

Adaptive Authentication, also known as Risk-Based Authentication, is a dynamic security approach that evaluates multiple risk factors like user behavior, device, location, and IP reputation during login attempts. Instead of enforcing strict authentication every time, it intelligently adjusts the security requirements based on real-time risk analysis. Low-risk activities allow seamless access, while high-risk actions trigger additional verification steps like Adaptive MFA.

miniOrange’s Adaptive Authentication solution strengthens login security without disrupting the user experience. By applying Risk-Based Authentication policies, miniOrange ensures that only legitimate users gain access, while potential threats are blocked or challenged with step-up authentication. This flexible security framework not only protects sensitive resources but also reduces unnecessary friction for trusted users.

## What is Adaptive Authentication? {#What is Adaptive Authentication?}

![What is Adaptive Authentication?](/blog/assets/2025/how-adaptive-authentication-works.webp)

Traditional authentication methods, including [Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)](https://www.miniorange.com/products/multi-factor-authentication-mfa),  require users to provide specific credentials each time they attempt to log in. While MFA strengthens security by adding layers like one-time passcodes or authenticator apps, it still follows a static model where the same steps are repeated for every login. This can create vulnerabilities, especially if users' credentials are compromised.

Adaptive Authentication takes a smarter, dynamic approach. Instead of treating every login attempt equally, it adjusts the authentication process based on real-time contextual risk factors such as IP address, device type, location, login time, and user behavior patterns. In low-risk scenarios, users can access resources seamlessly with minimal friction. In high-risk cases, the system enforces additional security measures like [Adaptive MFA](https://www.miniorange.com/products/adaptive-multi-factor-authentication-mfa) or blocks access altogether.

By combining Behavioral Authentication and [Context-Aware Authentication](https://www.miniorange.com/blog/5-reasons-to-deploy-context-based-authentication-for-your-organization/), adaptive systems ensure that authentication requirements are proportionate to the detected risk. Powered by Risk-Based Authentication, miniOrange’s Adaptive Authentication solution intelligently strengthens login security without compromising user experience, making it much harder for attackers to breach corporate systems.

## How Does Adaptive Authentication Work? {#How Does Adaptive Authentication Work?}

Adaptive Authentication, also known as [Risk-Based Authentication](https://www.miniorange.com/iam/solutions/risk-based-authentication-rba), builds a dynamic user profile based on attributes like geographic location, device type, IP address, and job role. Each time a user attempts to log in, the system analyzes these contextual signals and calculates a real-time risk score.

Depending on the assessed risk, authentication requirements are adjusted. For example, if a user logs in from a trusted device at a usual location, they may gain access seamlessly. However, if an attempt is made from an unknown device or an unusual location, the system may trigger additional steps such as device registration, answering security questions, or enforcing Adaptive MFA to verify identity.

By continuously evaluating context and behavior, Adaptive Authentication strengthens security without disrupting legitimate user activity, ensuring smarter access control based on real-world risk factors.

### Key Components of Adaptive MFA 

- **Contextual Factors**: Adaptive MFA evaluates multiple context signals such as the user's geographic location, registered device, IP address, and time of access. Any deviation from the normal pattern triggers additional authentication measures.  
- **Behavioral Biometrics**: The system also analyzes subtle user behaviors like typing speed, mouse movements, and touch dynamics. These behavioral patterns help differentiate between legitimate users and potential attackers without intrusive prompts.  
- **Risk Scoring**: Every authentication attempt undergoes real-time risk analysis. Based on the calculated risk score, the system decides whether to allow seamless access or enforce step-up [authentication methods](https://www.miniorange.com/blog/different-types-of-authentication-methods-for-security/) like additional MFA challenges.

## Benefits of Adaptive Authentication {#Benefits of Adaptive Authentication}

Here are some benefits of Adaptive Authentication

- **Stronger Data Security**: Shields corporate systems and sensitive information from unauthorized access by dynamically adjusting security measures based on risk.  
- **Seamless Integration**: Easily integrates with existing IT infrastructure while offering flexible, dynamic policy enforcement across applications and user groups.  
- **Real-Time Access Control**: Continuously evaluates login risk and adapts access requirements instantly, enhancing security without manual intervention.  
- **API-Driven Protection**: Extends adaptive authentication and enhanced security across cloud-based applications through simple API integrations.  
- **Cross-Platform Compatibility**: Supports a wide range of devices and browsers, ensuring secure access for users regardless of their platform.  
- **Smooth User Experience**: Embeds adaptive security measures without disrupting workflows, maintaining user productivity while strengthening defenses.

