
Not all single sign-on (SSO) solutions are made equal; some help with federated identities across multiple autonomous domains, and others help you log in to your favorite SaaS apps on the same domain. Single sign-on brings an intuitive dashboard with single-click logins everywhere. But how can you log in to applications that do not support a protocol? Well, that’s even possible today. Identity security has advanced significantly beyond merely safeguarding users and their data. It adds next-level convenience to our advanced multi-cloud and multi-device environment. While traditional SSO centralized logins within a corporate network, federated SSO extends access beyond that network's walls. This type of integration involves sharing authentication credentials with multiple cloud and external applications that utilize protocols such as [SAML](https://www.miniorange.com/iam/solutions/saml-single-sign-on-sso), OpenID Connect, and others. This blog clarifies federated vs. traditional SSO, shows when to use each, and demonstrates how miniOrange makes federated SSO simple to deploy. 2\. Core Components of SSO vs. Federated SSO

More passwords make the system riskier and harder for the user to remember. SSO's major goal is to reduce the number of passwords in a system to the lowest possible level while still keeping users safe and making it simple for them to use. Both SSO and federated SSO try to make logging in less of a hassle at different levels and in different areas.

## Single Sign-On {#Single Sign-On}

With SSO, users can log in to their apps safely without having to remember a list of passwords. It lets consumers log in to all of their favorite apps without putting their security at risk after they verify their identity once.

### Core Components of Traditional SSO

- **Access to Different SSO Apps**: You can use all the apps you need with just one login. This makes it easier for users to remember various passwords by giving them a single-click option to access all applications through an easy-to-use dashboard.
- **SSO Authentication Portal**: A single, safe login page where users may enter their credentials or use an [MFA method](https://www.miniorange.com/products/multi-factor-authentication-mfa-methods), like logging in using OTPs.
- **Identity Database**: A database (such as an [identity provider](https://www.miniorange.com/blog/what-is-an-identity-provider-idp/), LDAP, or active directory) stores users and their identity information, like usernames, passwords, and profile traits. This known source checks usernames and passwords.
- **Access Token**: When the app sends an authentication request to the identity provider, it gets back a signed access token or assertion (usually a cookie or JWT) that apps use for the session.
- **Session Management**: Keeps track of how long tokens are valid for and takes care of automated renewals or logouts. When users log out, session management automatically prevents them from accessing apps.

### Benefits of Traditional SSO

- Users forget fewer passwords and ask for [password resets](https://www.miniorange.com/products/self-service-password-reset-sspr) less often
- The IT staff gets roughly 50% fewer password-reset tickets.
- Centralized authentication makes it easy to add and remove users right away.
- Store all user session logs in one place for audits
- Make sure that all apps and systems follow the same rules for groups.

## Federated Single Sign-On (SSO) {#Federated Single Sign-On (SSO)}

If your business depends a lot on customers, campuses, or partners from other countries, its trusted identity needs to be able to work across borders and in different domains. Federated SSO connects identity systems across domains so that SSO can work for more than one enterprise.

The main components are

- **Identification Provider (IdP)**: Checks the user's identification against saved credentials or verified sources like single-use codes or PINs and then issues security tokens (via SAML or OpenID Connect).
- **Service Provider (SP)**: Uses tokens given forth by the IdP to give users access to applications based on user groups, granular-level access, or individual user traits.
- **Trust Relationship**: Ensures that the SP only sends real authentication requests to the IdP using digital certificates or shared secrets. These connect IdP and SP using XML metadata exchange via email, secure file sharing, hosted metadata URL, or cryptographic trust utilizing SAML assertions that are signed with both private and public keys.
- **Federation Protocols**: Standards like SAML 2.0 or OAuth 2.0/OIDC spell out the token formats and exchange flows that are part of the authentication process.

Cross-domain trust lets different organizations (such as colleges and partner firms) recognize one another's credentials without any problems, even if they are outside of their firewalls.

### Major Benefits of Federated SSO:

- No need to create, sync, or [deprovision](https://www.miniorange.com/products/user-provisioning) separate user accounts across domains; everything is done automatically.
- Great for joint ventures, mergers, and acquisitions
- Simple to add identity infrastructures while keeping directories
- Following the rules set by the government
- Strong identity protection across the whole company

Traditional SSO is still limited to one domain, where trust connections between [IdP and SP](https://www.miniorange.com/blog/idp-initiated-sp-initiated-login/) only happen within that domain. In one domain, certificate trust, metadata exchange, and token validation all happen.

Federated SSO takes this a step further by letting users log in to various domains without having to make new accounts each time. [Identity federation](https://www.miniorange.com/blog/identity-federation-services/) makes it possible to use the same user identities across several domains so that outside vendors, consumers, and cloud platforms can access services with credentials they already trust.

## Difference Between Federated SSO and Traditional SSO {#Difference Between Federated SSO and Traditional SSO}

Both federated SSO and traditional SSO centralize authentication, although they are used in various ways and with different designs. Federated SSO expands trust across businesses, while traditional SSO retains users in one trusted domain.

