
## SCIM and SAML: Streamline Identity Management & SSO {#seamless-sso-and-identity-management}

In 2024, 90% of organizations faced [issues with identity management](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/new-study-reveals-90-of-organizations-experienced-an-identity-related-incident-in-the-last-year-84-reported-a-direct-business-impact-302156769.html). From onboarding new hires to handling role changes or offboarding employees, these user management processes are often inconsistent, error-prone, and leave room for security vulnerabilities.

This is where SAML single sign on (SSO) and SCIM work together as a complete identity solution. SAML handles secure single sign-on authentication, **while SCIM automates the entire user provisioning**. Thus, making them essential for modern enterprises managing distributed workforces and complex application ecosystems.

Simplify identity and access management with the combined power of SAML SSO and SCIM provisioning. This blog explores the key benefits, real-world use cases, and how miniOrange delivers a unified identity solution for modern enterprises.

### Understanding SAML: How Does SAML Work in Atlassian? {#understanding-saml}

Managing access to multiple tools like Jira, Confluence, and Bitbucket can quickly get overwhelming. Especially when your team is growing, working remotely, or handling multiple systems. That’s where SAML Single Sign-On (SSO) comes into play.

Instead of users managing separate Atlassian passwords, SAML SSO lets them log in with their existing work credentials, through systems your company already uses, like Azure AD, Okta, or Google Workspace.

This means:
* One login for everything
* Fewer password resets
* Stronger security with centralized control

[SAML single sign on authentication](https://www.miniorange.com/atlassian/atlassian-saml-single-sign-on-sso) makes it easier to manage user accounts of their teams as well. User access is managed directly from your identity provider (IdP). Thus, there’s less manual work, fewer mistakes, and better compliance, whether it be on Atlassian Cloud or Data Center.

### SCIM: Automating User Provisioning and Deprovisioning {#automating-user-provisioning-and-deprovisioning}

When someone joins your company, how many systems do they need to access project tickets? Jira? Confluence? Bitbucket? And when they leave, does the admin manually remove their access from each platform?

That’s where SCIM comes in.

[SCIM](https://www.miniorange.com/atlassian/atlassian-user-and-group-sync) (short for System for Cross-Domain Identity Management) automates the user and group management process, right from adding new employees to removing access when they leave. SCIM syncs everything from your identity provider (like Azure AD or Okta) to your tools in real-time, without the need of manually updating these changes. 

Here’s what that means for you:

* New employees get instant access to the right tools based on their role. 
* When someone changes departments, their access updates automatically.
* When offboarding, their accounts are removed instantly, reducing security risks. 
* No more spreadsheet tracking, manual mistakes, or compliance worries

### A Comprehensive Approach to Combining SAML And SCIM {#saml-and-scim}

SAML takes care of how users log in — securely, with just one set of credentials.
On the other hand, SCIM takes care of who gets access to what — automatically adding, updating, or removing users based on your identity provider in real-time.

Used together, they solve a lot of everyday issues for growing teams:

1. **Onboarding and Offboarding**

Let’s say a new hire, Sarah, joins your team. With SCIM in place, her user account is automatically created in Jira, Confluence, and Bitbucket, without any manual setup. When she signs in, SAML SSO handles secure, seamless authentication.

Now imagine another employee John leaves the company. With SCIM, his access is revoked across all tools instantly, without the need of manual updation. 

2. **Keeping User Attributes in Sync**

When Sarah gets promoted and moves to a new department, her group memberships and access levels need to reflect that change. SCIM updates everything the moment her profile is updated in the Identity Provider.

Thus, there is no mismatch in roles or out-of-date permissions. Just clean, accurate user data across your entire toolset.

3. **Real-Time Deactivation for Tighter Security**

Now consider an employee David is terminated. Without SCIM, the admin would need to update their access. With SCIM, that risk disappears. His access is revoked immediately, as soon as he’s removed from your IdP.

That kind of proactive control dramatically reduces security risks.

4. **Scalable Identity Management**

As teams scale, so do the issues with managing user access. SAML ensures a single, secure way to authenticate users. SCIM automates the rest: provisioning, deprovisioning, and updating roles at scale. Whether you're adding 5 users or 500, your identity management stays efficient, secure, and low-maintenance.

### Need for SCIM and SAML Integration {#scim-saml-integration}

There are several use cases for which SCIM needs to be combined with SAML-based single sign-on for a better, comprehensive approach: 

1. **Managing Temporary Project-Based Users**

When contractors or freelancers are brought on for short-term projects in Jira or Confluence:

* SCIM automatically provisions access only to the relevant Jira projects or Confluence spaces based on their role.
* [Jira SAML SSO](https://www.miniorange.com/atlassian/saml-sso-documentation) ensures they can log in securely without needing separate credentials.
* When the project ends, SCIM automatically deactivates their access, removing the risk of lingering permissions.

