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Authentication scheme where one identity session grants access to multiple relying parties via tokens.

Definition

SSO uses a central identity provider to authenticate users and issue tokens/assertions to multiple services. It simplifies account management and enables consistent MFA and policy enforcement.

In plain English Authentication scheme where one identity session grants access to multiple relying parties via tokens.

Why this matters

Why it matters: Centralization reduces password reuse but creates a high-impact failure point; privacy depends on attribute minimization and logging controls.

Example

Example: Enforce MFA at the IdP and limit shared attributes per application (just-in-time provisioning).