Use this side-by-side comparison of federated SSO vs. SSO to find the model that best fits your security demands and the ecosystem of your partners.

| Feature                   | Traditional SSO                                                                           | Federated SSO                                                                                                                                                  |
| ------------------------- | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| **Authentication Domain** | A single IdP provides and validates security tokens.                                      | Federated SSO supports multiple autonomous domains and cross-validates the IdP-issued security tokens.                                                         |
| **User Base**             | Internal employees are users in traditional SSO.                                          | Federated SSO can support both internal and external users.                                                                                                    |
| **Trust Setup**           | Within the corporate network, the trust in SSO relies on directory sync or a unified IdP. | Outside the corporate network, trust in federated SSO relies on exchanged metadata and X.509 certificates with the help of protocols like SAML, OAuth or OIDC. |
| **Use Case**              | Access to company-wide apps like email, intranet, and SaaS apps.                          | Access to the B2B partner portal, cross-organizational cloud integration.                                                                                      |

Traditional SSO makes things easy and gives you full control if you work in one domain. Federated SSO lets you access any domain without any problems if you work with people from other companies or outside partners.

To maximize security and user convenience, make sure your pick fits with your user base and expansion ambitions. As per your organizational needs for expansion, miniOrange helps you achieve both traditional SSO and federated SSO within your company and beyond.

miniOrange is at the forefront of low-code deployment options for cloud and on-premise SSO and [federated identity management](https://www.miniorange.com/blog/federated-identity-management-fim/).

### How should you choose an SSO solution for your business?

There are two questions you need to answer to make your choice:

- Who are the people who utilize your product? Are your employees, partners, and customers going to use your system, and what kind of security do you need?
- What is your ecosystem? Is it single-tenant or multi-domain federation?

Choose the SSO model that fits your plan, and then let miniOrange set it up in hours instead of weeks.

Start using a safe and flexible SSO solution from miniOrange. Set up your [free demo](https://www.miniorange.com/products/single-sign-on-sso#request-demo) and get results right now.

## When to Use Federated SSO vs. SSO? {#When to Use Federated SSO vs. SSO?}

![When to Use Federated SSO vs. SSO](/blog/assets/2025/usecase-for-traditional-sso-vs-federated-sso.webp)

It's not simply a technical choice to choose between federated SSO and traditional SSO; it's also a strategic one. It depends on who your users are, where they come from, and how your systems work together.

**When to utilize traditional SSO:**

- Everyone who uses it is part of the same organization or domain.
- You want to be able to handle users and authentication from one place.
- Your apps are for internal use only (such as HR portals, intranet tools, and LMS).

**When to Use Federated SSO:**

- When you need to verify users from more than one organization or domain.
- You work with outside partners, vendors, or consumers who already have their identity providers.
- You want to make it easier for new users to get started and not have to deal with managing credentials for outside users.

**Quick Tip:**

Federated SSO is the best solution for a growing ecosystem that goes beyond your firewall, such as B2B portals, multi-campus colleges, or SaaS platforms.

Still not sure? Ask yourself, "Do I have control over all user identities, or do I have to rely on others to verify their users?"

## Getting Started with Identity Federation with miniOrange {#Getting Started with Identity Federation with miniOrange}

Organizations now require safe, scalable access that works with a wide range of partners, customers, and apps. [miniOrange](https://www.miniorange.com/) gives you a single experience that makes things safer and easier, whether you are using portals as a user or managing B2B interactions.

### How miniOrange Can Help with SSO vs. Federated SSO

- **Plug-and-Play Connectors:** You can connect to hundreds of apps right now without having to write any code.
- **Protocol Support:** Works with [SAML](https://www.miniorange.com/iam/solutions/saml-single-sign-on-sso), [OIDC](https://www.miniorange.com/iam/solutions/oauth-single-sign-on-sso), and [OAuth](https://www.miniorange.com/iam/solutions/oauth-single-sign-on-sso) to fit any identity stack.
- **Cross-Domain Federation:** Add new partners in minutes instead of weeks, and keep trust between domains.
- **Self-Service Onboarding:** Give users the power to set up their access, which can cut IT tickets by as much as 50%.

One of the leading finance companies decreased its IT password resets by [70%](https://www.miniorange.com/iam/customers/mfa-solution-for-abu-dhabi-pension#:~:text=ticket%20numbers%20by-,70%25,-.%20Users%20now%20have) and cut the time it took to onboard partners from 10 days to 2 days when it migrated its B2B portal to miniOrange Federated SSO. Teams are now able to focus on growth instead of setting up accounts by hand.

When creating your well-rounded security strategy that verifies your users everywhere with the same credentials, look into how [multi-factor authentication](https://www.miniorange.com/products/multi-factor-authentication-mfa) (MFA) works with various SSO approaches. It could make your security plan even better, which is something worth looking into for more advanced uses.

miniOrange makes it quick and easy to start your identity federation. Try [miniOrange SSO free for 30 days](https://www.miniorange.com/iam/free-sso-trial) or [schedule a call](https://www.miniorange.com/products/single-sign-on-sso#request-demo) with an engineer at miniOrange today.