2. **Remote Work and BYOD Scenarios**

As teams access Atlassian tools from different locations and devices:

* Confluence SAML SSO enables secure access to Jira Cloud or Confluence without needing local credentials.
* SCIM ensures that changes to their role, team, or permissions are reflected in real time, without manual updation (unlike JIT).

3. **Automated Role-Based Access in Jira Projects**

Different teams require access to different Jira boards and Bitbucket repositories:

* SCIM ensures users are assigned the right roles and project permissions based on their job title or department.
* SAML enforces authentication and group-based access controls.

4. **Regulatory Compliance for Teams Using Jira/Confluence**

In regulated industries, companies using Atlassian tools must meet strict compliance standards:

* SCIM provides a clear audit trail for account creation, modification, and removal across tools.
* SAML logs every login attempt, helping security teams monitor and report on access with confidence.

5. **SaaS User Provisioning Management Across Atlassian Tools**

For organizations using Atlassian Cloud, managing hundreds of users can be a challenge:

* SCIM ensures that new hires are auto-provisioned across Jira, Confluence, and Bitbucket with accurate permissions.
* When someone leaves, SCIM immediately removes their access without requiring logins.
* SAML continues to provide a secure, unified login process across all apps.

### miniOrange's SAML and SCIM Bundle {#saml-and-scim-bundle}

miniOrange offers a comprehensive solution that integrates SAML Single Sign-On (SSO) and SCIM provisioning, addressing the challenges and use cases discussed earlier. This bundled offering streamlines identity management and enhances the overall user experience across various applications and services.

With [miniOrange's SAML and SCIM integration](https://marketplace.atlassian.com/apps/1215430/single-sign-on-saml-sso-for-jira-sso-saml-user-sync-scim?hosting=datacenter&tab=overview), organizations can benefit from the following features:

* **Centralized Identity Management:** Manage user identities and access rights from a single, centralized location, reducing administrative overhead and ensuring consistent policy enforcement.
* **Automated Provisioning and Deprovisioning:** Seamlessly onboard and offboard users across multiple applications and services through SCIM-based provisioning, eliminating manual intervention and reducing the risk of errors.
* **Real-time User Attribute Synchronization:** Keep user attributes, such as roles, permissions, and group memberships, synchronized across all connected applications, ensuring accurate and up-to-date access controls.
* **Scalability:** Easily scale identity management operations as your organization grows, without compromising efficiency or security.
* **Simplified Integration:** miniOrange's solution supports a wide range of popular applications and services, making it easy to integrate SAML SSO plugin and SCIM into your existing infrastructure.
* **Comprehensive Reporting and Auditing:** Gain insights into user activities, access patterns, and potential security threats through detailed reporting and auditing capabilities.


By combining SAML SSO and [SCIM provisioning](https://www.miniorange.com/atlassian/scim-and-rest-api-user-provisioning-documentation), miniOrange's solution addresses the key use cases discussed earlier, including effortless onboarding and offboarding, streamlined user attribute management, enhanced security through real-time access management, and scalable identity management for growing organizations.


### Wrapping Up {#wrapping-up}

Integrating SCIM with SAML SSO streamlines identity management processes, enhances security, and improves the overall user experience. By combining the strengths of SAML for authentication and SCIM for provisioning, organizations can achieve effortless onboarding and offboarding, seamless user attribute management, real-time access control, and scalable identity management solutions.

Choosing the right solution that combines SAML and SCIM capabilities is crucial for organizations seeking to optimize their identity management processes. Solutions like [miniOrange's SAML and SCIM bundle](https://marketplace.atlassian.com/apps/1215430/single-sign-on-saml-sso-for-jira-sso-saml-user-sync-scim?hosting=datacenter&tab=overview) offer a comprehensive and user-friendly approach, enabling organizations to leverage the full potential  of this powerful integration across various use cases and applications.











In the ever-evolving landscape of digital identity, achieving simplicity and efficiency is paramount. With the latest upgrade to the miniOrange SAML plugins, we're excited to announce the seamless integration of SCIM.

Seamless SSO and Identity Management: Unleashing the Power of SAML and SCIM Integration in miniOrange Plugin


### 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)


Single sign-on authentication (SSO authentication) has revolutionized the digital landscape by replacing the traditional login process. Gone are the days of asking users to remember passwords of multiple applications; SSO authentication simplifies the login experience. Additionally, it also enhances security and eliminates the frustration associated with password-based logins. 

Whether you run websites, develop apps, or run a business, user authentication is essential for both logistical and security reasons. We at miniOrange, understand the limitations of passwords and have come up with an ultra-secure  SSO authentication that can streamline user access, bolster security, and offer a better digital experience.

### What is the Single Sign-On (SSO) authentication method? {# What is the Single Sign-On (SSO) authentication method?}

SSO authentication revolutionizes the login experience by allowing users to access multiple applications, services, and accounts with a single login. A notable example is Salesforce's suite of applications, where logging into one grants access to all. This eliminates the hassle of repeatedly entering passwords when switching between applications like Salesforce Sales Cloud and Salesforce Service Cloud.  

