What is SSO? How Single Sign-On Works? Softphone Software with Single Sign-On

A large organization spends more than $1 million each year just to manage password resets. Shocking, isn’t it? Now, imagine a solution that not only tackles this cost but also amplifies your IT security and efficiency. 

Introducing the innovative approach of Single Sign-On (SSO) that allows access to multiple applications through just one set of credentials. The question arises: how can such a simple change lead to significant improvements in both security and operational efficiency?

SSO streamlines user access, making it quicker and safer to navigate through various systems. When integrated with technologies like softphone systems, SSO can provide secure, instant access to communication tools, seamlessly integrating into the daily workflows of employees. 

Consequently, isn’t it time to consider how SSO could transform the way your business manages identity and access? Continue reading and get a comprehensive understanding on SSO and why it is increasingly crucial in streamlining business operations and fortifying security measures.

What is Single Sign-On (SSO)?

Single Sign-On (SSO) is an authentication process that allows users to access multiple applications with one set of login credentials, such as a username and password. This technology is especially beneficial in business environments where employees need to interact with various software tools and systems.

SSO’s unified access mechanism reduces password fatigue among users, decreases the risk of password-related breaches, and lowers IT support costs related to password recovery.

Types of Single Sign-On Methods

There are various methods and protocols that are used to implement SSO. Each of these methods addresses different aspects of authentication and authorization, providing businesses with a variety of options depending on their specific security needs, infrastructure, and the types of applications they use. 

For businesses looking to streamline their authentication processes and enhance security, here are the key SSO protocols that you should consider:

• Security Assertion Markup Language (SAML)

SAML is an open standard that facilitates the exchange of authorization and authentication data between parties, particularly between an identity provider and a service provider. It allows secure web domains to exchange user authentication and authorization data using XML. 

SAML is particularly useful for web applications as it can transmit information through a browser. This makes it a popular choice for enterprises requiring robust, cross-domain SSO.

• Open Authorization (OAuth)

OAuth is an authorization framework that allows third-party services to exchange web resources on behalf of a user. It is commonly used for enabling access without exposing user passwords. For example, when a user logs into an application using their Google account credentials, they can access third-party apps.

OAuth focuses on client developer simplicity while providing specific authorization flows for web applications, desktop applications, mobile phones, and living room devices.

• OpenID Connect (OIDC)

OIDC is an authentication layer on top of OAuth 2.0, which facilitates client applications to rely on authentication performed by an authorized server. This protocol allows servers to verify the identity of the end-user based on the authentication performed by an authorization server. It also enables the retrieval of basic profile information about the user in an interoperable and REST-like manner. OIDC extends OAuth 2.0 with capabilities for identity assertions, making it a powerful tool for SSO across internet-scale applications.

• Kerberos

Kerberos is a network authentication protocol designed to provide strong authentication for client/server applications by using secret-key cryptography. It is used widely in corporate environments, especially those using Microsoft products. It allows nodes to communicate over a non-secure network to prove their identity to one another securely. Kerberos is beneficial in closed environments where performance and reducing network latency are essential.

How Does Single Sign-On Work?

SSO simplifies the user experience by reducing password fatigue and login redundancy while enhancing security through centralized management of access and authentication processes. For businesses with numerous cloud applications and internal systems, this translates into a more secure and efficient operational environment.

Here is a detailed explanation of how SSO works, featuring a practical example to illustrate its functionality:

#1. User Login Attempt

Consider an employee at a large corporation who attempts to access the company’s CRM system. Instead of entering a unique set of credentials for the CRM, the employee clicks a link and is automatically prompted to interact with the central SSO system. This initial interaction begins the SSO authentication process.

#2. Redirect to Identity Provider

The CRM application acts as a service provider and redirects the login request to the company’s Identity Provider (IdP). 

• An IdP is a service, usually cloud-hosted, that manages and verifies user identities. It works alongside SSO to authenticate users efficiently. 

If the user isn’t already authenticated from a previous session, the IdP will request the user’s corporate login credentials.

#3. Authentication and Token Generation

Upon entering their credentials, the IdP verifies the user’s identity against its secure user database. If the credentials are correct, the IdP generates an encrypted authentication token. This token includes an assertion of the user’s identity, a timestamp, and an expiration time for the token.

#4. Token Passed Back to Service Provider

This authentication token is then sent back through the user’s browser to the CRM system. The CRM system sends this token to the IdP to validate its authenticity.

#5. Access Granted

Once the IdP confirms the token’s validity, the CRM system grants access to the employee without needing any further login details. This same token can now be used for accessing other applications within the corporate environment that also recognize the IdP. This allows the user to switch between services like email, HR portals, and more without logging in again.

