definition of terms

Single sign-on (SSO) refers to an authentication procedure in which users only have to log in once to access multiple services or applications. A central provider verifies the identity and passes this confirmation on to other services.

Functionality

With SSO, the user authenticates themselves with a central identity provider (e.g., a social network). This provider confirms to the target application that the person is genuine—usually with the help of an electronic signature based on cryptographic methods. The application accepts this confirmation and grants access without requiring a separate password.

benefits
  • Convenience: Only one registration required for many applications
  • Less password stress: No need to remember lots of login details
  • Centralized management: Identity verification by a single provider
risks
  • Single point of failure: If the central account is compromised, all linked accounts are at risk.
  • Data protection: Central providers often collect and share extensive user data.
  • Risk of abuse: Access to sensitive accounts when security measures are lacking

When is SSO useful?

Single sign-on (SSO) is particularly beneficial in organizations with many applications, cloud services, or user groups that regularly switch between systems.

Typical application scenarios are:

  • Hybrid work environments where employees can access company resources regardless of their location
  • Companies with high app usage, such as in sales, development, or customer service
  • Customer portals where a consistent, seamless user experience is crucial
  • B2B collaborations that require federated identity management or secure partner access.

The introduction of SSO reduces security risks and IT costs while increasing user-friendliness and productivity.

Conclusion

Single sign-on (SSO) simplifies access to applications while enhancing security, efficiency, and user experience.

Companies benefit from fewer password problems, lower IT costs, and higher employee productivity.

In combination with multi-factor authentication (MFA) and risk-based authentication (RBA), SSO provides a secure and user-friendly foundation for modern identity strategies.

When used correctly, SSO provides what digital identities need today: secure, fast, and trustworthy access across systems, clouds, and company boundaries.

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