What is SSO and how does it work?

 SSO stands for Single Sign-On. It is an authentication process that allows users to access multiple applications or services with a single set of login credentials (such as username and password). Instead of having separate login credentials for each application, users can log in once and gain access to various systems and resources without the need to re-enter their credentials each time.

Here's How SSO work:👇

User Attempts to Access an Application: When a user tries to access an application or service that is SSO-enabled, they are redirected to a centralized authentication server.

Authentication Server Verification: The authentication server verifies the user's credentials. This could involve checking a username and password, or it might involve more advanced methods like biometric authentication or multi-factor authentication for enhanced security.

Issuance of Authentication Token: If the user's credentials are valid, the authentication server issues a secure token, often a JSON Web Token (JWT) or Security Assertion Markup Language (SAML) token.

Token Verification: The user is then redirected back to the application with this token. The application, instead of verifying the user's credentials itself, validates the token with a trusted token verification server.

Access Granted: If the token is valid, the user is granted access to the application without needing to log in again. The application can also retrieve user information from the token if needed.

SSO offers several benefits:

Improved User Experience: Users don't have to remember multiple sets of credentials, simplifying the login process.

Enhanced Security: SSO systems often support multi-factor authentication, adding an extra layer of security. Additionally, centralized control allows for easier management of user access and permissions.

Reduced Help Desk Workload: Since users are dealing with fewer passwords, there are fewer password-related issues, reducing the workload on support staff.

Streamlined User Provisioning and Deprovisioning: When a user joins or leaves an organization, SSO systems can easily grant or revoke access to multiple services in one go, ensuring timely updates to user access.

Types of SSO : 

SSO, or Single Sign-On, is a technology that enables users to log in once and gain access to multiple applications or services without needing to log in again. There are several types of Single Sign-On solutions, each catering to different needs and scenarios:

Enterprise Single Sign-On (ESSO): ESSO is designed for organizations and allows users within an enterprise network to access various applications and systems with a single set of credentials. This simplifies the login process for employees and enhances security by reducing the number of passwords users need to remember.

Web Single Sign-On (Web SSO): Web SSO enables users to log in once and access multiple web applications within a particular domain. It's widely used on the internet, especially in scenarios where users need to access different web services without having to log in separately for each one.

Federated Single Sign-On: Federated SSO allows users from one organization to access resources or services in another organization without having to create and manage separate user accounts. This is often used in collaborations between different companies or organizations.

Social Single Sign-On: Social SSO allows users to log in to third-party applications or websites using their social media credentials, such as Facebook, Google, or Twitter accounts. It simplifies the registration and login process for users and helps applications gather necessary user information.

Mobile Single Sign-On: Mobile SSO provides users with seamless access to multiple mobile applications after a one-time authentication. It's commonly used in mobile environments where users access various apps on their smartphones or tablets.

Each type of SSO has its advantages and is suitable for specific use cases, helping users and organizations streamline their authentication processes and enhance user experience.