### Adaptive Authentication Methods

- **IP-Based Restriction**: Administrators define trusted or restricted IP address lists. Login attempts are evaluated against these lists to determine whether access is granted, challenged, or denied.  
- **Location-Based Restriction**: Users are allowed to log in only from approved geographic locations. Attempts from unauthorized locations may trigger additional authentication or be blocked.  
- **Device-Based Restriction**: Only registered and trusted devices are permitted for login, minimizing the risk of unauthorized device access.  
- **Time-Based Restriction**: Access is limited to predefined time windows or zones. Login attempts outside these parameters are either challenged with additional authentication steps or denied altogether.

![Adaptive Authentication Methods](/blog/assets/2025/adaptive-authentication-methods.webp)


## Adaptive Authentication and Machine Learning {#Adaptive Authentication and Machine Learning}

Modern Adaptive Authentication solutions harness the power of machine learning to enhance both security and user experience. By continuously learning from user behavior, such as device usage patterns, login times, geographic locations, and IP reputation, these systems build a behavioral baseline for every user.

When a login attempt deviates from the expected behavior, behavioral authentication techniques powered by machine learning assign a dynamic risk score. Based on this score and according to IT-defined policies, the system triggers context-specific responses such as adaptive MFA challenges or access denial.

Advanced Risk-Based Authentication solutions like [miniOrange](https://www.miniorange.com/products/authentication) integrate AI and machine learning to monitor authentication events in real time, automatically detecting unusual patterns and potential threats—ensuring faster, smarter protection for critical resources.

## Conclusion {#Conclusion}

Adaptive Authentication is no longer a luxury; it is a critical need in today’s complex cybersecurity environment. By dynamically adjusting security measures based on real-time risk signals like user behavior, device type, and login patterns, an advanced [authentication solution](https://www.miniorange.com/products/authentication) ensures enhanced protection without compromising user experience. To truly secure access, it is important to understand the [difference between Authentication vs Authorization](https://www.miniorange.com/blog/authentication-authorization-difference/)**.** While authentication verifies the user’s identity, authorization governs what actions they are permitted to take. 

Adaptive Authentication strengthens the authentication step, ensuring only verified users move forward to access sensitive resources. Organizations that invest in risk-based authentication and adaptive MFA not only protect their systems but also prepare for evolving threats. Ready to implement intelligent, context-aware security? [Contact Us](https://www.miniorange.com/contact) to explore a tailored solution for your organization. [Book a 30 Days Free Demo](https://www.miniorange.com/iam/schedule-a-demo) today and see adaptive security in action\!

## FAQs {#FAQs}

### 1. Is adaptive authentication the same as risk-based authentication?
Yes, adaptive authentication and risk-based authentication are closely related. Both involve evaluating the risk level of each login attempt in real time based on contextual factors like device, location, and user behavior. Depending on the assessed risk, the system adapts authentication requirements, enforcing stronger security measures only when needed.

### 2. Can I combine adaptive authentication with MFA?
Absolutely. Adaptive authentication often works alongside Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) to provide an extra layer of security. In low-risk situations, users may log in with minimal steps, while in higher-risk scenarios, adaptive MFA challenges are triggered automatically, requiring additional verification like OTPs, biometrics, or security questions.

### 3. Does adaptive authentication affect user experience?
No, it actually improves it. Adaptive authentication ensures that trusted users can access resources seamlessly without unnecessary authentication barriers. Only when a login attempt appears risky does the system introduce additional steps, maintaining a strong balance between security and user convenience.

### 4. Can users bypass MFA for low-risk scenarios?
Yes, in low-risk scenarios, users can be granted access without triggering an MFA challenge. Adaptive authentication intelligently assesses the risk context, and if everything matches the user's normal behavior and device profile, it allows login with basic credentials while still keeping security intact.


Adaptive Authentication tailors security measures based on user behavior, location, device, and risk levels. This blog explores how it strengthens defenses, reduces friction, and delivers a safer login experience.

