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The advantages of Single Sign-On (SSO): Security, efficiency and user-friendliness combined

In today’s digital business world, companies are faced with the challenge of managing numerous applications and platforms that are required for smooth operations. In this context, the concept of Single Sign-On (SSO) is becoming increasingly important. In this article, we explain how SSO works, the benefits for companies and an overview of the leading SSO platforms.

What is single sign-on?

Single sign-on (SSO) is an authentication method that allows users to log in once and then access multiple applications and services without having to log in again. This not only improves user-friendliness, but also increases security.

How do SSOs work?

SSO works by centrally managing user credentials. The process can be summarized as follows:

  • Login
    The user logs in to the SSO platform once. The login information (e.g. user name and password) is validated in the process.
  • Token generation
    After successful login, the SSO service creates an authentication token that confirms the user’s identity.
  • Access to applications
    When the user accesses an application, the application sends the token to the SSO service for verification. If the token is valid, the user is granted access to the application.
  • Centralized management
    The SSO service manages all authentication requests and stores credentials securely, increasing security.

Advantages of Single Sign-On

Improving security

The protection of sensitive data is a key concern for every company. Single sign-on significantly improves security:

  • Centralized authentication: User access is managed at a central point. Access can be deactivated quickly in the event of security incidents.
  • Stronger password policies: Since users only need one password, they are less likely to use weak passwords. Companies can enforce more comprehensive security policies.
  • Reduced number of login attempts: Since users only have to log in once, the risk of brute force attacks on multiple accounts is reduced.

Increased efficiency

In a busy business environment, time is money. SSO improves efficiency:

  • Faster access to applications: Employees spend less time logging into different applications and can concentrate on their tasks.
  • Fewer IT support requests: The number of requests to reset passwords is significantly reduced as users only have to remember one password.
  • Increased productivity: The time gained through faster access enables employees to work more productively.

User friendliness

The user experience is crucial for the acceptance of new technologies. SSO offers a user-friendly solution:

  • Simple logins: Users don’t have to remember numerous passwords, which reduces frustration.
  • Standardized interface: SSO provides a consistent login method for all applications, making navigation easier.
  • Mobile access: Many SSO solutions offer mobile support so that users can access their applications from anywhere.

What major SSO platforms are there?

There are several leading SSO platforms that companies can support. These can be divided into commercial solutions and open source alternatives. Here are some of the best known:

Commercial SSO platforms:

  • Okta: A comprehensive identity and access management solution that is easy to integrate and offers a wide range of features. Okta enables rapid implementation and offers robust security features.
  • Microsoft Azure Active Directory: Ideal for companies that already use Microsoft services. Azure AD offers comprehensive SSO capabilities and integration with Office 365, making it a popular choice for many organizations.
  • OneLogin: A user-friendly SSO solution that offers numerous integrations and is characterized by its security. OneLogin also offers comprehensive functions for identity management and access control.
  • Auth0: A flexible platform that supports both SSO and Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). Auth0 can be easily integrated into existing applications and offers a wide range of customization options.

Open source SSO solutions:

  • Keycloak: An open source identity and access management solution that enables SSO for web and mobile applications. Keycloak offers many features, including user registration, social login and multi-factor authentication. Its customizability and flexibility make it an attractive option for companies that need a tailored solution.
  • Gluu Server: An open source platform that provides SSO, identity management and access control. Gluu Server supports various protocols such as SAML and OAuth2 and is suitable for companies looking for a powerful and customizable solution.
  • WSO2 Identity Server: An open source identity management solution that provides SSO capabilities, user management and application integration. The WSO2 Identity Server supports a variety of standards, including SAML, OAuth and OpenID Connect, and allows flexible customization to meet specific business needs.
  • Shibboleth: An open source solution that is often used in educational institutions and research organizations. Shibboleth offers SSO and identity management via SAML and is particularly known for its high level of security and interoperability.

Implementation of Single Sign-On

The introduction of SSO in your company requires a few important steps:

  • Needs analysis: Determine which applications and services should be integrated into the SSO solution.
  • Platform selection: Choose the SSO platform that best suits your requirements.
  • Integration: Implement SSO in the selected applications and test the solution thoroughly.
  • Employee training: Make sure that all employees are informed about the new solution and know how to use it.
  • Monitoring and customization: Monitor the use of SSO and customize the solution to continuously improve usability and security.

Case study 1: Large industrial group with over 30 different applications and more than 4,000 users

Background:
A leading industrial group with over 30 different applications was struggling to create a unified login solution for its more than 4,000 users. The multitude of users and applications led to a confusing authentication landscape that not only burdened the IT department, but also compromised usability and security.

Solution:
We implemented a comprehensive SSO solution that integrates all of the company’s existing applications. First, we conducted an analysis of the existing systems to determine the specific requirements. We then selected a suitable SSO platform that would ensure seamless integration with the existing applications. Our team assisted the client with migration, employee training and setting up centralized authentication protocols.

Result:
The implementation of SSO led to a significant improvement in user-friendliness. Users now only have to log in once to access all applications. This reduced the number of IT support requests for password resets by 60%. The company was also able to improve the security of its systems, as centralized authentication enabled better control over access rights.

Case study 2: Solar-Tech company with 12 applications and different user groups

Background:
An innovative solar tech company had 12 different applications that needed to be accessible to its employees, suppliers, B2B customers and resellers. The challenge was to develop a flexible and secure SSO system that could accommodate the different user groups while providing a consistent user experience.

Solution:
We conducted a detailed requirements analysis to understand the specific needs of each user group. Based on these findings, we implemented an SSO solution that enabled granular access control. Each user type was given specific access rights to the applications that were relevant to them. We also assisted with user training and the integration of the SSO solution into the existing systems.

Result:
The implementation of the SSO system led to a significant increase in efficiency and user satisfaction. Employees and partners could now quickly and securely access the applications relevant to them without having to log in multiple times. The need for support was reduced by 40% as the system provided a clear and user-friendly authentication method. The company was also able to increase its security standards and significantly simplify the management of user access.

Implementing single sign-on solutions is a crucial step for companies that want to maximize security and user-friendliness. By centrally managing credentials, we can help our customers not only optimize their processes, but also increase the satisfaction of their employees and partners. Our goal is to support companies in their digital transformation by providing customized SSO solutions that meet their specific requirements.

Till Neitzke

Conclusion: The influence of artificial intelligence on digital product development

Single Sign-On (SSO) is an essential tool for modern businesses that not only increases security, but also improves efficiency and usability. By implementing an SSO solution, you can ensure that your company remains competitive in the digital world.

As a service provider specializing in the implementation of SSO solutions, we help companies take advantage of single sign-on. Let’s work together on the future of corporate security!

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