Single Sign-On (SSO) differs from traditional authentication methods in several key aspects:
Number of Logins: With traditional authentication, users typically need to create and remember multiple usernames and passwords for different applications or services. In contrast, SSO allows users to log in once and gain access to multiple systems without needing to authenticate again.
User Experience: Traditional authentication can be cumbersome, especially when users have to remember and manage multiple credentials. SSO simplifies this process, providing a smoother and more efficient user experience by reducing the number of login prompts.
Security: While traditional authentication methods rely on individual usernames and passwords, which can be vulnerable to breaches, SSO often employs stronger authentication mechanisms, such as multi-factor authentication (MFA), to enhance security. Additionally, SSO centralizes user authentication, making it easier to manage and enforce security policies.
Administration: Managing user accounts and access rights can be complex with traditional methods, as administrators need to handle multiple systems individually. SSO centralizes user management, simplifying administration tasks and reducing the risk of errors or inconsistencies.
Example: Imagine a company where employees need to access email, a CRM system, and an internal project management tool. With traditional authentication, each system would have its own login credentials, requiring employees to remember multiple usernames and passwords. With SSO, employees would only need to log in once, perhaps using a corporate credential, and then gain seamless access to all three systems without additional login prompts.
Recommendation: Tencent Cloud offers a comprehensive Identity and Access Management (IAM) solution that supports SSO. This service allows enterprises to manage user identities and access permissions efficiently, providing a secure and seamless authentication experience across various cloud services and applications.