Single Sign-On (SSO) is a fundamental component of Identity and Access Management (IAM) systems designed to simplify and enhance user authentication processes. The primary goal of SSO is to enable users to access multiple applications and systems with a single set of credentials, eliminating the need to remember and enter different usernames and passwords for each application
Single Sign-On (SSO)
USD 4.45M
The average cost of a data breach in 2023 $4.45M million. 2.3% increase from the 2022 ($4.35M)
Key Components and Mechanisms
Authentication Brokerage
Objective: SSO acts as an authentication broker, allowing users to authenticate once and gain access to various applications without the need to reauthenticate for each one.
Mechanism: Upon initial login, the user's identity is verified, and a secure token or session is established. This token is then used to authenticate the user across multiple applications.
Centralized Identity Provider (IdP)
Objective: SSO relies on a centralized Identity Provider, which is responsible for authenticating users and generating the necessary tokens.
Mechanism: Users log in through the IdP, which then issues a token. This token is presented to other applications to gain access without additional authentication.
Security Assertion Markup Language (SAML) and OAuth
Objective: SAML and OAuth are commonly used protocols to facilitate secure authentication and authorization between the Identity Provider and service providers.
Mechanism: SAML enables the exchange of authentication and authorization data between the IdP and service providers, while OAuth allows secure token-based authentication.
User Session Management
Objective: SSO manages user sessions, allowing users to navigate seamlessly between applications during a specified period without needing to re-enter credentials.
Mechanism: The session token, once established, is used to validate the user's identity across applications until the session expires or the user logs out.
Benefits of Single Sign On
Enhanced User Experience
Users benefit from a streamlined authentication process, accessing multiple applications with a single login, reducing frustration and login fatigue
Improved Security
SSO enhances security by reducing the likelihood of weak passwords or password reuse, as users only need to remember one set of credentials
Increased Productivity
With fewer login prompts, users save time, leading to increased productivity and efficiency in daily tasks
SSO can reduce the number of password-related support requests, lowering the overall cost of IT support
Reduced Support Costs
SSO allows for centralized control over user access, enabling administrators to manage permissions and roles more effectively
Centralized Access Control
By providing a seamless and efficient authentication experience, SSO contributes to a more productive and secure digital environment, aligning with the evolving needs of modern organizations and their users