The advantages of SSO authentication are many such as, users getting a hassle-free login experience while accessing multiple applications, administrators enjoying improved internal security through centralized monitoring of user accounts, and dealing with fewer password management-related responsibilities. SSO authentication also fosters collaboration and efficiency, such as the ease of sharing documents with other user accounts in the same ecosystem.


### How does SSO authentication work? {# How does SSO authentication work?}

To initiate the access process for a desired application or website, the user follows these steps within the SSO framework:

1. The user attempts to access a specific application or website provided by the Service Provider.
2. The application or website (Service Provider) directs the SSO request to the Identity Provider (IDP) for authentication.
3. The user provides their credentials associated with the Identity Provider to sign in.
4. Upon successful authentication by the IDP, a Single Sign-On response is sent back to the Service Provider.
5. With the received SSO response, the user is granted access to log in and securely utilize the desired resource or application.
6. Within the Service Provider's ecosystem, the user gains the ability to seamlessly access other pre-configured applications or websites through the SSO functionality.

### Is SSO authentication secure? {# Is SSO authentication secure?}

SSO systems are secure when implemented properly and used alongside other cybersecurity measures. They enhance internet security by reducing the reliance on weak passwords and centralizing systems for easier management and protection. However, centralization also presents some risks, as a breach in the central system could grant unauthorized access to all connected apps and tools.

And hence to overcome this issue and for enhance security, adding a two-factor login, such as miniOrange’s 2FA solution, provides an added layer of identity verification without significantly impacting the user experience. Two-factor login is becoming increasingly common, and users generally don't mind the added step for the benefits of prolonged secure access.

### Advantages of Single Sign-On (SSO) Authentication {# Advantages of Single Sign-On (SSO) Authentication}

**A. Enhanced user experience and convenience:**

- Simplifies access to multiple applications and services through a single login.
- Eliminates the need to remember and manage multiple passwords.
- Streamlines user experience, thus saving time and effort.

**B. Improved security and reduced password fatigue:**

- Reduces reliance on weak or reused passwords.
- Enables stronger password policies 
- Minimizes the risk of unauthorized access and data breaches.

**C. Centralized user management and access control:**

- Simplifies administration and maintenance of user accounts.
- Allows for easy provisioning and deprovisioning of user access.
- Enhances control over user access privileges and security policies.


### Single Sign On Authentication methods {# Single Sign On Authentication methods}

Let us have a look at some of the advanced and indispensable Single Sign-on authentication methods for your organization. 

**1. SAML (Security Assertion Markup Language):**  
SAML is a widely adopted standard for implementing Single Sign-On (SSO) authentication, offering several advantages. With SAML-based SSO, users are relieved from manually entering credentials and the burden of remembering and changing passwords. Weak passwords become less of a concern as SAML leverages existing identity information. It seamlessly integrates with existing identity systems like Active Directory, enabling a smoother authentication process. SAML-based SSO provides a secure and convenient method for accessing applications, leveraging existing identity information for an improved user experience and enhanced security.

**2. API Authentication:**  
In today's digital landscape, APIs have gained immense popularity due to their ability to manage and process vast amounts of data efficiently. APIs have introduced a new realm of possibilities in the realm of online security. Among the numerous API authentication methods available, some of the most widely used are HTTP Basic Auth, API keys, and OAuth. 

**3. OAuth:**  
OAuth, a widely used API authentication method, provides a comprehensive solution for both authentication and authorization processes. By defining the scope, OAuth enables the API to authenticate and gain access to the requested system or resource.

**4. OpenID Connect:**  
Its an authentication method that builds upon the OAuth 2.0 framework. It serves as an identity layer and enables applications or websites to authenticate its users and verify their identity. This is done by leveraging an authorization server, which performs the authentication process. Overall, OpenID Connect enables applications to verify the identity of users by relying on an authorization server's authentication.

**5. Smartcard Based:**  
Smartcard SSO authentication uses smartcards as secure authentication token. Each user has a smart card with a digital certificate and private key. Users insert the smartcard into a reader, authenticate with a PIN or biometric, and gain access to authorized resources without further authentication. It enables users to access multiple resources, simplifying the authentication process and enhancing user convenience. This method offers strong security, eliminates the need for multiple passwords, and simplifies the authentication process. 


### Conclusion {# Conclusion}

In the rapidly evolving technology landscape, prioritizing security is essential to differentiate yourself from competitors and deliver a seamless experience to end-users.

Compromising security exposes your company to various risks, including phishing attacks and data breaches. To mitigate such risks, it's crucial to select an authentication system that aligns with your budget and ensures a seamless user experience. As a trusted provider of Identity and Access Management (IAM) solutions, miniOrange can help you identify the most dependable authentication solution for your organizational needs. We also provide solutions for WordPress to perform [WordPress SAML SSO](https://plugins.miniorange.com/wordpress-single-sign-on-sso) or [OAuth SSO](https://plugins.miniorange.com/wordpress-sso) using SAML and OAuth protocols. If you have any inquiries regarding the SSO authentication process, feel free to reach out to us at idpsupport@xecurify.com.