#6. Example of SSO Working

For representation, after accessing the CRM, the same employee decides to check the company’s HR portal. Since they are already authenticated via the SSO system, clicking on the HR portal link allows immediate entry without the need for re-authentication. 

This seamless transition is managed through the SSO token that was initially created when accessing the CRM.

Strategic Benefits of Single Sign-On

Businesses implementing SSO can lead to increased productivity as users spend less time logging into multiple systems. This technology effectively supports modern enterprise needs by streamlining access management across a diverse ecosystem making it an essential component of contemporary IT environments. 

Below are some key benefits of SSO:

• Improved Security

By consolidating access through one set of credentials, SSO minimizes the likelihood of password theft. Users get more inclined to adopt complex, unique passcodes when they need to remember only one, enhancing overall security. 

Combining SSO with multi-factor authentication (MFA) and risk-based authentication (RBA) provides an additional layer of security. It allows the monitoring of unusual access patterns and the implementation of dynamic security measures based on user behavior.

• Decreased IT Costs

SSO can dramatically reduce IT-related costs, particularly those associated with password resets and account recoveries. Estimates suggest that up to 40% of help desk calls are for password issues, each costing organizations significantly in terms of support time and resources. By reducing the number of passwords users must manage, SSO decreases the frequency of these issues, leading to lower support costs and less downtime.

• Enhanced User Productivity and Satisfaction

Employees benefit from SSO through significantly reduced login frustrations. Managing multiple passwords for various applications can be unmanageable and time-consuming, often leading to decreased productivity and increased dissatisfaction. SSO simplifies the login process, allowing users quicker access to their applications and tools, thus boosting productivity and job satisfaction.

• Improved Customer Experience

For customers, SSO offers a seamless authentication experience that can lead to increased satisfaction and loyalty. In retail, healthcare, and banking sectors, where quick and hassle-free access is vital, SSO can significantly improve how customers interact with services.

• Increased Adoption Rates

SSO can lead to higher adoption rates of applications and services. When users encounter fewer barriers to entry, such as complex login procedures or multiple authentication steps, they are more likely to engage with the application frequently. SSO simplifies the initial access process, making it more likely that users will explore and continue to use the service.

• Effective B2B Collaboration

Federated Single Sign-On methods of SSO allow employees from multiple industries, such as manufacturing and distribution, to access various applications across different domains using a single set of credentials. This streamlined access facilitates enhanced collaboration and productivity by ensuring efficient use of shared systems and data without compromising security.

Softphone Software with Single Sign-On: Tragofone Leading the Innovation

The integration of SSO technology with softphone software represents a significant leap forward in communication solutions. Tragofone is leading this integration, and setting a new standard for the industry. With SSO, users can access their communication tools seamlessly without the need to manage multiple passwords or undergo frequent authentication processes.

The following are some of the innovations that let Tragofone lead the way among SSO platforms:

• Tragofone’s approach to VoIP softphone solutions combines robust security features, such as Secure Real-Time Transport Protocol (SRTP) and end-to-end encryption, with the flexibility of software-based communication. This allows businesses to maintain high levels of security while providing their workforce with the mobility to communicate from anywhere, on any device. 

• The platform supports a wide range of operating systems. It has the capability for customization and integration with third-party applications, like CRM systems, making it an adaptable solution for diverse business needs.

• The integration of SSO into Tragofone’s softphone software means that businesses can deploy a system that is not only easy to use but also meets high-security standards. This is especially beneficial for enterprises with a large user base or those operating in sectors where data security is paramount, such as finance and healthcare.

• Tragofone offers multilingual support and compatibility across various operating systems, ensuring a broad and inclusive user experience. The platform’s flexibility is further enhanced by its ability to integrate seamlessly with existing business applications. It thereby enhances productivity and ensures a unified communication experience.

Wrapping Up

As businesses continue to adopt digital transformation, the question arises: how can organizations streamline their operations while bolstering security and enhancing user convenience? The answer lies in adopting technologies that support seamless and secure user experiences. SSO stands out as an innovative technology in this respect, especially when integrated with advanced communication tools like softphone software.

For companies leveraging unified communications, integrating SSO with softphone software like Tragofone magnifies these benefits. Tragofone, a leader in VoIP and SIP softphone technology, uses SSO to streamline communication across various platforms without compromising on security. 

Experience firsthand the simplicity and security brought to your business communications by Tragofone. Don’t let outdated processes hold you back- explore how Tragofone with SSO can elevate your business by booking your free demo!