üksiksisselogimine

Üksiksisselogimine, commonly referred to as SSO, is an authentication scheme that allows a user to log in with a single set of credentials to access multiple independent software systems. Instead of requiring separate usernames and passwords for each application, SSO enables users to authenticate once and gain access to all connected services. This system significantly enhances user experience by reducing the number of login prompts and simplifies credential management for individuals.

The core principle behind SSO involves a trusted identity provider (IdP) that authenticates the user. Once authenticated by the IdP, the user receives a security token. This token is then presented to various service providers (SPs) which trust the IdP. Upon verifying the token's authenticity, the SP grants access to the user without requiring them to re-enter their credentials. Common protocols used in SSO implementations include SAML (Security Assertion Markup Language), OAuth, and OpenID Connect.

For organizations, SSO offers substantial security benefits by centralizing authentication and authorization processes. It allows for more robust password policies and simplifies the management of user access, especially when employees join or leave the company. Furthermore, it can streamline IT operations by reducing help desk calls related to forgotten passwords. However, the security of the entire system relies heavily on the security of the identity provider, making its protection a critical aspect of SSO implementation.