### FAQs {# FAQs}  

**1. What is the difference between SSO and SSO authentication?**  
In Single Sign-On, users can access multiple systems or applications using a single set of login credentials. It eliminates the need for users to remember and manage separate usernames and passwords for each system. It enables users to authenticate once and give access to various systems seamlessly.  

Whereas SSO authentication emphasizes the authentication aspect of SSO, where user's identity is verified using a single set of credentials across multiple systems. SSO authentication ensures that the user's login information is securely validated and grants them access to the authorized systems.  

In summary, SSO is the overarching concept of using a single login across multiple systems, while SSO authentication focuses on the authentication mechanism that allows for this seamless access.

**2. What does SSO authentication stand for?**  
SSO authentication stands for Single Sign-On authentication, which is a method that allows users to log in once with a single set of credentials to access multiple applications or services.  

**3. What is the difference between single sign-on and MFA?**  
The difference between single sign-on (SSO) and multi-factor authentication (MFA) is that SSO is a method where users can access multiple applications with a single set of login credentials, while MFA is an additional security layer that requires users to provide multiple forms of authentication, such as a password and a verification code.

Single Sign-On (SSO) authentication enables users to securely log in with a single ID across multiple independent software systems.

What is Single Sign On Authentication | How does it work?


In today's digital landscape, web applications have become an integral part of our personal and professional lives. However, with the increasing number of applications we use every day, managing multiple login credentials has become a challenging task. This is where [Single Sign-On (SSO)](https://www.miniorange.com/products/single-sign-on-sso) **for web applications** comes to the rescue.
**Single Sign-On (SSO) for web applications** is a robust authentication mechanism that enables users to access multiple web applications using a single set of login credentials. Users no longer need to remember and enter separate usernames and passwords for every application they use, providing a seamless and streamlined user experience. **SSO in web applications** simplifies the authentication process while enhancing security and productivity.



### How does Single Sign On (SSO) work? {# How does Single Sign On (SSO) work?}

SSO works based upon an established relationship set up between an application, which is the service provider, and an [identity provider](https://www.miniorange.com/iam/), such as [miniOrange](https://www.miniorange.com/). The mechanism works based on a certificate exchange between an identity provider and the service provider. 
In the context of Single Sign-On (SSO), a certificate is utilized to sign identity information transmitted from the identity provider to the service provider. This process ensures that the service provider can verify the authenticity and trustworthiness of the received data. In SSO, this identity data is typically encapsulated in tokens, which contain relevant user information such as their email address or username. These tokens serve as identifiers and provide essential details about the user during the authentication process.  

The user initiates access to their desired application or website, which belongs to the Service Provider.

- The application or website (Service Provider) redirects the authentication request to the Identity Provider (IDP).
- The user attempts to sign in using their Identity Provider credentials.
- Once the IDP authentication is successful, the Identity Provider sends a Single Sign-On response back to the Service Provider.
- Upon receiving the SSO response, the user is granted access to log in and use the desired resource or application.
- The user can access other pre-configured apps or websites within the Service Provider's network, thanks to Single Sign-On (SSO) functionality.  


**Let us now take a high-level overview of how the Web Application SSO process works:**

- The user signs in to the web application.
- The SSO tool either confirms the user's identity through verification with the Identity Provider (IDP) or initiates the verification process.
- If the SSO tool has already verified the user, they are automatically logged into the application.
- If the user has not yet been verified by the SSO tool, they are prompted to initiate the verification process.


### Why Does Your Organization need Web Application SSO? {# Why Does Your Organization need Web Application SSO?}

Web application Single Sign-On (SSO) enables users to not just access multiple web applications using a single set of login credentials, but also offers several organizational benefits, making it a valuable solution to consider. Let us see why your business needs Web SSO:

**1. Boosts the productivity of IT employees:**

Implementing Web SSO reduces the burden on IT employees by eliminating the need to manage multiple authentication systems and handle password-related issues. This allows IT teams to focus on more crucial tasks, thus improving their overall productivity and efficiency.

**2. Improved Security Measures:**

By implementing Web Application SSO, organizations can strengthen their security measures through enhanced authentication protocols, such as multi-factor authentication (MFA). This approach enables more effective enforcement of access controls, significantly reducing the risks associated with unauthorized access and bolstering overall security levels.  

**3. Enhancing Web App Security with Risk-Based Authentication (RBA):**

By combining miniOrange's Risk-Based Authentication (RBA) with Web Application SSO, you can enhance the security of your web applications. RBA uses contextual data to assess the risk level of authentication requests. With RBA, organizations can now evaluate the potential risk based on factors like user location, device, IP, and time. A tailored approach enhances protection for web applications.


### Use cases for SSO in Web Apps {# Usecases for SSO in Web Apps}
Let us now take a look at the use cases of web applications:

**1. Small to medium businesses organization that rely on multiple web applications:**
Small to medium organizations utilize a range of web applications for different purposes, such as project management, communication, and document collaboration. Implementing SSO simplifies the login process for employees, allowing them to access these applications with a single set of credentials. .

