Service-provider-initiated single sign-on (SP-initiated SSO) is a method of authentication where the login process begins at the SP's website rather than at the identity provider (IdP). In simpler terms, users first try to access a service (like a cloud app or an enterprise platform), are redirected to an IdP to confirm their authentication using protocols like OpenID Connect, and provide an assertion from the SP's application.
For example, when a user tries to access an online service like Salesforce, they are prompted to log in via their company's IdP, such as Microsoft Entra ID, which authenticates them and grants access to the service without the need for multiple passwords.
How does SP-initiated SSO work?
In SP-initiated SSO, the process begins when a user attempts to access a resource hosted by the SP. Here’s a breakdown of how it works:
- User requests access: The user tries to log in directly through the SP’s application.
- Redirects to IdP: The SP redirects the user to an IdP, such as Google or Okta, for authentication.
- IdP authenticates user: The user provides their credentials to the IdP, which verifies the user’s identity.
- Access granted: Upon successful authentication, the user is redirected back to the SP, and access to the application is granted without needing to log in again.
This flow creates a seamless login experience for users, as they only need to authenticate once to access multiple services.
Advantages of SP-initiated SSO
- Improved user experience: SP-initiated SSO significantly enhances the user experience by reducing the need for multiple login credentials. Users can move between applications without constantly entering login details, which boosts productivity.
- Enhanced security: Centralized authentication means stronger security measures. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) and single-point sign-on help reduce risks related to phishing, password fatigue, and identity theft.
- Reduced IT workload: SSO also reduces the administrative burden on IT teams. With fewer password-related support tickets and centralized user management, IT resources can be better allocated.
IdP-initiated SSO vs. SP-initiated SSO
While SP-initiated starts from the SP’s website, IdP-initiated SSO begins at the IdP’s portal, bypassing the login page of the application. In IdP-initiated SSO, users log in to the IdP and select the login page of the application they wish to access. This model is often used in environments where users need access to multiple applications from a single dashboard, like with Google Workspace or Microsoft 365. Click here to learn more about IdP-initiated SSO.
The choice between SP-initiated SSO and IdP-initiated SSO depends on the organization’s architecture and the user experience they want to provide.
SP-initiated SSO use cases
SP-initiated SSO is ideal for companies that provide access to several third-party services or SaaS applications. Some use cases include:
- Customer-facing applications: When customers or clients log in to platforms like banking apps, healthcare portals, or online services.
- SaaS platforms: For businesses offering SaaS solutions that integrate with third-party IdPs like ADSelfService Plus, Okta, OneLogin, or Microsoft Entra ID.
How to implement SP-initiated SSO for your business
To implement SP-initiated SSO, follow these steps:
- Choose an IdP: Select an IdP to authenticate users.
- Configure the SP: Set up the SSO integration with your SP (e.g., your application or service).
- Test the configuration: Ensure that the SSO login process is smooth and secure across devices.
- Enable MFA: Add another layer of security by requiring MFA during login.
Businesses can streamline this process with ADSelfService Plus.
Improve security and the user experience with ADSelfService Plus
While SP-initiated SSO is efficient, managing multiple services and integrating with different IdPs can become complex. ADSelfService Plus is a secure solution that simplifies SSO configurations and offers MFA, improving security while delivering a seamless user experience. With ADSelfService Plus, you can:
- Integrate with leading identity providers.
- Simplify user login experiences.
- Enable MFA for an additional layer of security.
Take control of your authentication process with ADSelfService Plus
People also ask
How is SP-initiated SSO different from traditional login methods?
Traditional logins require separate credentials for each application. In contrast, SP-initiated SSO allows users to authenticate once via an IdP, giving them access to multiple services without additional logins.
What is the difference between SP-initiated SSO and IdP-initiated SSO?
The main difference is where users start the login process.
- In IdP-initiated SSO, users log in first to the IdP and then select the app they want to access.
- In SP-initiated SSO, users start at the application they want to use, which then redirects them to the IdP for authentication.
What are the common IdPs used with SP-initiated SSO?
Some common IdPs include Microsoft Entra ID, Okta, Google Identity, OneLogin, and Ping Identity. These IdPs handle user authentication and provide the necessary credentials to SPs.