What is Adaptive Authentication and How It Enhances Security

In today’s digital landscape, safeguarding user access is critical. Explore types of authentication methods that secure systems and prevent unauthorized access.

What is Authentication? Different Types of Authentication


Passwords alone are no longer enough in today’s digital landscape. That’s where **context based authentication,** also known as adaptive or contextual authentication, comes into play. Unlike traditional methods, this approach evaluates real-time data such as user location, device, behavior, and time of access to make smarter access decisions.

[**miniOrange**](https://www.miniorange.com/) leverages this intelligent framework to strengthen identity verification through **context-based access control**, ensuring that only the right people access the right resources, under the right circumstances. By dynamically assessing risk and applying additional verification only when necessary, **context aware authentication** not only enhances security but also delivers a seamless user experience.

Absolutely! Here’s a fresh and well-structured version of your requested section using the reference content as inspiration. I’ve naturally incorporated the relevant keywords without overstuffing:

## What is Context-Based Authentication? {#What is Context-Based Authentication?}

**Context-based authentication** is also referred to as **context-aware authentication** or **contextual authentication,** is a modern approach that enhances traditional login security by evaluating the surrounding circumstances, or _authentication context_, during an access attempt. Rather than relying solely on usernames and passwords, it factors in signals such as user behavior, device type, location, and network trust to determine if access should be granted, challenged, or blocked. This access control model strengthens security while improving the user experience by applying additional checks only when necessary.

By introducing **context based access control** into authentication flows, organizations can effectively prevent unauthorized access and minimize the risk of data breaches. When combined with **conditional access** policies, it creates a dynamic, responsive framework for identity security, one that adapts based on risk, rather than applying blanket rules.

### \- Establishing a Baseline

The first step in **context based authentication** is understanding what looks “normal” for each user. This involves building a behavioral profile over time by observing typical login patterns, like device usage, login times, IP addresses, and geolocations. This **contextual identity** framework helps define what constitutes safe and expected behavior, allowing the system to differentiate between trusted and potentially malicious activity.

### \- Responding to Anomalies

Once a baseline is established, every login attempt is evaluated against it in real time. If any behavior deviates from the norm, such as access from an unusual location, use of an unfamiliar device, or login attempts during inactive hours, the system detects it as a potential anomaly. Depending on the risk level, it may enforce additional security measures like MFA, step-up verification, or even deny access entirely. This **context-based access control** mechanism ensures that sensitive actions or high-risk scenarios are met with appropriate levels of scrutiny, keeping systems secure without disrupting everyday operations.

## How Does Context-Based Authentication Work? {#How Does Context-Based Authentication Work?}

![How Does Context-Based Authentication Work?](/blog/assets/2025/context-based-authentication-flowchart.webp)

**Context-based authentication** operates by continuously analyzing the _authentication context_ surrounding every login attempt. This starts with the system collecting key data points such as a user’s typical login time, frequently used devices, known locations, network types, and more. Over time, this data helps build a **contextual identity**—a behavioral profile unique to each user.

When a login is initiated, the system compares the current context with this established profile. If the login behavior aligns with the expected patterns, access is granted seamlessly. However, if any anomalies are detected—like an unfamiliar device, a suspicious VPN, or an unusual location—the system dynamically adapts by applying **context based access control**. This might include triggering step-up authentication, enforcing conditional access, or blocking the attempt entirely. In essence, context-aware authentication ensures that access decisions are not based solely on credentials, but on real-time risk evaluation.

## Importance of Context Based Authentication {#Importance of Context Based Authentication}

With rising cyber threats and increasingly sophisticated attack vectors, relying on traditional authentication methods is no longer enough. Passwords can be stolen, and even basic MFA can be bypassed. This is where **context-based authentication** proves critical.

By incorporating **authentication context conditional access** and leveraging **contextual authentication**, organizations can significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access. It offers a smarter, adaptive layer of defense that evaluates each login attempt based on behavior and environment, not just credentials. This not only protects sensitive data but also enhances user experience by applying stricter controls only when necessary. In a world where security must be both strong and flexible, **context-aware authentication** stands out as a vital pillar of modern identity and access management.