**2. Businesses with an existing Active Directory (AD) infrastructure:**
Many organizations already have an Active Directory system in place, this serves as a central repository for user accounts and authentication. Integrating SSO with Active Directory can simplify access to web applications by leveraging existing user credentials, reducing the need for separate logins and password management.

**3. Organizations implementing Identity and Access Management (IAM) strategy:**
Organizations implementing Identity and Access Management (IAM) strategies aim to enhance security, streamline user access and improve overall governance. Effective access management for admins is a key component of IAM. It enables administrators to control user permissions, assign roles and manage access to various resources and applications. With this organizations can ensure proper authorization, minimize security risks, and maintain granular control over user accounts and data.

**4. Internal communication and collaboration tools:**
There are various internal communication and collaboration tools in an organization to facilitate seamless teamwork and document sharing among employees. By implementing SSO for These applications and tools, organizations can streamline access, improve user experience, and eliminate the hassle of managing multiple user credentials. Employees can navigate between different applications within the platform effortlessly, enhancing productivity and efficiency.

### miniOrange’s modern-day Web SSO Solutions {# miniOrange’s modern-day Web SSO Solutions}

**1. Extensive SSO solution:** Our solution supports standard protocols like SAML, JWT, OAuth, or OpenID Connect. For in-house and legacy apps who do not support these protocols, we provide them with connectors and enable SSO for any application. 

**2. Leverage existing identity sources:** Allow SSO login using Active Directory, ADFS, LDAP, HR Systems, Microsoft 365, G Suite, or Zoho credentials.

**3. Tailor-made SSO solution:** Customizable registration and login page with multi-language support for personalized self-service portals.

**4. Improvised reporting:** Gain insights into application usage and user access activities from a centralized IT admin console.

**5. Simplified user management:** Add or remove multiple users, and grant or revoke their application access with a single click in the SSO admin portal.

**6. Multiple deployment options:** Choose the deployment mode that suits your needs - Cloud, On-Premise, or Hybrid.<br><br>

Implementing Single Sign-On (SSO) for web applications offers a range of benefits, including streamlined access, enhanced security, increased productivity, and simplified user management. miniOrange's SSO solution provides extensive compatibility, leverages existing identity sources, offers customization options, provides improved reporting, simplifies user management, and offers flexible deployment options. With miniOrange, organizations can effectively streamline access and optimize authentication processes for their web applications.



Learn how to enable seamless access to your web applications and services by implementing Single Sign-On (SSO), which empowers users to effortlessly navigate multiple apps and websites with a single set of credentials.

Streamlining Access: Exploring the Power of Single Sign-On for Web Applications


### OAuth {#oauth}

Open Authentication, or OAuth, is an authentication framework that is incredibly versatile and robust. That’s one of the many reasons why it’s the preferred choice for some of the Big Tech companies of the world, including Amazon, Facebook (Meta), Google, Microsoft, as well as Twitter. The complete list of reasons why OAuth is so popular, and why you should choose it, is inexhaustive. But, we can point to a few good reasons why it has become the go-to for so many developers who want to implement Single Sign-On onto their websites, making it easy for all users to log into multiple applications and access services with a single click.
Enable [Single Sign-On (SSO)](https://www.miniorange.com/products/single-sign-on-sso) functionality on your WordPress website using the [WordPress SSO plugin](https://wordpress.org/plugins/miniorange-login-with-eve-online-google-facebook/). By integrating [WordPress SSO](https://plugins.miniorange.com/wordpress-sso), users gain the ability to access your website with a single set of login credentials, leveraging providers supporting OAuth/OpenID protocols. This streamlined approach simplifies the login process for users, enhancing convenience and security.

### OIDC:  {#oidc}

OpenID Connect, or OIDC, is not comparable one-to-one with OAuth. As mentioned before, it is a profile that is designed to function on top of the authorization framework that is OAuth. What’s unique about OIDC is that it features an id_token that is specific to federated authentication.
OIDC uses JSON Web Token (JWT) and HTTP flows and avoids sharing sensitive user credentials with services. This is why OIDC is a great example of an authentication method that users can rely on. It has consent built into its design. OpenID Connect also has its own types of flows such as implicit flow, authorization code flow, and hybrid flow, among others. 
OIDC is gaining popularity because it is newer, simple to implement, and easily accessible via APIs. It also seems to be the case that OIDC will be supported long into the future, which is why developers find it preferable to work with, compared to some of its alternatives.

### Benefits of OAuth & OpenID Connect (OIDC): {#benefits}

While there are many benefits to using OAuth and OIDC, we’ve listed only some of the major ones below:

![benefits of OAuth and OpenID](/blog/assets/2023/oauth-openid-benefits.webp)

 1.) **Customizability:** Perhaps the biggest positive for OAuth and OIDC is how it is immensely customizable. It provides a standard in SSO for the level of customization that it can offer and what one can come to expect. You can choose how you want the authentication/authorization protocol works for your website or application. This is customizable at three different points of the system.

