The technology ensures that users don’t have to log in repeatedly. Instead, a single login grants access to multiple connected systems.
What is Single Sign-On?
Single Sign-On (SSO) is an authentication method that allows users to access multiple digital services with just one login. Instead of signing in separately to each application, a single authentication is enough to access all connected systems.
SSO is especially relevant in complex IT environments – for example, in organizations with numerous tools, platforms, and user accounts. It improves the user experience and reduces the administrative burden of managing passwords
How does the Single Sign-On process work?
SSO is based on a central identity service, known as an Identity Provider (IdP). This provider handles the authentication and, upon successful login, issues a token – essentially a digital ID. This token is then passed to the connected services, which use it to grant access.
Standardized protocols are used in this process:
- SAML (Security Assertion Markup Language): Common in traditional enterprise environments.
- OAuth 2.0 / OpenID Connect (OIDC): Widely used in web and cloud applications.
These standards ensure secure, traceable, and interoperable communication between the identity provider and the connected services.
Benefits of Single Sign-On
SSO offers a range of benefits for both users and IT teams:
- Time savings: One login grants access to many applications.
- Fewer password issues: The number of credentials is significantly reduced.
- Centralized user management: Roles and permissions can be managed efficiently.
- Reduced attack surface: Fewer password entries mean fewer vulnerabilities.
- Improved user experience: Especially valuable in hybrid work environments.
SSO is a key component of modern security and efficiency strategies.
Passkeys – a modern alternative to SSO?
While Single Sign-On simplifies access to multiple applications with one login, Passkeys take it a step further: they enable passwordless authentication that is secure, fast, and user-friendly.
Passkeys are based on asymmetric cryptography. Instead of a password, the user relies on a digital key pair: the private key remains securely stored on the device, while the public key is registered with the service. Authentication typically happens via biometric methods such as fingerprint or facial recognition.
The result:
- No more password phishing
- No password management required
- High security with a seamless user experience
Curious? Then take a look at our glossary entry on Passkeys.
Single Sign-On & Common Use Cases
SSO is widely used across various sectors:
- Enterprises: Unified access to email, intranet, CRM, HR tools, and more.
- Cloud services: Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, Salesforce.
- Education: Central portals for learning platforms, exams, and administration.
- Healthcare: Access to patient records, documentation systems, and scheduling tools.
SSO is also common in the consumer space – for example, when logging into third-party apps using Google, Apple, or Facebook credentials.
Real-world example: SSO with OIDC in specialized applications
Document management systems (DMS) also rely on Single Sign-On – often via the open authentication protocol OpenID Connect (OIDC). This allows users to authenticate once and then access various specialized applications without repeated logins.
This is also the case with easy DMS and its related solutions such as easy invoice, easy contract, and easy hr. Integrating SSO via OIDC ensures a seamless user experience and reduces the administrative effort involved in managing access – especially in environments with complex role and permission structures.