Single Sign-On (SSO) 🔑
Overview 🌐
Single Sign-On (SSO) is an authentication concept that enables users to authenticate once and gain access to multiple services and applications without needing to re-authenticate for each one. This is achieved by authenticating to a central authentication server and using a cookie or token to access various applications.
How It Works 🔄
Central Authentication: Users authenticate to a central authentication server (e.g., LDAP server).
Token/Cookie Issuance: The server issues a token or cookie that grants access to SSO-enabled applications.
Service Access: The user presents the token or cookie to access various services without additional logins.
Example 🛡️
Kerberos: A notable example of an SSO authentication service. Users authenticate once to obtain a ticket-granting ticket (TGT) and can use it to access multiple services without re-entering credentials.
Advantages 🎯
Convenience: Users need only one set of credentials to access multiple services.
Security: Reduces the risk of password-related issues, such as writing down or insecure storage.
Efficiency: Decreases the time spent re-authenticating and reduces support overhead for password recovery.
Disadvantages ⚠️
Increased Risk: If an attacker compromises an account, they can access all services associated with that account.
Token Theft: Attackers might steal SSO tokens or cookies, which can provide wide access without requiring full authentication until the token expires.
Multi-Factor Authentication: Tokens can bypass multi-factor authentication protections, emphasizing the need for additional security measures.
OpenID Example 🌍
OpenID: A decentralized authentication system allowing users to authenticate with third-party identity providers.
Process: The relying party (website) contacts the OpenID provider, establishes a shared secret, redirects the user to the provider for authentication, and then receives an authentication token once the user approves.
Benefits: Simplifies access management and avoids the need for the relying party to maintain its own authentication infrastructure.
SSO enhances user experience by consolidating authentication processes, but it's crucial to address its security implications through practices such as multi-factor authentication and secure handling of session tokens.
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