 2.) **OAuth uses SSL:** You can even add profiles on top of OAuth/OIDC to increase the level of security. Even if you don’t, you need not worry. OAuth uses Secure Sockets Layer, or SSL, which applies to OpenID Connect as well. This makes sure that the data between the web server and web browser remains private. It does this by using cryptography industry protocols and encrypting the data to keep it safe.

 3.) **Supports API Integration:** Furthermore, it supports easy API integration with a ton of different applications and providers. This is because of its flexibility and options to customize. And if you need to protect your APIs or create an API Gateway, OAuth and OIDC both have it covered. Using the access and ID tokens for OAuth and OpenID Connect, one can also request different data or services via APIs. You may automate the provisioning of identities from Active Directory to Azure AD, Workday to Azure AD, and Azure AD to cloud applications such as Dropbox, Salesforce, ServiceNow, etc. using Microsoft’s Graph API.

 4.) **Server to Server Calls during SSO data exchange:** Unlike some traditional SSO protocols, OAuth & OpenID Connect communicate with the client on the backchannel. That is, the exchange of authorization tokens and user data happens from server to server and not via a browser. This means that unintended third parties can neither catch these server-to-server calls nor intercept the user data on the browser. This maintains data integrity and data confidentiality.

 5.) **OAuth works with SSO:** OAuth provides you with all the necessary tools and features so that it works seamlessly with Single Sign-On. Owing to its customizability, you can set custom rules and parameters on how you want it to work.

### Grant types supported by OAuth: {#grant-types}

Grant types are basically the method by which an authorization server grants you access to the necessary services. Regardless of whether you understand the technical terms listed below, you can still implement them onto your website with ease.

Our technical team will guide you through the process and answer any questions you might have. We will also recommend the best option for your particular use case.

 1.) **Authorization Grant:** This is the most widely used grant supported by OAuth, and also the one we recommend the most. The authorization server grants an authorization code, which can be exchanged for an access token.

 2.) **PKCE Grant:** This is a grant type that is added on top of the authorization code grant. It provides improved security to the already reliable authorization grant and is useful for native or single-page applications. PKCE, or Proof Key with Code Exchange, implements a code verifier that verifies the authorization code sent by the server to prevent malicious misuse and access.

 3.) **Implicit Grant:** The implicit grant is similar to the authorization grant, except for two differences. It is primarily intended for use with user-agent-based clients that cannot keep the client anonymous since application code and storage are easily accessible. Additionally, the authorization server directly returns an access token.

 4.) **Password Grant:** As the name suggests, a user is required to enter a username and password to get an access token in return. This method can only be used by applications that have been created by the service itself.

 5.) **Client Credentials:** This is preferable for machine-to-machine (M2M) applications such as Command Line Interfaces (CLI), daemons, and services running in the back end. Applications use a Client ID and Client Secret to authenticate themselves and get a token to pass information between the two.

 6.) **Refresh Token:** This is used by clients to exchange a refresh token for an access token which eventually expires. The refresh token is generated based on preset parameters and allows clients to have a valid access token without constant interaction with the user.

### Conclusion {#conclusion}

You can probably see now why OAuth and OIDC are among the most preferable authentication mechanisms available today. Implementing SSO is a must for practically any online business with a website, and OAuth and OIDC make that easy for you. In the end, how you want to customize it is up to you. But rest assured, opting for a flexible and powerful protocol will help you tremendously in the long run.

### References {#references}

- [Why Your Organization Should be Using OAuth 2.0](https://www.clowder.com/post/why-your-organization-should-be-using-oauth-2.0).
- [Picking the right SSO technology](https://www.dqindia.com/picking-the-right-sso-technology/)
- [OAuth vs. SAML vs. OpenID Connect](https://gluu.org/oauth-vs-saml-vs-openid-connect/)

Among the dominant open web standards available to you today, OAuth and OpenID Connect (OIDC) are perhaps the most flexible, reliable, and easy to use. Let’s see why both these are so widely used, and why you may want to think about implementing Single Sign-On (SSO) onto your website.

Why should you use OAuth/OpenID Connect for WordPress SSO?


Atlassian's suite of applications such as Jira, Confluence, and Crowd, play critical roles in modern workplaces. Jira serves as a versatile project and issue-tracking tool, empowering teams to efficiently plan, monitor, and manage their work. Confluence, on the other hand, fosters collaboration by providing teams with a shared workspace for creating, sharing, and collaborating on content, thereby facilitating seamless knowledge sharing. Crowd acts as the linchpin of user authentication and authorization across multiple Atlassian products, offering a centralized solution for identity and access management.
While these tools have revolutionized productivity, their use has also highlighted the importance of robust Single Sign-On (SSO) solutions. As teams grow and projects become more complex, the need for robust SSO solutions has never been more pressing. SAML (Security Assertion Markup Language) SSO, a trusted approach, is often met with its own set of challenges, ranging from intricate configurations to user management complexities.
To conquer these obstacles, organizations are increasingly turning to SCIM DC – a transformative solution that promises to enhance SSO and identity management within the Atlassian ecosystem. In this bit, we will explore how SCIM DC can be the key to unlocking seamless, secure collaboration.