## FAQs {#FAQs}

### What are the steps to migrate from SSO to federated identity management?

It is easy to migrate from SSO to federated identity management. First, look at how your present SSO is set up, figure out what federation requirements you have, and choose the right federation protocols and identity providers. Integrate and test your apps to ensure their compatibility with federated identity, then gradually transition users while closely monitoring the process to ensure a smooth transition.

### How can organizations maintain security and compliance when using FIM?

Use multi-factor authentication, [role-based access controls](https://www.miniorange.com/blog/what-is-role-based-access-control-rbac/), and full logging to make identity governance stronger. Regular audits and constant monitoring in accordance with industry regulations ensure that security and compliance remain current. Also, using automation and SIEM solutions makes it possible to quickly find and fix new threats.

### What are the most common mistakes companies make when choosing between SSO and FIM?

Companies often mix up the ease of use of SSO with the full identity governance of FIM and thus choose a simpler solution when stronger, federated controls are needed. They also don't think about the problems that come with integration, scalability, and changing regulatory requirements, which leads to security and compliance loopholes.

### What is the difference between SSO vs federation in identity management?

Single Sign-On (SSO) lets users log in once and access many apps in the same security domain. Federation takes that idea and applies it across organizational or security borders by creating trust between multiple identity providers and service providers. This is usually done with standards like SAML, OAuth, or OpenID Connect.

### How does federated identity management vs. SSO compare in securing user access?

Federated identity management lets a trusted outside identity provider handle authentication and authorization via federation protocols. This makes it easy for people from different organizations to access each other's resources. Traditional SSO stores all credentials in one identity store for a domain, making it easier to set up, but it only works with apps in the same trust boundary.

### What are the pros and cons of federated login vs. SSO?

**1\. Federated login**

- **Pros**: access across domains, one credential per user, and security policies that are the same for everyone
- **Cons:** more complicated to set up, relies on outside identity suppliers, and could cause latency.

**2\. SSO**

- **Pros:** faster to set up, quick authentication routines, and a single user store
- **Cons:** can't work with outside partners, and if there are several domains, credentials could get spread around.


SSO stands for "single sign-on" for apps in one identity domain; however, federated SSO signs in across multiple domains using SAML or OIDC. This blog evaluates federated SSO vs. SSO in depth.

Federated SSO vs. SSO: What’s the Difference, and Which One Do You Need?

## What is Federated Identity Management? {#What is Federated Identity Management?}

**Federated Identity Management (FIM)** is a framework that enables users to access multiple applications, systems, and resources across different organizations using a **single set of credentials**. It streamlines authentication by establishing trust between separate identity systems through a **federated identity and access management** model.

In a **federated identity management system**, each organization manages its own **identity provider (IdP)**, which communicates securely with other systems to verify user identities. This eliminates the need for duplicate accounts, reduces password fatigue, and enhances security.

A **federated identity management solution** is particularly useful for enabling [single sign-on (SSO)](https://www.miniorange.com/products/single-sign-on-sso) across external domains, making it easier for businesses to integrate third-party applications like Salesforce, and Zoom without compromising control or user experience.

## Federated Identity Management vs. Single Sign-On (SSO) {#Federated Identity Management vs. Single Sign-On (SSO)}

While **Federated Identity Management (FIM)** and **Single Sign-On (SSO)** are closely related, they serve distinct purposes in identity and access management.

- **SSO:** Simplifies authentication within the same organization.   
- **FIM:** Extends authentication across different organizations through a trusted framework.

[SSO Solution](https://www.miniorange.com/iam/solutions/sso-solution) is designed to provide **one-click access** to multiple applications and resources **within a single organization**. It simplifies authentication by enabling users to log in once and seamlessly access various internal systems without needing to re-enter credentials.

**FIM**, on the other hand, extends this convenience **across multiple organizations or domains**. It establishes **trust relationships** between different organizations, allowing users to access external resources and services without the need for additional logins.

**Example**

- [SSO Example:](https://www.miniorange.com/blog/single-sign-on-examples/) - An employee at for example say, an **ABC Corporation** logs into the company’s intranet. From there, they can access internal tools like **email**, **HR portals**, and **project management software** without logging in again for each service. All these systems are managed within the same organization, and SSO makes navigation seamless.
- FIM Example:- Now the same **ABC Corporation** partners with **XYZ Training Solutions** to provide employees access to external learning platforms. With **FIM**, employees can log in to their company portal and also access the training platform at **XYZ Solutions** without needing to create new accounts or sign in again. This works because the two organizations have established a **federated identity** relationship.

Both approaches reduce password fatigue and enhance user convenience, but **FIM** is particularly useful for businesses that collaborate with external partners or service providers.

