentiment
 
 
 
1-2(237)
3-4(8,675)
5(14,571)
Key Features
Real-Time Chat
Real-Time Notifications4.5

User insights about the access controls/permissions feature

Reviewers find Trello's access controls and permissions easy to set up and manage. They appreciate the ability to restrict access to specific boards and cards, ensuring data security. Users highlight the importance of these controls for maintaining project integrity and protecting sensitive information.

See related user reviews

“The Access Controls/Permissions feature in Trello is fantastic for team collaboration. Setting permissions is a breeze, allowing me to easily manage who has access to what. The simplicity of inviting team members and controlling their access levels.”
SN

Serge N.

Designer

“Access controls in Trello are crucial for maintaining data security and privacy. They enable you to restrict access to sensitive information, ensuring that only authorized users can view or modify specific boards, cards, or tasks, thereby safeguarding confidential data and maintaining the integrity of your projects.”
SP

Sumit P.

owner

Starting price
5per user /
per month
learn more
Pros and Cons based on 23,483 verified reviews

Flexible task organization

Effective team collaboration

Intuitive drag-and-drop interface

Comprehensive track management

Inadequate notification system

Pricing concerns and limitations

Limited file management

See pros and cons details
Google Workspace logo
Reviews Sentiment
 
 
 
1-2(165)
3-4(4,154)
5(13,151)
Key Features
Real-Time Chat4.6
Real-Time Notifications4.5

User insights about the access controls/permissions feature

Reviewers highlight Google Workspace's access controls and permissions for their flexibility and security. They appreciate the granular control over who can view, edit, or share files, which helps protect sensitive information. Users find the G-Suite Admin dashboard user-friendly, making it easy to manage permissions and ensure data privacy.

See related user reviews

“"Access Controls/Permissions are extremely useful in Google Workspace as they allow me to manage who can view, edit, or share files. This feature helps maintain data privacy and control, especially when collaborating with different teams, ensuring th”
Gf

Girgis f.

jofared

“Access controls/permissions in Google Workspace are crucial for managing data security and collaboration. They allow users to define who can view, edit, or share files, ensuring sensitive information is protected while enabling efficient teamwork. Th”
AP

Anket P.

Cosmetic

Starting price
7per user /
per month
learn more
Pros and Cons based on 17,470 verified reviews

Effective remote teamwork

Enhanced workflow efficiency

Accessible cloud storage

Seamless document sharing

Seamless app integration

Dependence on internet

Inconsistent customer support

High costs and limitations

Complex account management

Challenging file management

See pros and cons details
Slack logo
Reviews Sentiment
 
 
 
1-2(175)
3-4(6,598)
5(17,262)
Key Features
Real-Time Chat4.8
Real-Time Notifications4.7

User insights about the access controls/permissions feature

Reviewers appreciate Slack's access controls and permissions for their ease of use and security. They find it simple to set permissions for channels and groups, ensuring only authorized users can access sensitive information. Users value the ability to add guests and manage roles, which enhances collaboration and data protection.
Verified reviewer profile picture

See related user reviews

“This feature helps to feel secure about their data. The workspace or channel feature is an important and secure feature in slack because each channel has its link. Due to this only authorized users can only authenticate that specific channel or workspaces.”
SM

Satish M.

Developer

“Project team members will play various roles during the execution of a project, so Slack will work with them based on assigning required access levels.”
Verified reviewer profile picture

Jose P.

Business Change Manager, IPMA, PMP.

Starting price
8.75per user /
per month
learn more
Pros and Cons based on 24,035 verified reviews
Verified reviewer profile picture

Effective remote communication

Efficient colleague communication

Enhanced team collaboration

Streamlined project management

Extensive integration options

High resource consumption

Inconsistent notifications

Confusing thread management

Slack's pricing drawbacks

Messaging limitations

See pros and cons details
monday.com logo
Reviews Sentiment
 
 
 
1-2(71)
3-4(1,936)
5(3,713)
Key Features
Real-Time Chat
Real-Time Notifications4.5

User insights about the access controls/permissions feature

Reviewers appreciate monday.com's access controls and permissions for their ease of use and customization. They find it simple to set up user roles and manage access to boards, ensuring data security. Users highlight the importance of these controls for maintaining confidentiality and optimizing workflow efficiency.