### The Foundation: Atlassian SAML SSO {#atlassian-saml-sso-foundation}

Atlassian's SAML SSO is a robust solution that allows users to access their applications seamlessly without the need to remember multiple passwords. With SAML, users authenticate once through their identity provider (IdP), and then gain secure access to their Atlassian tools, making the login process more efficient and secure. While SAML SSO solves the authentication challenge, managing user accounts, permissions, and access control remains a separate and complex task.

### The Challenge of User Provisioning and Management {#user-provisioning-channel}

As an organization grows, so does its user base and the complexity of user management. Adding and removing users, assigning appropriate roles and permissions, and keeping user data up to date are critical tasks. Without an efficient user management solution, organizations can face challenges related to compliance, security, and user experience. SCIM (System for Cross-domain Identity Management) DC is the missing piece that complements Atlassian's Native SAML SSO, providing a unified solution for both authentication and user provisioning. Let's explore…

### Unlocking the Magic of SAML SSO+SCIM {#saml-sso-and-scim}

SAML SSO+SCIM DC may sound like a mouthful, but it's actually a powerful addition that simplifies your online access. SCIM and Native SAML SSO are two separate but related technologies that can be used to enhance identity and access management in an organization. While they serve different purposes, they can complement each other to create a more robust and seamless authentication and authorization system. 

&nbsp;&nbsp; 

**Immediate User Provisioning**

One significant advantage of SCIM DC is the immediate user provisioning it offers. With SAML alone, there may be delays between a user being added to your identity provider and then gaining access to Atlassian applications. SCIM DC streamlines the onboarding process, enhancing user experience and productivity. **It eliminates the wait time for new users to access Atlassian applications, increasing efficiency and minimizing disruptions to your team's workflow.** Whether you're bringing in new team members or making updates to your existing user roster, SCIM DC's immediate user provisioning ensures that the right individuals have instant access to the tools they need.

### Advanced Group Management through Provisioning {#advance-group-management}

Let's talk about group mapping. In simple terms, this feature allows you to organize your access to different apps and services. You can create groups and decide who gets access to what. One of the common challenges faced by Jira administrators who set up SSO  is the difference in the groups at IDP with the groups in Jira. Here, SCIM DC automates group assignments. With SCIM, when users log in via SAML, they are automatically placed into the correct groups based on the information provided by your identity provider, such as Azure, miniOrange, or Okta. This eliminates the need for manual group mapping and ensures users have the right level of access.

### Seamless User Status Sync: {#user-status-sync}

Native SAML integration doesn't always keep user statuses synchronized. **For instance, when a user leaves your organization, you would typically have to deactivate their accounts manually within each Atlassian application. SCIM DC can sync user status changes across your Atlassian apps.** When a user is deactivated in your identity provider, SCIM DC will promptly deactivate their accounts in Jira, Confluence, and Crowd. This not only enhances security but also streamlines user management.

### Filter Groups with Custom Rules {#filter-groups-with-custom-rules}

With SAML alone, you might have limited control over which users get access to Atlassian applications based on their attributes, like department or role. SCIM DC allows for flexible group filtering. You can define rules in your identity provider to determine which users are provisioned into which groups within Atlassian applications. For example, you can set up a rule that automatically assigns all users with the "Sales" department in your identity provider to a "Sales Team" group in Atlassian or you can decide that only people whose names start with 'A' can access a particular app.

### Modify Group and Usernames {#modify-group-and-usernames}

Names are important identifiers, but sometimes they need a little tweaking. With SCIM DC, you can modify groups and usernames by applying special rules. It lets you modify group names that come from your IDP. So, if you're tired of seeing group names like "Sales123" and "Sales456," you can use regex to rename them to something clean and consistent, like "Sales." Or you can transform usernames using regex to match your organization's standards thus ensuring uniformity in user identities across all applications.

### Mapping and Customizing Attributes {#mapping-and-customizing-attributes}

Attributes are like the characteristics that make you unique. With Native SAML SSO+SCIM DC, you can map user attributes like username, email, and display name to attributes from your IDP. This ensures that everyone's profile stays up to date, no matter where they log in. In some cases, you might need to add custom attributes to user profiles, which can be challenging with native SAML integration. SCIM DC enables you to add custom attributes to user profiles. For instance, you can include an employee’s ID or a manager’s email of each user, to ensure that important information is readily available within Atlassian applications.

### In a nutshell… {#conclusion}

Atlassian SAML SSO+SCIM DC is your ticket to streamlining user management and boosting security. While SAML SSO ensures secure and streamlined authentication, the SCIM DC takes user provisioning and management to the next level. With automated user provisioning, role-based access control, real-time updates, and simplified onboarding, organizations can enhance their security, compliance, and user experience across Jira, Confluence, and Bitbucket.