## How Does Federated Identity Management (FIM) Work? {#How Does Federated Identity Management (FIM) Work?}

Federated Identity Management (FIM) operates through a **trust relationship** between an **Identity Provider (IdP)** and multiple **Service Providers (SPs)** to enable single sign-on (SSO) across systems and domains. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how it works:

1. A user attempts to access a **third-party application** or service (SP) that resides outside their organization’s domain.  
2. The user is redirected to the [Identity Provider (IdP)](https://www.miniorange.com/blog/what-is-an-identity-provider-idp/) for authentication if they are not already signed in.  
3. The IdP verifies the user's credentials (username, password, or other methods like [MFA](https://www.miniorange.com/products/multi-factor-authentication-mfa)) against its **identity management system** or directory.  
4.  Once verified, the IdP generates a **secure token** or **assertion** (e.g., SAML assertion or OpenID Connect token) that confirms the user’s identity and any associated attributes or permissions.  
5.  The IdP sends this **encrypted assertion** to the requested [Service Provider (SP)](https://www.miniorange.com/blog/idp-initiated-sp-initiated-login/), verifying the user's identity and permissions.  
6. The SP validates the assertion, establishes the session, and grants the user access to the application or service without requiring additional login credentials.  
7. Once authenticated, the user can access any other applications or resources in the **federated identity management system** without re-authenticating, thanks to the **SSO** mechanism.

## Benefits of Federated Identity {#Benefits of Federated Identity}

- Enhances security by reducing multiple login points and minimizing attack surfaces. It uses encrypted tokens and secure protocols like **SAML**, **OAuth**, and **OIDC** for authentication.
- Enables **Single Sign-On (SSO)**, allowing users to access multiple applications and domains with a single set of credentials, eliminating repetitive logins and improving user experience.
- Centralized [user provisioning and de-provisioning](https://www.miniorange.com/products/user-provisioning) simplify adding or removing user access from a single control point, ensuring quick onboarding and offboarding while maintaining security.
- Allows trusted domains to share resources and data securely without exposing passwords or sensitive information.
- Stores user identities in a centralized **Identity Provider (IdP)**, streamlining data management, audits, and compliance processes.
- Reduces IT costs by minimizing password resets, through [self-service password reset](https://www.miniorange.com/products/self-service-password-reset-sspr) eliminating the need for multiple identity systems, and avoiding custom SSO development expenses.

## Technologies Used in Federated Identity {#Technologies Used in Federated Identity}

Federated Identity Management (FIM) relies on standardized protocols to enable secure [authentication and authorization](https://www.miniorange.com/blog/authentication-authorization-difference/) across systems and organizations. These protocols ensure seamless communication between Identity Providers (IdPs) and Service Providers (SPs) while protecting user credentials. The key technologies include:

1. **Security Assertion Markup Language (SAML):** [SAML](https://www.miniorange.com/what-is-saml) is an XML-based protocol designed to securely exchange authentication and authorization data between an **Identity Provider (IdP)** and a **Service Provider (SP)**. It simplifies [password management](https://www.miniorange.com/pam/enterprise-password-management) by enabling **single sign-on (SSO)** across multiple domains. Once a user is authenticated by the IdP, SAML sends an encrypted assertion to the SP, verifying the user's identity and permissions. This eliminates the need for users to maintain separate credentials for each service.
2. **Open Authorization (OAuth):** [OAuth 2.0](https://www.miniorange.com/products/oauth2-server) /OAuth is an authorization framework that allows the secure sharing of user information between applications without exposing passwords. Instead of verifying identity, OAuth focuses on **authorization** by granting limited access to a resource (e.g., files, contacts) based on predefined permissions. It’s commonly used for enabling third-party services to access user data securely, such as allowing a calendar app to sync with an email provider.
3. **OpenID Connect (OIDC):** Built on top of OAuth 2.0, OpenID Connect [OIDC](https://www.miniorange.com/iam/integrations/openid-sso) adds an **identity layer** to provide **authentication** alongside OAuth’s authorization capabilities. It verifies a user’s identity and shares basic profile information through [JSON Web Tokens (JWT)](https://www.miniorange.com/blog/what-is-jwt-json-web-token-how-does-jwt-authentication-work/). OIDC is widely used for modern applications requiring **SSO** and is particularly suitable for mobile and web apps due to its lightweight and flexible structure.

## Conclusion {#Conclusion}

In today’s interconnected digital landscape, **Federated Identity Management (FIM)** has become a cornerstone for enabling secure, seamless, and scalable access across multiple systems and organizations. Through protocols like **SAML**, **OAuth**, and **OIDC**, FIM simplifies authentication, enhances security, and eliminates the inefficiencies of managing multiple credentials.

For businesses looking to implement a **federated identity management solution**, **miniOrange** offers a robust and flexible platform that supports **Single Sign-On (SSO)**, **Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)**, and advanced [access controls](https://www.miniorange.com/blog/what-is-access-control/). With its ability to integrate seamlessly with thousands of applications, miniOrange ensures effortless deployment and a user-friendly experience.

Whether you’re securing internal resources or collaborating across multiple domains, **a federated identity and access management solutions** deliver the reliability, compliance, and scalability needed to meet modern security challenges. Explore [miniOrange’s IAM solutions](https://www.miniorange.com/) today and take the first step toward transforming your organization’s identity management strategy.