See related user reviews

“ Access controls and permissions within monday.com are fundamental to maintaining data security, promoting collaboration, ensuring compliance, and optimizing workflow efficiency. ”
sc

shonika c.

Associate Supply chain

“I love that the permissions and access controls are monitored on your own accord. You can customize your settings and use Monday.com as a trusted source. ”
JF

Justine F.

Teacher

Starting price
9per user /
per month
learn more
Pros and Cons based on 5,720 verified reviews

Boosts team productivity

Effective progress tracking

Enhanced organization capabilities

Visual task management

Highly customizable platform

High costs for small teams

Overwhelming email notifications

Occasional performance issues

Limited mobile functionality

See pros and cons details
Workplace from Meta logo
Reviews Sentiment
 
 
 
1-2(39)
3-4(562)
5(750)
Key Features
Real-Time Chat4.6
Real-Time Notifications4.6

User insights about the access controls/permissions feature

Reviewers appreciate Workplace from Meta's access controls and permissions for their comprehensive security features. They find it important for restricting access to sensitive information and ensuring only authorized users can view or edit data. Users value the ability to assign specific permissions to enhance data protection.
Verified reviewer profile picture

See related user reviews

“Enhances security: Access controls and permissions allow administrators to restrict access to sensitive information and resources, improving the security of the platform.”
yb

yassine b.

drob

“Access controls or permissions in Workplace has a large range of parameters that can be turned off or on”
Verified reviewer profile picture

Ilich R.

Visting Lecturer

Starting price
4per user /
per month
learn more
Pros and Cons based on 1,351 verified reviews
Verified reviewer profile picture

Effective team collaboration

Versatile video communication

Efficient information sharing

Streamlined colleague communication

Comprehensive event management

Overwhelming notifications

Privacy and security issues

Complicated account management

Inefficient email communication

Limited mobile access

See pros and cons details
Microsoft Teams logo
Reviews Sentiment
 
 
 
1-2(199)
3-4(4,372)
5(6,360)
Key Features
Real-Time Chat4.7
Real-Time Notifications4.6

User insights about the access controls/permissions feature

Reviewers find Microsoft Teams' access controls and permissions easy to manage and highly customizable. They appreciate the ability to grant and restrict permissions, ensuring only authorized users can access specific information. Users value the role-based controls for maintaining security and facilitating effective collaboration.
Verified reviewer profile picture

See related user reviews

“this ensures right people have the appropriate levels of access which helps maintain security and confidentiality while allowing team members to collaborate effectively by controlling who can view or edit.”
Verified reviewer profile picture

Hind A.

Phd Researcher

“I can grant permissions to certain members of staff in my clients business and also restrict those that are not allowed these permissions. It also keeps it safe.”
KH

Kim H.

Freelancer

Starting price
4per user /
per month
learn more
Pros and Cons based on 10,931 verified reviews
Verified reviewer profile picture

Remote work facilitation

Effective colleague communication

Enhanced team collaboration

Unified communication platform

Seamless office integration

Resource-intensive performance

Inconsistent notifications

Inefficient search functionality

Complex file management

Call management limitations

See pros and cons details

Other Top Rated Instant Messaging & Chat Software with Access Controls/Permissions in 2026

Slack logo
Category Leaders

A single place for team communication and workflows

learn more
Slack is a single workspace that connects users with the people and tools they work with everyday, no matter where they are or what they do

Read more about Slack

Users also considered
Google Workspace logo
Category Leaders

Collaboration application suite for teams

learn more
Google Workspace is a suite of applications from Google which offers a number of tools to communicate and collaborate with colleagues, store files, and manage data from all devices.

Read more about Google Workspace

Users also considered
Trello logo

Visual collaboration tool for shared project perspectives

learn more
Trello is a project management tool that helps teams organize and manage their tasks. It caters to a range of industries and teams, from marketing to engineering. Trello's simple and intuitive interface makes it easy for any team to get started and stay on top of their work.