## Benefits of Context Based Authentication {#Benefits of Context Based Authentication}

Implementing **context-based authentication** provides a modern, risk-aware approach to securing access, offering security and usability. Here’s how organizations benefit from implementing this framework:

### 1\. Enhanced Security

By analyzing multiple real-time factors, such as device health, user behavior, and location, **contextual authentication** adds a powerful layer of defense against unauthorized access. This proactive risk assessment drastically reduces the chance of credential misuse, brute-force attacks, or insider threats, ensuring only legitimate users gain access.

### 2\. User Convenience

Unlike traditional methods that apply the same level of security to every login, **context-aware authentication** tailors the experience based on trust signals. When risk is low, users can enjoy seamless access without repeated prompts, reducing friction while maintaining strong security..

### 3\. Adaptability

One of the core strengths of **context based authentication** is its ability to evolve. As user behavior, devices, or work environments change, the system adapts in real time, learning new patterns and adjusting policies accordingly. This flexibility makes it more effective than static, rule-based systems.

### 4\. Ensures Regulatory Compliance

With growing compliance requirements across industries, **authentication context conditional access** helps meet standards like GDPR, HIPAA, PCI-DSS, and NIST. By controlling access to sensitive data based on risk and user context, organizations can enforce strict data protection policies and demonstrate compliance with global regulations.

### 6\. Enables Zero Trust Architecture

**Context-based authentication** aligns perfectly with Zero Trust principles “never trust, always verify.” It continuously evaluates user and device context for every access attempt, assuming no implicit trust. This dynamic verification strengthens perimeter-less security models and supports phishing-resistant, identity-first defense strategies.

### 7\. Improves User Experience (UX)

By intelligently deciding when additional verification is necessary, **contextual identity** solutions keep the authentication process streamlined for trusted users. This balance of security and ease of access enhances user satisfaction**,** leading to smoother workflows and higher productivity.

## What is Webauthn? {#What is Webauthn?}

[WebAuthn](https://www.miniorange.com/blog/what-is-webauthn/), or Web Authentication, is a cutting-edge global standard for web authentication that leverages a browser-based API to enable more secure and simplified user logins. By using public key cryptography, WebAuthn allows users to employ their registered devices, like phones and laptops, as authentication factors. This method not only enhances security by ensuring that user credentials are not stored on a server—thus protecting against phishing and other cyber threats—but also streamlines the login process, making it faster and more user-friendly without compromising safety. Ideal for both tech-savvy users and those new to digital security, WebAuthn is shaping up to be a fundamental shift in how we secure our online interactions.

## What are the Different Types of Context-Based Authentication? {#What are the Different Types of Context-Based Authentication?}

**Context based authentication, also** known as **adaptive authentication** or **context-aware authentication**, comes in several forms, each tailored to address different aspects of risk and user behavior. Depending on the organization’s security requirements, these methods help implement smarter **context-based access control** by evaluating the _authentication context_ in real time.

These techniques not only safeguard [**workforce identity**](https://www.miniorange.com/iam/workforce-identity) but also protect [**customer identity**](https://www.miniorange.com/iam/customer-identity-access-management-ciam) in various high-risk or unusual scenarios. The most commonly used types of **contextual authentication** include:

### 1\. Location-Based Authentication

This method assesses the user’s physical location as part of the _authentication context_. For example, if an employee typically logs in from their home or office location but suddenly attempts access from a different country or city, the system flags this as unusual. It may then trigger **multi-factor authentication (MFA)** or deny access entirely. This is especially valuable for remote teams, ensuring access is granted only from trusted geographic regions.

### 2\. Time-Based Authentication

**Time-based authentication** leverages the user’s typical login hours to validate access. If an employee usually accesses systems between 9 AM and 6 PM, but a login attempt is made at 2 AM, the system considers it suspicious. By applying **contextual authentication** rules, it can challenge the attempt with additional verification or block it altogether. This approach reduces risks associated with stolen credentials being misused outside of regular hours.

### 3\. Device-Based Authentication

In this type of **adaptive authentication**, the system recognizes and records known devices such as a user’s corporate laptop or work phone. If an access request is made from an unrecognized or potentially compromised device, it triggers step-up authentication. This strengthens **context based access control** by ensuring that only verified devices can connect to critical applications and data.

