Best Single Sign-On (SSO) Platforms

A token is a collection of identity information that goes from one system to another. A token may consist of a user’s email and password, and data about the system that is sending the information.

An example of a token is the way Google manages access to the products in G-Suite. Once you sign in to your Gmail, you get access to other applications, like YouTube, Google Drive, and Google Photos, without having to log in again for each app.

The token ensures you will gain access to multiple systems without needing to remember different credentials for each one.

SSO provides benefits in terms of security, customer experience, and reduced costs. The average organization uses an array of applications and services, both cloud-based and on-premises. A single sign-on helps to solve the tech sprawl by giving a single point of access.

In terms of security, SSO reduces the number of attack possibilities. User credentials are usually key targets for cybercriminals. The more credentials, the more opportunities for attackers to gain access. Single sign-on minimizes risk by requiring a single set of credentials.

SSO also helps with compliance, since many regulations require that organizations implement methods that protect data. SSO offers a way to effectively authenticate users who access electronic records as well as allowing for the automatic log-off of users.

Single sign-on also improves the employee’s experience. It saves time and improves productivity. Since most employees switch between an average of ten different apps for work, eliminating the need for signing in for each one saves considerable time and money.

SSO eliminates password fatigue and vulnerabilities. It also reduces the costs necessary to set up different help desks for resetting and management of passwords.

To implement an SSO in a central dashboard, you need two endpoints. One of the endpoints initiates an authentication request and redirects the user to a login form. The other endpoint accepts and receives the response, after a successful login process.

The data can be transferred from one entity to another by one of three methods:

• HTTP redirect binding encloses the data by receiving a parameter.
• HTTP post binding sends the data in the HTTP post request.
• HTTP artifact creates a direct connection to each endpoint.

Cross-domain single sign-on is a method for transferring user credentials across multiple secure domains. CDSSO allows the integration of multiple secure domains by enabling users to move between different domains with a single set of credentials.

A user can make a request to a resource located in another domain. The CDSSO transfers an identity token from the first domain to the second domain. Thus, the second domain can authenticate the user without the need for the user to provide new credentials.

The authentication flow for multiple domains is as follows:

1. A user requests access to a resource in the second domain using a link in the first domain.
2. The server processes the request in domain A, then sends an authentication token that states that the information comes from the first domain.
3. The domain B server decrypts and validates the token, calling out a CDSSO authentication mechanism. The domain B authorization service allows or denies access to protected objects.

Single Sign-On enhances security by reducing the number of passwords users need to remember and manage, which decreases the potential risk of password fatigue and weak or reused passwords. It centralizes authentication, allowing IT departments to enforce stronger password policies and monitor authentication attempts more effectively. With SSO, suspicious login patterns can be detected more easily, and unauthorized access attempts can be thwarted quickly.

Implementing SSO can present challenges such as compatibility with existing systems, data privacy concerns, and compliance with various industry regulations. You might also face difficulties in user adoption, as users may need training to adapt to the new system. Integrating SSO into legacy systems can be complex and may require additional middleware or software updates. Ensure your infrastructure is prepared for a seamless integration by conducting a thorough assessment and plan accordingly.

Yes, SSO can be effectively paired with multi-factor authentication (MFA) to enhance security. By using MFA, you add an extra layer of protection beyond just passwords, ensuring that even if a user's password is compromised, unauthorized access is still prevented. This combination provides a more robust security protocol, requiring users to verify their identity through multiple proof points such as a text message code, fingerprint, or authentication app.

Industries that deal with sensitive data or require frequent login access benefit significantly from SSO. These include the healthcare, finance, and education sectors, where users need quick, secure access to multiple systems and applications. Companies in these industries often manage vast amounts of personal and financial data, so SSO helps streamline access while maintaining high security standards. SSO simplifies employees' workflows, enhancing productivity and user satisfaction.

Choosing the right SSO provider involves evaluating your organization's specific needs, such as compatibility with existing applications, user base size, and security requirements. Consider a provider that offers robust integration capabilities, excellent customer support, and a strong track record of security. It is essential to assess their compliance with industry standards and their ability to scale as your organization grows. Test potential providers with a pilot program to ensure they meet your expectations before full deployment.