&nbsp;&nbsp;  

So why wait? Embrace the power of Atlassian SAML SSO+SCIM DC as the integration offers a compelling solution, making it easier than ever to manage users in Atlassian's suite of collaborative tools. 

Reach us at +1 978 658 9387 for a demo or email your queries to [info@xecurify.com](mailto:info@xecurify.com), we would be glad to take it forward from there.


How can organizations efficiently manage user identities and access, across their Atlassian applications such as Jira, Confluence, and Crowd? This is a pivotal question posed to businesses in this era of ever-evolving workspaces, and digital teamwork as we rely heavily on collaboration and productivity tools to streamline our work processes.

Atlassian SAML SSO with SCIM DC: A Powerful Duo for Synergizing Atlassian's Applications


## Save Your Budget By Sharing Confluence Space & Pages With Unlicensed Users! 💸💰

[Confluence](https://www.atlassian.com/software/confluence?&aceid=&adposition=&adgroup=140527013959&campaign=18336813584&creative=621772822756&device=c&keyword=confluence&matchtype=e&network=g&placement=&ds_kids=p73000477014&ds_e=GOOGLE&ds_eid=700000001542923&ds_e1=GOOGLE&gclid=CjwKCAiAv9ucBhBXEiwA6N8nYNiC34mjJIjDGHonQsqo2gxQlIdb7W2xG1bTDOSFLPcKWYTBUpjPvhoCcS8QAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds) is the most used **team workspace** tool for collaboration.With real-time content, this dynamic tool makes it easier for the team to communicate effectively. You would typically wish to share the Confluence pages with two sorts of users: Licensed Users and External Users. **Licensed users** are mostly those who work for your company and regularly access Confluence; you **purchased** their Confluence **licenses** from Atlassian. On the other hand, **External users** or **Unlicensed users** don’t have direct access to your Confluence, they can be **freelancers** or maybe the **contractors** that you outsource for a specific project from some other company that you are collaborating with. External users can also be inside the company like people from Sales, Marketing, Support, Legal team or even an intern who don’t have access to your Confluence instance.

Ouchh that’s a problem! What can you do about it?

-   **Spend the project budget** on a license for each and every user in order to provide access to the material.

-   Sharing Confluence pages by **email** in the form of **PDF** or **Word** documents takes a lot of **time**, and what if someone makes significant changes after that? External users won’t have access to the most recent version of that page, leading to confusion and inefficiency.

Well, we don’t want you to spend too much time or money trying to solve these problems.

Introducing an add-on, [Secure Share Pages for Confluence Cloud](https://marketplace.atlassian.com/apps/1225078/mo-secure-share-pages-for-confluence-external-share?hosting=cloud&tab=overview) that can help you replicate and **share live Confluence** spaces and pages with **unlicensed users** or **external users** while maintaining the highest level of **security**. It allows the external users to view the space and add attachments like file or images to the Confluence.

**Comments** are the easiest way to start a discussion or conversation among the team members expressing your opinion or thought. There are two types of comments in Confluence:

**Page Comment –** This feature enables users to comment on the page’s whole content.

**Inline Comment –** The user can add a comment to a particular word, paragraph or section of the page.

miniOrange’s [Confluence Secure Share](https://marketplace.atlassian.com/apps/1225078/mo-secure-share-pages-for-confluence-external-share?hosting=cloud&tab=overview) for Cloud add-on allows **external users** to add both comments as well as inline comments.

Now that we’ve got that out of the way, how does this solution **work** and how secure is it?

With the Confluence **Secure Share** add-on, you can generate **secure, unique links** of the Confluence pages and share them with anybody you choose. An **additional layer** of security can be added by setting the **password to secure the links so that only **authorized external users\*\* can access them.

Obviously you don’t want your **link to revolve** in the universe **forever** and which is why there is a provision to set the shared link’s **expiration date,** after which the link becomes inactive and invalid.

Let’s explore the capabilities that the Confluence Secure Share add-on offers:

-   Create & share access links for any **Confluence** space & page.

-   Set **permissions** for external users to View **spaces & pages,** Add **comments & inline comments** and Add **attachments** in the shared pages.

-   You can create a **random password** or use your **own** to password-protect your shared link for **increased security**.

-   Set **validity** for the shared link

-   **Deactivate** the shared link as per your convenience

-   **Hassle-free deletion** for expired secure links

-   Free support for app setup. [Contact us](https://miniorange.atlassian.net/servicedesk/customer/portal/2) for a Secure Share demo!

We’re adding more **intriguing** and **useful features** to our add-on, like:

-   Receive updates about changes by subscribing to a Confluence space or page

-   Share child pages based on the labels

-   Restricting Confluence spaces based on the user roles or groups

-   Admin can have full control over the plugin and define the level of permissions for users


Secure Share Pages for Confluence Cloud that helps replicate and share live Confluence spaces and pages with unlicensed or external users