Federated Identity Management (FIM) enables users to securely access multiple applications and systems with a single set of login credentials.

What is Federated Identity Management (FIM) and best practices?


### What is Shopify Federated Single Sign On? {#what-is-shopify-federated-single-sign-on}

[**Shopify Federated Single Sign-On**](https://plugins.miniorange.com/shopify-single-sign-on) (SSO) is a feature allowing users to access multiple Shopify stores with one set of login credentials. Its a convenient, secure way to manage multiple stores, eliminating the need for multiple usernames and passwords. Federated SSO is particularly beneficial for businesses operating in various locations or managing several brands under one Shopify organization.

### Benefits of Shopify Federated SSO {#benefits-of-shopify-federated-sso}

1. **Enhanced User Convenience**

With Federated SSO, users can switch between stores seamlessly, reducing login times and improving workflow efficiency.

2. **Increased Security**

Federated SSO simplifies access management, allowing administrators to set centralized login policies and reduce the risk of password-related security issues.

3. **Time-Saving for IT Teams**

By managing access centrally, IT departments save time on password resets and other access-related support issues, reducing overall management overhead.

4. **Cost-Effective Solution**

Centralized authentication reduces the administrative burden, potentially lowering costs associated with managing multiple login credentials.

### How to Set Up Shopify Federated SSO? {#how-to-set-up-shopify-federated-sso}

Setting up Shopify [Federated SSO](https://www.miniorange.com/blog/federated-sso-single-sign-on/) requires configuring an identity provider (IdP), such as Okta or miniOrange, to connect with Shopify's authentication system.

**Follow Steps for Federated SSO:**

**1. Choose an Identity Provider (IdP):** Providers like Okta or miniOrange are popular for enabling [SSO with Shopify](https://apps.shopify.com/single-sign-onsso).

**2. Configure SSO Settings in Shopify Admin:** In your Shopify admin panel, follow the steps to configure SSO settings for multi-store access.

**3. Set Access Policies:** Define policies for who has access to specific stores, allowing only authorized personnel to manage store-specific tasks.

**4. Test the SSO Integration:** After configuration, conduct test logins to ensure a seamless login experience across all stores.

### Understanding Shopify Software Security Assurance (SSA) {#shopify-software-security-assurance}
Shopify Software Security Assurance (SSA) is a security program designed to protect merchants and customers from cyber threats by ensuring the highest level of software security practices. SSA includes continuous vulnerability assessments, monitoring, and threat detection, all designed to safeguard Shopify stores.

### Key Components of Shopify SSA

1. **Continuous Monitoring and Threat Detection and Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)**

SSA actively monitors potential vulnerabilities, ensuring that stores are protected from threats as they arise. Protect your Shopify admin accounts by enabling [2FA](https://plugins.miniorange.com/shopify-2-factor-authentication).

2. **Regular Vulnerability Assessments and Regularly Update Apps**

Shopify performs regular vulnerability assessments to detect potential security gaps and deploy fixes before they become exploitable. Outdated apps may contain vulnerabilities; ensure all apps are regularly updated. 

3. **Secure Development Practices and Review Access Permissions**

SSA mandates secure coding practices, minimizing risks associated with third-party apps. Limit access to sensitive areas of your Shopify account only to essential personnel.

4. **Incident Response and Recovery and Conduct Routine Security Audits**

In case of a breach, SSA includes an incident response plan to quickly mitigate damage and restore normal operations. Regularly review and audit security settings to ensure ongoing compliance with SSA standards.

**How SSA Benefits Shopify Merchants**

- **Reduced Risk of Cyber Attacks:** By following strict security practices, SSA minimizes the chances of data breaches or malicious attacks.
- **Enhanced Customer Trust:** When customers know that your store follows Shopify’s security standards, it builds trust and can lead to better customer retention.
- **Compliance with Industry Standards:** SSA ensures that Shopify stores comply with industry regulations, especially for merchants dealing with sensitive customer information.

### How Shopify Federated SSO and SSA Work Together for Security and Effective Operations {#how-shopify-federated-sso-and-ssa-work}
Federated SSO and SSA together create a powerful security framework for Shopify merchants. While SSO simplifies the login experience for employees and administrators, SSA provides a robust security backbone, ensuring that all interactions remain safe and secure. 

By leveraging both features, Shopify merchants can achieve:
- **Improved User Experience** through easier access and navigation across multiple stores. 
- **Robust Security Infrastructure** that proactively prevents threats and ensures compliance.
- **Effective Management** for IT teams responsible for managing store access and security protocols.


### Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)? {#frequently-asked-questions}
**What is Shopify Federated SSO?**

Shopify Federated Single Sign-On (SSO) is a feature that allows users to log in once and access multiple Shopify stores, providing an elegant and secure login experience.

**How does SSA protect my Shopify store?**

Shopify Software Security Assurance (SSA) is a program that includes continuous monitoring, vulnerability assessments, and secure coding practices to protect Shopify stores from cyber threats.

**Can I use any identity provider for Shopify Federated SSO?**

Yes, Shopify is compatible with popular identity providers like Okta, miniOrange, and others.

