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Imagine logging into your CRM, then your project management tool, followed by your finance software - each with a different password. This daily ritual wastes lots of your time and increases security risks.
For instance, forgotten passwords lead to countless reset requests, bogging down IT support. When team members leave, removing their access from multiple systems becomes a logistical nightmare.
Fortunately, there is a solution for all these: Single Sign-On (SSO) tools. These platforms help streamline access, allowing employees to enter one set of credentials for all their applications.
SSO enhances security by enforcing strong authentication policies across the board. It also simplifies user management, enabling quick provisioning and deprovisioning of access rights.
This article will discuss the 8 best SSO tools available for SaaS-focused businesses in 2024. We aim to guide IT, finance, and procurement teams toward informed decisions.
TL;DR
- Single Sign-On (SSO) tools simplify access by allowing users to log in once for multiple applications, enhancing security and user experience.
- SSO reduces password-related security risks by integrating strong authentication methods like multi-factor authentication.
- SSO tools streamline IT management by minimizing password reset requests and simplifying user provisioning/deprovisioning.
- Popular SSO tools for 2024 include Okta, Azure Active Directory, OneLogin, and Auth0, each offering different features for security and user access control.
- Integration with platforms like CloudEagle can optimize SaaS management, saving costs and improving operational efficiency.
What Is Single Sign On and Why Is It Important?
Single Sign-On allows you to access multiple applications and services with just one set of credentials.
Instead of juggling different usernames and passwords, you log in once and gain entry to all your authorized systems. With this streamlined approach, you will transform how you interact with your digital workspace.
Why is SSO Important?
1. Enhanced Security
SSO significantly bolsters your organization's security posture. It helps reduce the number of login credentials, and with this, you minimize potential entry points for cybercriminals.
For instance, according to Security Boulevard, 59% of employees use the same password for different systems.
Let's assume there is a breach in one system, and the password is compromised. That will mostly mean the other systems are at risk since they might have used the same password.
SSO, on the other hand, often integrates with more robust authentication methods, like multi-factor authentication, further fortifying your defenses against unauthorized access.
2. Improved User Experience
With SSO, you do not have to keep memorizing multiple passwords. You and your team no longer waste time repeatedly logging into different applications throughout your workday.
This easy access boosts your productivity and enhances your overall satisfaction with workplace technology.
3. Cost-Effective IT Management
SSO is very beneficial for your IT department. It dramatically reduces the number of password-related help desk tickets.
For example, your IT team can focus on more strategic tasks instead of fielding dozens of password reset requests daily.
Additionally, when integrated with identity management systems like CloudEagle, SSO simplifies user provisioning and deprovisioning processes, saving resources.
4. Regulatory Compliance
SSO aids in meeting different regulatory requirements. It provides a centralized point for implementing and enforcing access policies.
This centralization makes it easier for you to demonstrate compliance with regulations like HIPAA or Sarbanes-Oxley, which demand strict control over data access and user authentication.
How Does SSO Work?
SSO operates through a trust relationship between your service providers and an identity provider. When you access a system, it sends a token to the identity provider.
If you're already logged in, the provider immediately grants access. Otherwise, you'll need to authenticate. After successful login, the identity provider sends a verified token back to the application, granting you access.
Google is an excellent example of how SSO works. When accessing CloudEagle with your Google account, for instance, you first click the Google login option on CloudEagle's page.
CloudEagle then redirects you to Google's login page, where you enter your credentials. If correct, Google verifies these credentials and sends an authentication token to CloudEagle.
CloudEagle validates this token with Google and, upon confirmation, grants you access. This process eliminates the need for separate CloudEagle login details.
The process repeats seamlessly for each application you use. The trust relationship, established through exchanged certificates, ensures secure token verification.
What Are Single Sign on Tools?
Single Sign-On tools are software solutions that help you access multiple applications with one set of credentials automatically.
These tools centralize and manage user authentication, eliminating the need for separate logins across different platforms.
CloudEagle, for example, is a SaaS management platform that helps optimize your organization's SaaS stack. It integrates seamlessly with SSO tools, and with that, CloudEagle provides a holistic view of your portfolio and associated spending.
When you connect CloudEagle with your SSO tool, you gain complete visibility into your app usage and expenditure.
