SAML is an open standard for exchanging authentication and authorization data between parties, particularly in Single Sign-On (SSO) scenarios.
Description
Security Assertion Markup Language (SAML) is an XML-based framework that facilitates the exchange of authentication and authorization data between different entities in a secure manner. It is primarily used in Single Sign-On (SSO) systems, allowing users to log in once and gain access to multiple applications without needing to re-enter credentials. SAML achieves this by enabling the communication between an identity provider (IdP), which handles user authentication, and a service provider (SP), which provides access to the service or application. When a user attempts to access a service, the SP requests an assertion from the IdP, which verifies the user's identity and returns a token. This token contains user attributes and security assertions, allowing the user to access the application seamlessly. SAML is widely adopted in enterprise environments due to its ability to enhance security, reduce password fatigue, and improve user experience by centralizing authentication processes.
Examples
- Google Workspace uses SAML for SSO, allowing users to access multiple Google services with one login.
- Salesforce integrates with SAML providers to enable secure access for users across different platforms.
Additional Information
- SAML is widely used in enterprises to improve security and compliance by reducing the number of passwords users need to manage.
- It supports various security protocols, making it compatible with diverse applications and services.