### 4\. Behavioral-Based Authentication

**Behavior-based authentication** uses behavioral biometrics and patterns, such as typing speed, mouse movement, and usage trends, to verify identity. If an employee’s behavior suddenly deviates from their normal routine (e.g., logging in at an odd time from a new device and location), the system identifies it as an anomaly. This high-precision form of **context aware authentication** often works alongside MFA to secure both **customer and workforce identity**, making it ideal for high-risk environments.

### 5\. Risk-Based Authentication

Also known as **risk-adaptive authentication**, this method assesses the overall risk level of each login attempt. The system dynamically adjusts its response based on a combination of signals, like device reputation, IP address, geographic location, and more. For instance, a customer logging in from their usual phone and location might gain access instantly, while a suspicious attempt from a public network or unknown device might be blocked or require extra steps. This balance of user convenience and **contextual authentication** enhances security without creating unnecessary login friction.

## Learn how to Deploy Context-Based Authentication for Your Organization {#Learn how to Deploy Context-Based Authentication for Your Organization}

Context based authentication enhances security by evaluating multiple factors before granting access. Here are five reasons to implement it for workforce and customer identity.

### 1\. Enhanced Security:

Contextual access provides an additional layer of security beyond traditional authentication methods such as passwords, pins, or tokens. It evaluates contextual factors such as user location, the time factor, device type, and network connectivity to determine whether or not access should be granted. This helps to prevent unauthorized access and reduce the risk of data breaches. Even if the user credentials are compromised, a hacker cannot access the user’s account because the deviation in context will trigger multi-factor authentication like OTP sent to the user’s mobile.

### 2\. Improved User Experience:

The user experience of both the employees and customers of an organization or business can be significantly improved by reducing the need for users to remember multiple passwords or credentials. Users can simply log in from their devices and access the system or application based on their contextual factors. Contextual access can help to reduce frustration and increase productivity. Also, a more secure environment helps to build a strong trust factor and reputation among the customers, employees, and stakeholders. This is extremely crucial for the success of any organization.

### 3\. Compliance:

Many regulatory compliance frameworks require companies to implement advanced security measures to protect sensitive data. Many of these compliances are enforced by the local governing bodies and for any business which may be locally based or multi-national, following these compliances are very crucial in order to function in that particular region or country. For multi-national companies, things get more complicated as they have to follow multiple compliances set by governments of different countries. Context based authentication can help organizations to meet these compliance requirements by providing an additional layer of security beyond traditional authentication methods.

### 4\. Cost-Effective:

Every organization should focus on cost-effective solutions without compromising on quality. Being cost-effective doesn’t mean spending less; it means every penny you invest is for a righteous cause that brings positive results for the betterment of your business. Cost-effective solutions can help in scalability and bring growth to your organization. When it comes to secure authentication, Context based authentication can be a cost-effective security measure because it reduces the need for expensive hardware or software-based authentication methods. It can also reduce the unnecessary costs associated with password resets and help desk support.

### 5\. Scalability:

When any organization decides to spend on security then it is very important to focus on the scalability factor. The security solution must be able to meet the growing demand of the organization. If a 100-person organization grows to 1000+, then the security solution also must simultaneously scale in order to cater to the increasing headcount. Similarly, this might be the case with a growing customer base. Context based authentication can be easily scaled to meet the needs of a growing organization.

### Conclusion

In an age where cyber threats evolve faster than ever, context-based authentication stands out as one of the most effective passwordless security strategies for protecting your organization's digital and physical assets. By continuously analyzing the authentication context, this adaptive approach safeguards customer, employee, and stakeholder access in real time, across all platforms.

With miniOrange security software, you get an integrated suite of powerful Identity and Access Management (IAM) solutions—ranging from [Single Sign-On (SSO)](https://www.miniorange.com/products/single-sign-on-sso) and [Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)](https://www.miniorange.com/products/multi-factor-authentication-mfa) to context-aware authentication, risk-based access control, and advanced [biometric authentication](https://www.miniorange.com/blog/everything-you-need-to-know-about-biometric-authentication/). Whether you prefer on-premise or cloud deployment, we offer tailored options that align with your business needs. Get started today by booking a free demo with our experts. [Contact us](https://www.miniorange.com/contact) and we will help you find the perfect security solution to keep your organization safe, compliant, and future-ready.