This integration allows you to track real-time usage patterns across all your SaaS applications, helping you identify underutilized licenses and potential cost-saving opportunities.
CloudEagle's workflow automation capabilities streamline various IT processes. You can automate procurement procedures to ensure compliance with your organization's policies while expediting software acquisitions.
The platform also simplifies employee onboarding and offboarding by automatically managing app access rights based on user roles and employment status.
License harvesting is easier with CloudEagle. The system identifies inactive or underused licenses and lets you reclaim them using automated workflows and harvest them for the next user.
Regular app access reviews are also automated, enhancing security and ensuring that only authorized personnel can access sensitive data.
Leveraging CloudEagle alongside your SSO tool creates a robust, efficient, and cost-effective SaaS management ecosystem. This combination enhances security and drives significant cost savings and operational efficiencies across your organization.
Top 8 Single Sign on Tools
1. Okta
Okta offers an SSO solution that streamlines access to your organization's applications. You can manage user authentication centrally, eliminating the need for multiple passwords.
Additionally, Okta automates user lifecycle management, adjusting access rights as employees join or leave your company.
Key Features
Access without passwords: Eliminate traditional passwords by using biometrics or one-time codes.
Multi-factor authentication: Implement multiple verification steps for user login. Combine passwords with push notifications or biometrics to strengthen your access security.
Adaptive security policies: Set dynamic access rules based on user context. Adjust permissions according to location, device, or behavior.
Pros
- Implements high-level security standards.
- Provides a customizable SSO portal for users.
- Offers a self-service portal for licensed users.
- Allows multiple SSO policy choices with flexible MFA options.
Pricing
- SSO - $2/user/month.
- Adaptive SSO - $5/user/month.
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2. Azure Active Directory (Azure AD)
Microsoft Azure Active Directory provides comprehensive SSO capabilities, allowing your users to access multiple applications with a single set of credentials.
This solution simplifies access management and enhances security across your organization's SaaS portfolio.
Key Features
Enhanced authentication: Implement multi-factor authentication to add an extra layer of security, requiring users to verify their identity through secondary methods like mobile notifications or biometrics.
Self-service password management: Enable users to reset their passwords securely, reducing IT workload while maintaining robust security policies.
Centralized identity control: Manage user identities consistently across all applications and services from a single platform to ensure uniform security standards.
Pros
- Offers robust security features, including conditional access and threat intelligence.
- Seamlessly integrates with Office 365 products.
- Provides user-friendly self-service options.
Pricing
- Microsoft Entra ID P1 - $6.00 user/month.
- Microsoft Entra ID P2 - $9.00 user/month.
- Microsoft Entra Suite - $12.00 user/month.
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3. OneLogin
OneLogin streamlines user authentication and access management, allowing your team to use a single set of credentials for multiple applications. This solution reduces your IT department's administrative burden and enhances overall security.
Key Features
Advanced authentication: Implement multi-factor authentication using biometrics, SMS verification, or tokens to ensure only authorized users access your systems.
Comprehensive logout function: Enable users to sign out of all connected applications simultaneously.
Access control: Manage user access to all applications from a single dashboard to ensure tight control over sensitive data and resources.
Pros
- Offers an intuitive, user-friendly interface.
- Provides high customizability to meet specific organizational needs.
- Facilitates quick integration with various ERP applications.
Pricing
- Single Sign-On (SSO) - $4/user/month.
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4. Ping Identity
Ping Identity's SSO enhances your organization's security while boosting productivity. It allows your employees to access multiple applications with a single set of credentials, simplifying authentication processes.
Key Features
Simplified compliance management: Enforce access policies and generate detailed audit logs, streamlining your compliance reporting process.
User-driven account management: Enable users to reset passwords and manage profiles independently, reducing IT workload and fostering employee autonomy.
Application integration: Seamlessly connect with various cloud-based and on-premises systems.
Pros
- Offers multiple SaaS solutions.
- Provides robust identity and access management features.
- Implements MFA that functions even without network connectivity.
Pricing
Automated pricing.
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5. Keeper Security
Keeper Security provides a robust password management and security platform, integrating seamlessly with SSO solutions. It helps you enforce strong password policies across your organization, enhancing overall security.
