The process of verifying the identity of a user or system.
Description
Authentication in the context of the Single Sign-On (SSO) protocol refers to the method by which a system validates the identity of a user before granting access to multiple applications with a single set of credentials. This process is crucial for enhancing security and streamlining user experience. In SSO, once a user logs in to one application, they can access other connected applications without needing to log in again. This is achieved through the use of tokens or tickets that confirm the user’s identity across different services. For instance, when a user logs into Google, they can easily access YouTube, Google Drive, and Gmail without needing to re-enter their password. This not only simplifies the user experience but also reduces the likelihood of password fatigue, where users might resort to unsafe practices like reusing passwords. Effective authentication methods in SSO may include multi-factor authentication (MFA), which adds an extra layer of security by requiring additional verification, such as a code sent to the user’s mobile device.
Examples
- Google SSO allows users to access multiple Google services with one login.
- Okta provides SSO solutions that help organizations manage user access across various applications.
Additional Information
- Authentication is often combined with authorization, which determines what resources a user can access.
- Common authentication methods include passwords, biometrics, and security tokens.