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Understanding SSO and SAML - A Beginner's Guide

· 2 min read
Sahil Phondekar
Sahil Phondekar
Sr. Software Engineer @Everestek

In today’s digital world, managing multiple usernames and passwords for different applications can be frustrating. That’s where Single Sign-On (SSO) and Security Assertion Markup Language (SAML) come in. These technologies streamline authentication, making it easier and more secure for users to access various applications with a single login.

What is SSO?​

Single Sign-On (SSO) is an authentication method that allows users to log in once and gain access to multiple applications without needing to re-enter their credentials. This improves user experience and enhances security by reducing password fatigue and minimizing the risk of weak passwords.

What is SAML?​

SAML (Security Assertion Markup Language) is an open standard that enables SSO by facilitating secure communication between an Identity Provider (IdP) and a Service Provider (SP). It allows the IdP to authenticate users and pass their credentials securely to the SP without requiring the user to log in again.

How SAML SSO Works​

  1. User Accesses Application: The user tries to access a service (SP) without logging in.
  2. Redirect to IdP: The SP redirects the user to the Identity Provider (IdP) for authentication.
  3. User Authentication: The IdP verifies the user’s identity (via username/password, MFA, etc.).
  4. SAML Response: Upon successful authentication, the IdP generates a SAML assertion (XML-based security token) and sends it back to the SP.
  5. SP Grants Access: The SP verifies the SAML response and logs the user in automatically.

Benefits of SAML SSO​

  • Improved Security: Eliminates the need for multiple passwords, reducing phishing risks.
  • Better User Experience: Users log in once and access multiple applications seamlessly.
  • Centralized Authentication: Organizations can manage access from a single authentication system.

Conclusion​

SAML-based SSO simplifies authentication and enhances security by allowing users to access multiple services with a single login. Whether for enterprises or individual applications, implementing SAML SSO improves both user convenience and IT efficiency.