### FAQ

#### 1\. What is context-based authentication?

Context-based authentication is a security mechanism that evaluates real-time factors like location, devices, and user behavior to decide whether to grant or challenge access/ revoke the access.

#### 2\. What is context key verification?

Context key verification involves checking specific attributes such as device ID, IP address, or session data, this is done to validate the user's identity and authentication.

#### 3\. What are some real-world scenarios for using context-based authentication?

Some real-world examples include prompting extra verification if a login comes from a new location, outside business hours, or from an unknown device.

#### 4\. How does context-based authentication enhance security?

Context based authentication adds a dynamic layer of protection by detecting anomalies in user behavior and blocking or challenging risky login attempts in real time.


 Explain how context based authentication enhances security by evaluating factors like location, device, and behavior during the authentication process.

Understanding the Basics of Context-Based Authentication


### What is JWT (JSON Web Token)? {#what-is-jwt-json-web-token}
JWT, or JSON Web Token, is an open standard used to share information between two parties securely — a client and a server. In most cases, it’s an encoded JSON containing a set of claims and a signature. It’s usually used in the context of other authentication mechanisms like OAuth, OpenID to share user-related information. It’s also a popular way to authenticate/authorize users in a microservice architecture.  

JWT authentication is a token-based stateless authentication mechanism. It is popularly used as a client-side-based stateless session, this means the server doesn’t have to completely rely on a data store (or) database to save session information.  

JWTs can be encrypted, but they are typically encoded & signed.  We will be focusing on Signed JWTs. The purpose of Signed JWT is not to hide the data but to ensure the authenticity of the data. And that is why it’s highly recommended to use HTTPS with Signed JWTs.

### Structure of JWT {#structure-of-jwt}
JWT structure is divided into three parts: header, payload, signature & is separated from each other by dot (.), and will follow the below structure:

 

![JSON Web Token(JWT) Structure](/blog/assets/2023/jwt-structure.webp)

 

- Header  
The header consists of two parts:  
1. The signing algorithm being used
2. The type of token, which is in this case mostly “JWT”  
- Payload
The payload usually contains the claims (user attributes) and additional data like issuer, expiration time, and audience.  
- Signature  
This is typically a hash of the header and payload sections of the JWT. The algorithm which is used to create the signature is the same algorithm mentioned in the header section of the JWT. Signature is used to validate that the JWT token wasn’t modified or changed during transit. It can also be used to validate the sender.  

The header and Payload section of the JWT is always Base64 encoded.


### How does JWT Authentication work? When to use JWT Authentication? {#how-does-jwt-authentication-work-when-to-use-jwt-authentication}

When it comes to API authentication and server-to-server authorization, JSON web token (JWT) is particularly a useful technology. In terms of Single Sign-On (SSO), it means that a service provider can receive trustworthy information from the authentication server. 

By sharing a secret key with the Identity Provider, the Service Provider can hash a part of a token it receives and compare it to the signature of the token. Now, if that result matches the signature, the SP knows that the information provided has come from the other entity possessing the key.

The following workflow explains the authentication flow:

![JSON Web Token(JWT) Authentication Workflow](/blog/assets/2023/jwt-workflow.webp)


1. User sign-in using username and password.
2. The authentication server verifies the credentials and issues a JWT signed using a private key.
3. Moving forward, the client will use the JWT to access protected resources by passing the JWT in the HTTP Authorization header.
4. The resource server then verifies the authenticity of the token using the public key.  

The Identity Provider generates a JWT certifying user identity, and the resource server decodes and verifies the authenticity of the token using the public key.

Since the tokens are used for authorization and authentication in future requests and API calls great care must be taken to prevent security issues. These tokens shouldn’t be stored in publicly accessible areas like the browser’s local storage or cookies. In case there are no other choices, then the payload should be encrypted.

### How JWT Single Sign-On (SSO) works for multiple web apps {#how-jwt-single-sign-on-sso-works-for-multiple-web-apps}
Single Sign-On (SSO) allows you to authenticate users in your systems and subsequently informs applications that the user has been authenticated. On successful authentication, a JWT token is generated and returned, which can be consumed by the app to create a user session. The token is automatically verified with the IDP when they sign in. The user is then allowed to access the apps without being prompted to enter separate sign-in credentials.  