**How often does Shopify conduct vulnerability assessments under SSA?**

Shopify conducts regular vulnerability assessments as part of its ongoing commitment to SSA, ensuring that new threats are detected and managed proactively.

**Is Federated SSO suitable for small Shopify stores?**

Federated SSO is most beneficial for businesses managing multiple stores, but any merchant can benefit from the centralized access control and security features.

### Conclusion {#conclusion}

Shopify Federated Single Sign-On and Shopify Software Security Assurance offer valuable solutions for businesses prioritizing security and user experience. Federated SSO provides a simplified, convenient access model, while SSA ensures rigorous security standards. Implementing both can help Shopify merchants manage their stores effectively, protect sensitive data, and create a seamless, secure experience for users across all their online platforms.

### Further Reading {#further-reading}
[Shopify Plus store Single sign on (sso)](https://plugins.miniorange.com/single-sign-on-for-shopify-plus)

[SSA ensures security](https://help.shopify.com/en/manual/privacy-and-security/account-security/account-security-best-practices)

[Other Security Solution for Shopify](https://plugins.miniorange.com/shopify)	

As online businesses continue to grow, the need for secure, user-friendly authentication methods has become crucial. For Shopify merchants managing multiple stores, enabling Federated Single Sign-On (SSO) offers a seamless login experience, while Shopify Software Security Assurance (SSA) program ensures robust security protocols. This article dives into how both SSO and SSA can improve your store security and user experience.

Shopify Federated Single Sign-On (SSO) and Software Security Assurance (SSA)


## What is Federated SSO? {#what-is-federated-sso}

**Federated Single Sign-on**, or Federated SSO (also known as Federated Identity Management), is a combination of two terms: Federated, which means across an organization, and SSO, which means Single Sign-On. As it implies, Federated SSO is a service that allows users to login into different applications or websites situated across different domains using a single set of login credentials.

This means that suppose a user in the organization who has to use different services like Zoom, Office 365, Google Workspaces, HR Portal, etc. can access all the services using a single set of login credentials rather than remembering and using a separate login credential for each, as is the case in the traditional scenario. i.e., with one Federated Identity, a user can access all configured services across multiple domains.

## Key Components: Identity Providers (IdPs) and Service Providers (SPs) {#key-components}

In Federated Single Sign-On (SSO), **Identity Providers (IdPs)** and **Service Providers (SPs)** are crucial components:

**1. Identity Providers (IdPs):** These are entities that authenticate users and provide identity information to service providers. Examples include Google, Microsoft, and miniOrange. IdPs manage user credentials and ensure secure authentication.

**2. Service Providers (SPs):** These are applications or services that rely on IdPs for user authentication. SPs trust the IdP to verify user identities and grant access to their resources. Examples include Salesforce, Slack, and Atlassian.

In a Federated SSO setup, the IdP authenticates the user and sends an assertion (usually via SAML or OAuth) to the SP, which then grants access to the user without requiring separate login credentials.

This setup enhances security by centralizing authentication and improves the user experience by reducing the need for multiple logins.

## Comparison of Federated SSO with Standard SSO {#federated-sso-vs-standard-sso}

A common misconception about Federated SSO is that SSO and federated SSO are one and the same thing. SSO is a service that allows users to login into multiple applications (on the same domain) using a single set of login credentials, while Federated SSO is a service that allows users to SSO in applications across multiple domains.

In other words, using SSO, users can login into multiple applications on the same domain using a single set of login credentials (like logging in to YouTube, Drive, and Sheets using Google/Gmail credentials), while using federated SSO, users can login into multiple applications on a different domain (like logging in to Zoom using Google/Gmail credentials).

Let us understand this with the help of an example:

John is an employee at company XYZ and wants to access all the applications he needs to complete his work in the company with a single login credential. As these applications are from different vendors, each is on a different domain, and hence traditional SSO implementation cannot fulfill his requirements. Federated SSO overcomes this limitation of SSO, allowing users to SSO into applications across different domains using a single set of login credentials.

## Federated SSO vs SSO

| Aspect | Federated SSO | SSO |
|--------|---------------|-----|
| Definition | Authentication across multiple, independent systems | Authentication for multiple applications within a single organization |
| Scope | Cross-domain, inter-organizational | Intra-organizational |
| Standards | SAML, OAuth, OpenID Connect | Proprietary or standard-based |
| Identity Provider | External, trusted third-party | Internal to the organization |
| User Directory | Distributed across organizations | Centralized within the organization |
| Scalability | Highly scalable across organizations | Limited to organizational boundaries |
| Complexity | Higher due to multiple trust relationships | Lower, simpler implementation |
| User Experience | Seamless access across different organizations | Seamless access within the organization |
| Security | Enhanced due to the distributed architecture | Centralized, potential single point of failure |
| Compliance | Facilitates cross-organizational compliance | Simplifies internal compliance. |

## When Should I Choose Federated SSO over SSO? {#when-should-i-choose-federated-sso-over-sso}

Choose Federated SSO over SSO when:

- **Multiple Domains or Organizations:** You need to provide seamless access across multiple domains or organizations. Federated SSO allows users to authenticate once and access resources across different entities.
- **Third-Party Applications:** You need to integrate with various third-party applications and services. Federated SSO supports interoperability between different identity providers and service providers.
- **Enhanced Security:** You require better security by keeping authentication within your own infrastructure. Federated SSO reduces risks by not relying on third-party authentication systems.

