Single Sign-On (SSO)

Single Sign-On (SSO) is an authentication method that allows users to access multiple independent systems and applications with a single login. Instead of requiring separate credentials for each platform, one central login is sufficient—the user is then seamlessly passed on to all connected services.

In the background, an SSO service ensures that authentication is centrally managed and transmitted to trusted services—typically via protocols such as SAML, OAuth, or OpenID Connect. As a result, SSO not only reduces the burden on users but also minimizes the attack surface by decreasing password usage and storage.

A key advantage of SSO is user convenience: fewer passwords mean less frustration, reduced support costs due to fewer forgotten credentials, and increased productivity. At the same time, central management makes it easier to enforce security policies and monitor user activity.

However, the main risk lies in the fact that if an SSO identity is compromised, access to all connected systems may be at risk. Therefore, it is essential to combine SSO with additional security measures such as multi-factor authentication and continuous monitoring.

SSO is an indispensable component of modern IT infrastructures and identity management solutions. Especially when combined with IDaaS, Zero Trust, and automated permission models, it forms the backbone of secure and efficient access control.