Single sign-on (SSO)

Definition

Single sign-on (SSO) is an authentication process that allows a user to access multiple applications or services with one set of login credentials. This simplifies the user experience by reducing the need to remember multiple passwords and enhances security by minimizing potential entry points for cyberattacks. SSO plays a crucial role in identity and access management by streamlining user verification across various platforms.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. SSO reduces password fatigue by allowing users to log in once and access multiple applications without needing to re-enter credentials.
2. Implementing SSO can improve organizational security by centralizing authentication processes, making it easier to manage user accounts and track access.
3. With SSO, if a user's credentials are compromised, it is critical to immediately revoke access to all linked applications to protect sensitive data.
4. SSO often uses protocols like SAML (Security Assertion Markup Language) or OpenID Connect to facilitate secure communication between the identity provider and service providers.
5. While SSO enhances convenience, it can also create a single point of failure; if an attacker gains access to the SSO system, they can potentially access all linked services.

Review Questions

• How does single sign-on (SSO) enhance the user experience in identity and access management?
  • Single sign-on (SSO) enhances user experience by allowing individuals to log in once and gain access to multiple applications without needing to remember different usernames and passwords for each service. This streamlining of access not only makes it easier for users but also reduces the frustration often associated with managing multiple credentials. By simplifying login processes, organizations can improve productivity and reduce the time spent on password recovery and resets.
• Discuss the potential security risks associated with implementing single sign-on (SSO) within an organization.
  • Implementing single sign-on (SSO) presents several security risks, primarily because it centralizes user authentication. If an attacker compromises the SSO credentials, they could gain unauthorized access to all linked applications, creating a significant vulnerability. Additionally, if there are weaknesses in the SSO implementation itself, such as outdated protocols or inadequate encryption measures, these could be exploited by cybercriminals. Organizations must carefully consider their security policies and employ measures like multi-factor authentication (MFA) to mitigate these risks.
• Evaluate how single sign-on (SSO) interacts with multi-factor authentication (MFA) to create a robust security framework.
  • Single sign-on (SSO) and multi-factor authentication (MFA) work together to create a robust security framework that balances convenience with strong protection. While SSO simplifies the login process by allowing users to authenticate once for multiple services, integrating MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring additional verification methods beyond just a password. This means that even if a user's SSO credentials are compromised, an attacker would still need the second factor of authentication to gain access. The combination of SSO's ease of use with MFA's heightened security significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access while improving overall user satisfaction.

Related terms

Identity Provider (IdP): A service that creates, maintains, and manages identity information for users while providing authentication services to applications.

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): A security measure that requires two or more verification methods to gain access to a resource, enhancing the protection beyond just passwords.

OAuth: An open standard for access delegation, commonly used for token-based authorization on the internet, allowing third-party services to exchange information without sharing credentials.