Implementing Single Sign-On (SSO) offers various benefits for organizations and their employees such as streamlining authentication, reducing helpdesk password resets and enhancing security. However, SSO also comes with some disadvantages such as creating a single point of failure, complex implementations and not all apps supporting the use of SSO.
Continue reading to learn more about the benefits and disadvantages of SSO plus solutions that make managing SSO more efficient and user-friendly for organizations.
What is single sign-on?
Single sign-on is a form of passwordless authentication that enables people to access multiple systems and apps with just one set of login credentials. To use SSO, users must first authenticate with the SSO provider. Then, the SSO provider generates an encrypted one-time token for accessing different services. This eliminates the need for users to remember multiple login credentials, enhancing usability and productivity. SSO also provides organizations with centralized management of user access to various services, making security administration easier.
The pros of single sign-on
Here are the three main benefits of implementing single sign-on.
Streamlines authentication
One benefit of implementing SSO is it streamlines authentication processes, which leads to improved operational efficiency and productivity. With SSO, employees no longer have to log in separately to various systems or applications, saving them time and improving their user experience.
Reduces helpdesk password resets
SSO simplifies password management, resulting in fewer helpdesk password resets. Since users no longer need to juggle multiple login credentials, there’s a decrease in the workload for the IT department, translating into cost savings. Companies can redirect these saved resources toward other critical IT projects or innovations.
Enhances security
Many security issues arise from poor password practices. Implementing SSO reduces security risks related to passwords by requiring users to manage only one strong set of login credentials. Additionally, SSO solutions often incorporate Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), which adds extra layers of security and mitigates the risk of account compromise.
The cons of single sign-on
While single sign-on simplifies access to multiple applications and services, it also comes with disadvantages.
Creates a single point of failure
SSO lets users access multiple services with a single set of login credentials, which is convenient but risky. If the SSO system is not properly maintained, threat actors can potentially compromise it and gain access to multiple services at once.
Additionally, if the SSO system experiences downtime, users may not be able to log into any dependent applications or services. Since authentication depends on the SSO system, any issues like system failure or maintenance can prevent access to all services.
Implementing SSO can be complex
Implementing single sign-on can be complex because it requires organizations to invest significant time and resources. During the implementation of SSO, organizations will need to integrate and tailor their SSO system to apps that support the use of SSO, which can be complex and challenging.
Not all apps support SSO
While many popular services and applications support SSO, many still don’t – especially legacy Line-of-Business (LOB) apps that perform critical back-end business functions and are not easily refactored or replaced. This can create friction and increase security risks for users who need to access both SSO-supported and non-supported services because they’ll still need to manage login credentials for services that don’t support SSO.
How Keeper helps deal with the cons of SSO implementation
Keeper SSO Connect®, a feature of Keeper Enterprise, is designed to simplify access management for organizations using single sign-on, while also enhancing security through existing Identity Providers (IdPs). Here’s how Keeper SSO Connect simplifies SSO implementation.
Fills SSO security gaps
Keeper bridges security gaps by securely storing and managing passwords, passkeys and DevOps secrets in a secure digital vault. With Keeper, organizations ensure secure access to every system necessary for employees to perform their job duties effectively.
Moreover, for services that do not integrate with SSO, efficient management of login credentials becomes essential. In such instances, Keeper streamlines the process and ensures security and accessibility across multiple platforms.
Acts as a backup in the event of SSO downtime
Keeper also serves as a secure backup solution if and when an organization’s SSO provider experiences downtime. Passwords and passkeys are securely stored and managed in an encrypted vault, accessible across various operating systems and platforms. Additionally, Keeper’s offline access feature ensures uninterrupted access to vaults even when unable to connect online, offering a robust contingency plan during SSO provider outages.
Fill your SSO security gaps with Keeper SSO Connect
While many organizations implement single sign-on, their setup is less than ideal due to the gaps left that expose the organizations. Keeper SSO Connect steps in as a dependable and user-friendly solution crafted to fill in these gaps. By using Keeper SSO Connect, organizations can rid themselves of the hassle of complicated password management and achieve smooth user access without sacrificing security.
Discover how Keeper can fill your organization’s SSO security gaps by requesting a demo today.
Request a Demo