Choose SSO When:

- **Single Domain:** You only need to manage access within a single domain or organization.
- **Simpler Setup:** You prefer a simpler setup without the need for complex federated identity management.
- **Internal Applications:** You are primarily dealing with internal applications and services.

Federated SSO is ideal for complex, multi-domain environments with a need for enhanced security and third-party integrations, while SSO is suitable for simpler, single-domain scenarios.

## How Does Federated SSO Work? {#how-does-federated-sso-work}

Like SSO, Federated SSO supports all the authentication protocols, like SAML, OAuth, and OIDC, to authenticate users into applications. Here, trust is established between the identity provider (a system that stores and verifies user identity) and the service provider (the system the user wants to utilize) using metadata and certificate configurations. Once trust is established, users can login to service providers using their identity provider credentials.

A user can Single Sign-On into applications either by:

- **IDP initiated SSO:** Sign into the IDP application and then login to company applications.
- **SP initiated SSO:** Login to Company application and then signed into IDP application after auto-redirect.

In either case, once users use their login credentials and are authenticated by the IDP application, IDP sends an authentication assertion to SP. Based on the authentication assertion from the IDP, SP logs in the user and allows access to resources.

### Step-by-step Process of How Federated SSO Works {#step-by-step-process-of-how-federated-sso-works}

1\. User attempts to access a service provider (SP).

2\. SP redirects the user to the identity provider (IdP).

3\. User authenticates with the IdP

4\. IdP generates a security assertion (SAML or similar).

5\. IdP sends the assertion to the user's browser

6\. Browser forwards the assertion to the SP

7\. SP validates the assertion

8\. SP grants access to the user

9\. User can now access multiple SPs without re-authenticating.

![Federated SSO workflow](/blog/assets/2023/federated-sso-workflow.webp)

This process allows secure, seamless access across multiple services while maintaining centralized identity management. It reduces password fatigue and improves security by limiting authentication points.

## Common Protocols in Federated SSO {#common-protocols-in-federated-sso}

### 1\. SAML (Security Assertion Markup Language):
- XML-based standard
- Used for enterprise-level SSO
- Supports web-based authentication and authorization
- Ideal for large organizations with complex security requirements

### 2\. OAuth (Open Authorization):
- Token-based authorization framework
- Allows third-party applications to access resources without sharing credentials
- Widely used for API authentication
- Supports mobile and web applications

### 3\. OpenID Connect (OIDC):
- Built on top of OAuth 2.0
- Adds an identity layer for authentication.
- Provides user profile information
- Suitable for both enterprise and consumer-facing applications

Each protocol has its strengths and use cases. SAML is robust for enterprise environments, OAuth excels in API authorization, and OpenID Connect combines authentication with OAuth's authorization capabilities.

## Benefits of Federated SSO for Businesses {#benefits-of-federated-sso-for-business}

- **Increased Efficiency:** This saves a lot of time and increases efficiency.
- **Customer Experience:** For the third-party integrated apps, it makes it easy to login and hence improves the customer experience.
- **Secured:** Federated SSO, or Federated Identity Management, makes sure that you don’t have multiple credentials for different applications, making you vulnerable to threats.
- **Reduced Expenses:** A single sign-on solution reduces costs along with an increase in productivity.

## Who Can Benefit from Federated SSO? {#who-can-benefit-from-federated-sso}

Federated Single Sign-On (SSO) benefits a wide range of entities, including:

1\. **Large enterprises:** Optimize access management across multiple systems and applications.

2\. **Educational institutions:** Simplify access for students and faculty to various academic resources.

3\. **Healthcare organizations:** Ensure secure and efficient access to patient data and medical systems.

4\. **Government agencies:** Manage access across departments while maintaining strict security protocols.

5\. **Multi-national corporations:** Enable seamless access for employees across different geographic locations.

6\. **Cloud service providers:** Offer enhanced security and convenience to their customers.

7\. **Small to medium businesses:** Improve productivity and reduce IT overhead.

8\. **Non-profit organizations:** Refine volunteer and donor management systems.

9\. **B2B companies:** Facilitate secure partner access to shared resources.

10\. **Managed service providers:** Offer value-added identity management services to clients.

Federated SSO can significantly improve security, user experience, and operational efficiency for these entities by centralizing authentication and reducing password-related risks.

## Use Cases for Federated SSO {#use-cases-for-federated-sso}

### 1\. Enterprise Environments:
Federated SSO in enterprise settings streamlines access to multiple cloud applications, enhancing security by centralizing authentication processes. This approach simplifies user management across subsidiaries or partners, creating a more efficient and secure digital ecosystem for large organizations.