Read more about Trello

Users also considered
Asana logo

Project tracking and workflow management platform

learn more
Asana is a chat and collaboration tool where you can connect all your work in one place and bring teams together, anywhere. From lists to boards, to calendars and gantt charts, organize work your way. Join millions of teams across 190 countries who use Asana to get more done.

Read more about Asana

Users also considered
GoTo Meeting logo

Online meeting software with HD video conferencing

learn more
GoToMeeting is an IM & chat tool that allows users to host an online meeting with high-definition video conferencing from their Mac, PC, iPad, iPhone or Android device, with up to 250 participants. Users can meet, screen share and chat via internet browser, mobile or desktop application.

Read more about GoTo Meeting

Users also considered
Microsoft Teams logo

Chat-based workspace in Office 365

learn more
Microsoft Teams is a chat-based workspace in Microsoft 365 which lets users collaborate on documents, make voice & video conference calls, view chat logs, and more. Teams has replaced Skype for Business as Microsoft's online meeting solution.

Read more about Microsoft Teams

Users also considered
Basecamp logo

Flexible project management and team communication tool

learn more
Basecamp is a comprehensive project management software that helps teams stay organized and on track. Trusted by millions, Basecamp puts everything needed to get work done in one place, providing a structured way to manage projects, collaborate with clients, and communicate company-wide

Read more about Basecamp

Users also considered
Connecteam logo
Category Leaders

Enhance employee management with the only all-in-one app

learn more
Connecteam is the collaboration, engagement and communication app that moves work forward and keeps your team connected in the tap of a button.

Read more about Connecteam

Users also considered
monday.com logo

Project management software

learn more
monday.com is a cloud-based Work OS, where teams create workflow apps in minutes to run their processes, projects, and everyday work. Teams shape workflows and projects, code-free, with a platform that adapts to shifting needs, liberates teams from manual grunt work, and connects teams in a collaborative work space.

Read more about monday.com

Users also considered
ClickUp logo

Productivity platform for marketing agencies

learn more
ClickUp is a productivity platform that helps businesses combine project management tools, AI capabilities, and collaboration features in a unified workspace. The system can integrate tasks, documents, goals, and chat functionality while offering AI-based agents that automate workflows and answer questions. ClickUp serves teams across various departments with enterprise-grade security certifications including SOC 2 Type II, ISO 27001, GDPR, and HIPAA compliance.

Read more about ClickUp

Users also considered
Webex Suite logo

One app for everything. And everyone.

learn more
Webex brings together Calling, Meeting and Messaging modes of collaboration into a seamless, engaging, inclusive and intelligent experience.

Read more about Webex Suite

Users also considered
ScreenConnect logo
Category Leaders

Remote meeting platform for resolving customers' queries

learn more
ScreenConnect is a help desk solution that allows businesses to detect and resolve customer queries through remote monitoring capabilities. Agents can prevent potential cyberthreats & protect data via features such as AES-256 encryption and two-factor authentication.

Read more about ScreenConnect

Users also considered
Miro logo

Miro is a visual workspace for innovation

learn more
Miro is #1 collaborative whiteboard platform, trusted by over 13M users worldwide. Easily collaborate, ideate and centralize communication. Get feedback, reviews, and approvals with multiple communication options using video, chat, commenting and many other collaborative features and integrations!

Read more about Miro

Users also considered
Zoho Desk logo

Customer service software for businesses of all sizes

learn more
Zoho Desk is a web and mobile-based customer service software that enables businesses of all sizes and types to deliver customer support, empower agents, and maintain operations.

Read more about Zoho Desk

Users also considered
Homebase logo

All-in-one platform to manage hourly team

learn more
All-in-one team management with scheduling, time tracking, time clock, payroll, onboarding, HR, and communication tools for small businesses.