This security mechanism allows applications to trust the sign-in requests it gets from the systems. Furthermore, these apps will only grant access to the users who have been authenticated by you/admin & hence Single Sign-On (SSO) relies on JSON Web Token (JWT) for securing the exchange of user authentication data. Great care must be taken in terms of how this token is stored and managed.

### miniOrange JWT Authentication for Apps that don’t Support Standard SSO Protocols {#miniorange-jwt-authentication-for-apps-that-dont-support-standard-sso-protocols}

**Usecase: Create a custom SSO between 2 existing and independent websites with their own user database**

With [miniOrange](https://www.miniorange.com/?utm_source=miniorange+Blog&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=JWT+blog&utm_id=JWT+Blog-sso), you will be able to authenticate from existing User Stores and Identity Providers using protocols like SAML, OAuth OpenID, and SSO into websites that only support JWT Tokens. Yes, you heard it right. miniOrange provides Single Sign-On (SSO) for [JSON Web Token (JWT) apps](https://www.miniorange.com/iam/integrations/). This solution allows you to set up [Single Sign-On (SSO)](https://www.miniorange.com/products/single-sign-on-sso?utm_source=miniorange+Blog&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=JWT+blog&utm_id=JWT+Blog-sso) into your applications (say existing or independent), which does not support SSO Standard Protocols (like SAML 2.0, etc).  

This is done using JSON Web Token (JWT) tokens, and it can be easily integrated with your application built in any framework or language. This allows you to enable SSO for any mobile app, client-side apps, static sites which don’t support any SSO standard protocols and are built on platforms like React.js, Firebase, Cordova, Angular.js, etc. 

![miniOrange integration flow with jwt token](/blog/assets/2023/mo-integration-flow-with-jwt.webp)

&nbsp;  

#### **miniOrange makes it easy to enable SSO for your application with a simple 3-step process. All you need to do is:**

1. Embed a simple script on your site/app
2. Configure your Identity Provider/user store in miniOrange (optional)
3. Add a JWT App  

&nbsp;  

That’s it!! You can choose to either manage users in miniOrange or choose an external Identity Provider/user store. You can even enable MFA on top of SSO with just a configuration change, no other script changes or coding required. 

&nbsp;  

&nbsp;

#### **Checkout miniOrange’s JWT SSO solution for Most Trending Apps:**

- [Thinkific SSO](https://www.miniorange.com/thinkific-jwt-single-signon(sso)-solution?utm_source=miniorange+Blog&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=JWT+blog&utm_id=JWT+Blog-sso)
- [Webflow SSO](https://www.miniorange.com/webflow-single-sign-on-sso?utm_source=miniorange+Blog&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=JWT+blog&utm_id=JWT+Blog-sso)
- [Squarespace SSO](https://www.miniorange.com/squarespace-single-sign-on-sso?utm_source=miniorange+Blog&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=JWT+blog&utm_id=JWT+Blog-sso)
- [BigCommerce SSO](https://www.miniorange.com/bigcommerce-single-sign-on-sso?utm_source=miniorange+Blog&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=JWT+blog&utm_id=JWT+Blog-sso)  

&nbsp;  

&nbsp;  

#### **Additional Helpful Links:**

- [Setup SSO authentication using JWT (JSON Web Token) | SSO for JWT apps | JWT Authentication| JWT SSO](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8lSsEQm_J6E)
- [Setup SSO for any JWT Application](https://www.miniorange.com/iam/content-library/admin-docs/how-to-add-jwt-app)
- [Popular apps that use JWT for SSO](https://www.miniorange.com/iam/integrations/)

What is JWT (JSON Web Token)? JWT, or JSON Web Token, is an open standard used to share information between two parties securely — a client and a server.

What is JWT (JSON Web Token)? How does JWT Authentication work?


With the news that ‘RSA Access Manager’ (and previously known as ClearTrust), would reach end-of-life (EOL) status in June 2021, RSA Access Manager customers are looking to migrate to another Identity and Access Management (IAM) platform.

