As companies are moving toward routinely using the cloud and third-party resources, having single sign-on capability is vital. SSO provides access to multiple sites from any device and any location allowing employers to offer a seamless experience for their employees and their customers.
There are many benefits of single sign-on, including significant cost savings, employee satisfaction, and a more productive workflow.
What is Single Sign-On?
It is second nature for any computer user to turn on their screen and log in until they arrive at their desired destination. We enter a username and password, and suddenly an entire universe is available to us; This is called single sign-on or SSO.
We type our identity information into one application and are automatically signed into multiple sites. SSO opens a world of opportunities without the repetition of providing a new login to each site or application we visit. Streamlining the user experience and providing numerous advantages while simplifying the authentication process.
How does Single Sign-On work?
There are two key players in the single sign-on space including the service provider (SP) and the identity provider (IdP). They establish a reliable partnership together with the service provider representing the application and offer the identity provider basic information about the user. The data undergoes SSO authentication and the agreement or certificate between the two providers ensures the IdP will only allow entrance to trusted sources.
We open an application or website and the SP automatically sends a request and redirects to the SSO system or IdP. Users, log in with the required credentials, such as a username and password or a one-time password (OTP).
Once validated the IdP breaks down the identity information into tokens.
These bits of information, which confirm authentication, are then used to open any other application associated with the SP simultaneously. When we enter each new application or site, there is no additional login required. The entire process can move forward trusting the SSO authentication and what follows is a ripple effect of open websites or applications which provide multiple advantages to the user.
Examples of Single Sign-On Solutions
- Forgerock
- Large companies with complex needs tend to gravitate to this SSO due to the multiple extra services it provides. If needing only SSO then looking elsewhere is advised.
- Oracle
- This SSO has only received fair reviews regarding issues such as poor service and pricing inflexibility. However, it works for the needs of popular brands in government, higher education, and financial services.
- IDaptive
- This SSO has an 85% approval rating and is best suited for small to midsize business models. Another great benefit is multi-factor authentication in case of a suspicious sign-in providing increased security measures to prevent compromised accounts.
- Microsoft Azure
- Microsoft Azure Active Directory offers reporting, security analytics, and a multi-factor authentication option. It is perfect for small or larger businesses using the Microsoft Azure Cloud platform.
- Okta
- On Gartner Peer Reviews, Okta received a 91% positive review. It can provide industry-specific content for places like government, higher education, non-profit, healthcare, and financial services.
- Ping Identity
- Another 91% positive review received by Gartner Peer Reviews and offering both on-site and cloud options, this company requires a closer look. Their resume and list of clients are staggering with a large percentage of the top pharmaceuticals, banks, hospitals, and healthcare plans.
- One Login
- This SSO supports multiple logins. For example, if using multiple WordPress website logins, it makes them available using one set of credentials for entry. Another great feature is shared logins which allows an entire team to access the same social media site making it convenient and more secure.
Benefits of Single Sign-On
Improved Security
A single sign-on provides reliable security, especially as SSO services are constantly improving. In addition, users only have to remember one identity information phrase for SSO authentication and are more likely to establish a solid username and password.
Reduces Password Fatigue
The single sign-on approach has provided a respite for users remembering or tracking a multitude of usernames and passwords. In addition, having a system that opens with a one-time password is simple and benefits all parties.
Increased Productivity
Simplifying username and password management provide more free time to research, explore, or enjoy the sites a user visits. Employees can manage their time and focus on the task at hand instead of stopping at each new site to enter identifying credentials. Additionally, as new applications and websites are created daily, single sign-on provides a way to access those with ease.
Decreases IT Costs
Several recent surveys from Gartner and Forrester show 50% of all help desk calls are related to password issues and the cost is around $70 per fix. Users with numerous passwords are more likely to forget them but SSO has reduced the need for IT assistance. Employees reaching out less and less for password assistance will drive down the number of IT calls and companies' cost.
Improved Employee Experience
The competitive world of websites and applications available to employees must be user-friendly. If a site is difficult to sign into and slows down a person’s progress, not only will they become frustrated but the time wasted becomes a factor.
Experience the Advantages of Using SSO for Your Business
The benefits of single sign-on are vital in keeping both employees and employers happy. These perks drive down the cost for the employee and provide an added measure of security for each business. In addition, employees can streamline their work, increase workplace productivity, and boost satisfaction.
Have more questions about single sign-on or need assistance with other IT services? Let the team at Makios Technology help you!
online or call us today at (915) 217-2500!