Read more about Homebase

Users also considered
When I Work logo

Staff scheduling, time tracking, and communication tool

learn more
Use When I Work to schedule, track time and attendance, and communicate with employees, all in one place. Create schedules quickly and easily, and send the schedule to staff with just a click. Save time. Improve accountability. 14-day free trial.

Read more about When I Work

Users also considered
Zoho Meeting logo
Category Leaders

Web conferencing tool to host online meetings and webinars.

learn more
Use Zoho Meeting's built-in instant messenger tool to send instant chat messages to meeting participants during web conferences

Read more about Zoho Meeting

Users also considered
Workplace from Meta logo

A simple and secure way to connect your organization.

learn more
Workplace from Facebook is a secure enterprise social networking platform that allows co-workers to connect immediately via Work Chat instant messaging

Read more about Workplace from Meta

Users also considered
Trainual logo

Onboarding and training software

learn more
Trainual is an all-in-one employee training platform that centralizes documentation, onboarding, and knowledge management for businesses. The system enables organizations to capture processes, create SOPs, and build comprehensive training programs while tracking completion and ensuring compliance through e-signatures. Trainual integrates with various work applications and serves companies across multiple industries including healthcare, real estate, and business services.

Read more about Trainual

Users also considered
Avaza logo
Category Leaders

All-in-one, client-focused project management for teams.

learn more
Avaza is a business management solution which includes features for project management, resource scheduling, online timesheets, expense management, online invoicing, recurring invoicing, quotes and invoices, and more. Avaza also integrates with third party platforms to streamline workflows.

Read more about Avaza

Users also considered
Nifty logo

Project management, task tracking, & team collaboration hub.

learn more
Nifty is a remote collaboration hub designed to manage projects, goals, communications, and teams all in one place. With Nifty, all over the place becomes all-in-one place. Every part of managing a project's lifecycle is here.

Read more about Nifty

Users also considered
Bitrix24 logo

All in one business management workspace

learn more
Find your colleagues quickly in address book. See if they are available, busy or absent with the help of online indicator. Use group chat. View chat history.

Read more about Bitrix24

Users also considered
3CX logo

Web & mobile-based (Android, iOS) communications system.

learn more
With 3CX’s integrated live chat feature your website and Facebook page visitors are able to start a chat or call in real-time. Your agents can answer them immediately from their 3CX web client or app. If chat is not enough, they can switch to a call or video in a single click.

Read more about 3CX

Users also considered
Flock logo

Communication and collaboration platform for teams

learn more
Flock is a collaborative messaging app for teams which enables users to discuss projects and find and share information and ideas effectively and efficiently

Read more about Flock

Users also considered
Front logo

AI-enabled customer service platform for collaboration

learn more
Front is a customer operations platform that enables support, sales, and account management teams to deliver exceptional service at scale. Front streamlines customer comms by combining the efficiency of a help desk and the familiarity of email, with automated workflows and real-time collaboration.

Read more about Front

Users also considered

Key features for Instant Messaging & Chat software

Based on GetApp's analysis of verified user reviews collected between July 2021 and August 2024.

  • Real-Time Chat: Reviewers appreciate the instant communication, ability to create group chats, and share various media while maintaining privacy and security. 93% of reviewers rated this feature as important or highly important.
  • Real-Time Notifications: Users value customizable notifications that keep them updated on important messages and activities, enhancing responsiveness and productivity. 91% of reviewers rated this feature as important or highly important.
  • Mobile Access: Reviewers highlight the convenience of staying connected and productive on the go, with full functionality and reliable performance on mobile devices. 91% of reviewers rated this feature as important or highly important.
  • Document Storage: Users find the secure cloud storage essential for easy access, organization, and sharing of files, enhancing collaboration and data protection. 90% of reviewers rated this feature as important or highly important.
  • Two-Way Audio & Video: Reviewers appreciate clear audio and video quality for effective communication, making meetings and collaborations more interactive and personal. 88% of reviewers rated this feature as important or highly important.
  • Screen Sharing: Users value the ability to share screens for real-time collaboration, presentations, and troubleshooting, which enhances understanding and productivity. 86% of reviewers rated this feature as important or highly important.