Key Features
Multi-factor authentication: Implement multi-factor authentication, requiring users to verify their identity through multiple means, significantly reducing unauthorized access risks.
Endpoint access: Control access to various endpoints, including computers and mobile devices, ensuring secure connections across all platforms.
Password policy enforcement: Set and enforce specific password policies to allow you to maintain stringent security standards throughout your organization.
Pros
- Offers straightforward configuration and deployment processes.
- Provides excellent customer support.
- Features a wide range of tools suitable for diverse team needs.
- Seamlessly integrates with existing SSO, LDAP, and 2FA systems.
Pricing
Automated pricing.
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6. Citrix
Citrix offers SSO solutions as part of its Secure Workspace Access and Secure Internet Access platforms. This integration simplifies user access while enhancing your organization's overall security posture.
Key Features
Enhanced security verification: Implement multi-factor authentication quickly to add crucial layers of protection beyond traditional passwords.
Universal application access: Ensure consistent SSO experience across desktop, mobile, and cloud applications to streamline user access regardless of device or location.
Secure remote connectivity: Enable employees to access corporate resources securely from any location, supporting flexible work arrangements without compromising security.
Pros
- Minimizes data compromise risks through the SaaS delivery model.
- Isolates web browsing activities, reducing malware threats to your corporate network.
- Offers user-friendly interface and operations.
Pricing
Automated pricing.
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7. SecureAuth Identity Platform
SecureAuth Identity Platform offers a next-generation SSO solution that leverages adaptive risk analytics to create a unique digital DNA for each user. This approach enables continuous, passwordless authentication, enhancing security across your SaaS stack.
Key Features
Authentication user experience: Simplify the login process across multiple systems, providing your team a seamless and user-friendly experience.
Multi-factor authentication: Implement multi-factor authentication, requiring users to verify their identity through something they know, have, or are.
Support for multiple operating systems: Control endpoint access across different operating systems to ensure consistent security measures regardless of device type.
Pros
- Delivers a comfortable and flexible user interface.
- Offers reliable customer support.
- Adaptable to hybrid and multi-cloud environments.
Pricing
Automated pricing.
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8. Auth0
Auth0 provides a modern, flexible SSO solution that secures access to all your applications for every user. It balances simplicity and customization, allowing you to tailor authentication processes to your specific needs.
Key Features
Supports required authentication systems: Integrate various authentication methods, including biometrics, passwords, and token-based systems.
Endpoint access: Control access across multiple endpoints, from computers to mobile devices, maintaining consistent security across all platforms.
Remote access: Enable safe connections to legacy applications, web resources, and network assets for employees working outside your local network.
Pros
- Offers robust customization options for business-specific logic.
- Provides extensive documentation and responsive email support.
- Delivers a reliable, well-tested platform.
- Simplifies implementation through user-friendly dashboards.
Pricing
- Free - $0/month.
- Essentials - $35/month.
- Professional - $240/month.
- Enterprise - automated pricing.
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Conclusion
Single Sign-On tools have become essential for modern businesses, streamlining access management while enhancing security. By implementing SSO, you reduce password fatigue, minimize security risks, and boost productivity across your organization.
When selecting an SSO tool, consider your specific needs, integration capabilities, and scalability.
For even more robust security, integrate your chosen SSO tool with SaaS management and access governance systems like CloudEagle. This combination provides comprehensive control over user access and data protection.
Ready to transform your organization's security and efficiency? Book a demo with CloudEagle today.
Our experts will guide you through seamlessly integrating SSO with advanced identity management, tailoring a solution that perfectly fits your business needs. Don't wait to enhance your SaaS security—take the first step now.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the most common SSO?
The most common SSO is typically OAuth 2.0. This open standard for access delegation is widely used due to its flexibility and security. It allows you to grant third-party applications limited access to your resources without sharing your credentials.
2. What is the other name for single sign-on?
Single sign-on is often referred to as "SSO." Some also call it "enterprise SSO" or "SaaS SSO" when used in specific contexts.
3. Which protocol can perform SSO?
Several protocols can perform SSO, including SAML (Security Assertion Markup Language), OAuth 2.0, OpenID Connect, and Kerberos.
Each protocol has its own features, but SAML is the most popular for enterprise-level SSO due to its robust security and broad compatibility with different systems.
