Single Sign-On (SSO) works by allowing users to authenticate once and gain access to multiple applications or services without the need to re-enter credentials for each one. Here's a more detailed explanation of how SSO typically operates:
User Attempts to Access an Application: When a user tries to access an application or service that utilizes SSO, they are redirected to a centralized authentication system known as the Identity Provider.
Authentication Request: The application sends an authentication request to the Identity Provider, indicating that the user needs to be authenticated.
User Authentication: The Identity Provider prompts the user to log in by providing their credentials, such as a username and password. Depending on the security configuration, the Identity Provider may also support additional authentication methods like biometrics or multi-factor authentication (MFA).
Issuance of Authentication Token: After successful authentication, the Identity Provider generates an authentication token containing information about the user's identity and permissions.
Token Verification by Application: The Identity Provider sends this token back to the application that initially requested authentication.
Access Granted: The application verifies the authenticity and validity of the token. If the token is valid, the user is granted access to the application without needing to provide credentials again.
Access to Other Applications: If the user attempts to access another application that also supports SSO, the process is repeated. However, instead of prompting the user to log in again, the Identity Provider recognizes the user's existing authentication session and issues another token for seamless access.
Key Components of SSO:
Identity Provider Identity Provider: This is the centralized authentication system responsible for verifying user identities and generating authentication tokens. Examples of Identity Provider include Microsoft Azure Active Directory, Identity Provider, and Google Identity Platform.
Service Provider (SP): The application or service that users are trying to access. The SP relies on the Identity Provider for user authentication.
Authentication Token: A digitally signed token issued by the Identity Provider upon successful authentication. This token contains information about the user's identity and permissions and is used to grant access to SPs.
SSO offers several benefits, including improved user experience, enhanced security, and simplified IT management. However, it's crucial to implement SSO securely to mitigate potential risks such as unauthorized access and data breaches.
https://www.infisign.io/post/how-does-single-sign-on-sso-work
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