Migrations are most successful when handled with the best methods and planned approach. miniOrange is taking all these issues like cost, MFA methods & **providing support to all organizations for easy and free migration from RSA Access Manager**. miniOrange Identity platform ensures that organizations benefit from the use of its solution by ensuring their RSA tokens can coexist with their miniOrange Identity Platform deployment until all users are fully migrated.

### miniOrange IAM with advanced Data Model {#miniorange-iam-with-advanced-data-model}

miniOrange provides a solution to the migration path for RSA customers providing with smooth workflow process and a good user interface. Authentication is the most crucial and identity security solution to avoid much brute force, phishing attacks, credentials stuffing and secure access to the data for all workspace and customer authorizations.

miniOrange **[Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)](https://www.miniorange.com/products/two-factor-authentication-(2fa))** helps you in authenticating users by verifying two different factors and ensuring the right set of authentication to your sensitive information and protect user identities on both cloud and on-premise.

With the increase of security risks across global organizations miniOrange updated the features with 15+ authentication methods includes a soft token, Hard tokens, Google, Microsoft, and miniOrange authenticators with various population integrations with OpenVPN, Fortnite, Windows, Sharepoint, Office 365, and many more. 

In this era of Telecommuting, the MFA method of authentication features allows employees to safely access data from any device or location without putting sensitive data at risk. Having a second form of identification greatly decreases the chance of a hacker gaining access to corporate devices or other sensitive information. It makes less suspicious activity helps in managing cost on security than the other security factors to be considered.

### What if Secure tokens are theft or Lost! {#what-if -secure-tokens-are-theft-or-lost}

MFA is a driven process in current security practices compared to adaptive MFA.  MFA follows a set design and has certain rules to be followed, concerning versatile validation, the end-client is a necessary part of the security cycle.

[Adaptive MFA](https://www.miniorange.com/products/adaptive-multi-factor-authentication-mfa) is a technique that MFA  can be built and exploited in a way that the system will choose the validating multiple verifications based on a user’s profile which is considered as part of a boarding process for authentication, alternatively of applying risk assessment during the authentication process.

miniOrange knowledgeable adaptive authentication Identity provider system supports many broad set of modern mechanisms like Device Profile management, Geo-Location recognition, IP Network Context-based and more which therefore reducing the prospect of account blocking for your employees more than just the use of OTP tokens like RSA Secure ID, Symantec VIP.

miniOrange IAM, the best access manager rights to the corporate IT systems and Platforms. Moving behind user name and passwords miniOrange provides these types of authentications based on clients, devices, and locations, and a set of updated factors to verify any user.

Adding new apps and clients is simple, offering quick and ideal opportunities on migrating from the existing cloud and on-premise MFA outcomes. With seamless single sign-on and identity governance the board, miniOrange makes it simple to make sure about clients, devices, and applications.

### RSA Access Manager vs miniOrange {#rsa-access-manager-vs-miniorange}

| Features                     | RSA Access Manager                                 | miniOrange                                     |
|------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------|
| Infrastructure               | Hardware, Software Infra                           | Enterprise Level                              |
| Support                      | Reliability & Support Issues                       | 24*7 Active Support                            |
| Update/Upgrades              | EOL Announced                                     | Continuously Update/Upgrades, Future Proof    |
| Price                        | Costly                                            | Best in the Market                            |
| Cloud Environment             | No viable cloud strategy                          | Robust & best user experience                 |
| MFA Methods – Hardware Token | Through RSA tokens with per token cost            | 15+ MFA methods                               |


### Further Reading {#further-reading}

- [What is Multifactor Authentication (MFA)?](https://blog.miniorange.com/what-is-multi-factor-authentication-mfa/)
- [Two Factor Authentication – 2FA](https://www.miniorange.com/products/two-factor-authentication-(2fa))
- [Adaptive Multifactor Authentication](https://www.miniorange.com/products/adaptive-multi-factor-authentication-mfa)

Migrating from RSA’s Access Manager? Get easy and free support for your organizations to tackle issues like cost, MFA methods, etc.

Adaptive Authentication

What is Adaptive Authentication and How It Enhances Security

What is Authentication? Different Types of Authentication

Understanding the Basics of Context-Based Authentication

What is JWT (JSON Web Token)? How does JWT Authentication work?

Migrating from RSA Access Manager to miniOrange Identity Platform