### 2\. Finance Sector: 
Federated SSO in the finance sector enhances security and user experience by centralizing authentication for banking institutions, investment firms, insurance companies, financial regulatory bodies, and fintech companies. It streamlines access to various financial services and applications, ensuring compliance with regulations and protecting sensitive data. This approach improves operational efficiency and facilitates secure information sharing and collaboration across the industry.

### 3\. Academic Institutions:
In academia, federated SSO enables seamless access to learning management systems and research databases while facilitating collaboration between universities and research institutions. It also provides a unified system for managing student and faculty access across various campus services, improving both security and user experience.

### 4\. Healthcare Sector: 
For healthcare providers, federated SSO secures access to patient records across multiple facilities, ensuring compliance with regulations like HIPAA. This system is particularly crucial for enabling swift authentication for medical staff in emergency situations, potentially saving critical time in patient care.

### 5\. Government Agencies:
Government implementations of federated SSO facilitate secure information sharing between departments and manage citizen access to various online government services. This approach enhances security for classified information systems, balancing accessibility with stringent security requirements.

### 6\. B2B Partnerships:
In B2B contexts, federated SSO enables secure access to shared resources for partner organizations and simplifies user provisioning and deprovisioning in collaborative projects. This allows businesses to maintain separate identity management systems while still providing seamless authentication for cross-organizational initiatives.

## Federated SSO Implementation {#federated-sso-implemented}

**Key Considerations for Implementing Federated SSO**

Implementing Federated Single Sign-On (SSO) involves several key considerations:

1\. **Identity Providers (IdPs):** Choose reliable IdPs that support industry standards like SAML, OAuth, and OpenID Connect.

2\. **Security Protocols:** Ensure robust encryption and secure token handling to protect user credentials and data.

3\. **User Experience:** Aim for a seamless login experience across different applications and platforms.

4\. **Compliance:** Adhere to regulatory requirements such as GDPR, HIPAA, and other relevant standards.

5\. **Scalability:** Ensure the solution can handle growth in users and applications without performance degradation.

6\. **Interoperability:** Verify compatibility with existing systems and applications.

7\. **Monitoring and Auditing:** Implement continuous monitoring and logging to detect and respond to security incidents.

8\. **User Provisioning:** Automate user provisioning and de-provisioning to maintain accurate access controls.

9\. **Support and Maintenance:** Plan for ongoing support and regular updates to address vulnerabilities and improve functionality.

## Federated SSO Implementation Challenges and Best Practices {#federated-sso-implementation-challenges-and-best-practices}

Implementing Federated Single Sign-On (SSO) can streamline access management, but it comes with its own set of challenges. Here are some common challenges and their solutions:

### 1. **Interoperability Issues**

- **Challenge:** Different systems and applications may use varying protocols and standards, leading to compatibility issues.
- **Solution:** Adopt widely accepted standards like SAML, OAuth, and OpenID Connect. Ensure all systems support these protocols for seamless integration.

### 2. **Security Concerns**
- **Challenge:** Federated SSO can become a single point of failure, making it a prime target for attacks.
- **Solution:** Implement robust security measures such as Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), regular security audits, and continuous monitoring to detect and mitigate threats.

### 3. **User Experience**
- **Challenge:** Users may face difficulties during the transition to a new SSO system, leading to frustration and decreased productivity.
- **Solution:** Provide comprehensive user training and support. Ensure the SSO system is user-friendly and offers a smooth login experience.

### 4. **Scalability**
- **Challenge:** As organizations grow, the SSO system must scale to accommodate more users and applications.
- **Solution:** Choose an SSO solution that is scalable and can handle increased load without compromising performance. Regularly review and update the system to meet growing demands.

### 5. **Compliance and Regulatory Requirements**
- **Challenge:** Ensuring the SSO system complies with various regulatory standards can be complex.
- **Solution:** Stay updated with relevant regulations and ensure the SSO solution adheres to compliance requirements. Conduct regular compliance audits and maintain detailed documentation.

By addressing these challenges with the right strategies, organizations can successfully implement Federated SSO and enhance their identity security framework.

## Federated SSO Future Trends on the Rise {#federated-sso-future-trends}

- **Increased Adoption of Zero Trust Architecture:** Federated SSO will play a crucial role in implementing zero trust principles, ensuring secure access across diverse environments.
- **Enhanced Interoperability:** Expect more seamless integration between different identity providers (IdPs) and service providers, leveraging standards like SAML, OAuth, and OpenID Connect.
- **AI and Machine Learning Integration:** These technologies will enhance threat detection and response, making federated SSO more secure and adaptive.
- **Decentralized Identity:** Blockchain and decentralized identity solutions will gain traction, providing users with more control over their digital identities.
- **User Experience Focus:** Simplifying the user experience while maintaining robust security will be a priority, reducing friction in authentication processes.
- **Regulatory Compliance:** As data privacy regulations evolve, federated SSO solutions will need to ensure compliance with global standards.

These trends indicate a promising future for federated SSO, balancing security, convenience, and compliance.

Federated Single Sign-On (SSO) or Federated Identity management means integration with an application across an organization.

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