Single sign-on (SSO) is an authentication technology that allows users to access multiple
applications with a single set of login credentials. SSO architecture has advantages as well as
disadvantages.
Advantages
It cuts down on password fatigue.Users or employees feel comfortable to use one
password for different services. They don’t want to create different one and make
themselves headache. For simplicity, users create only one, not strong password for
multiple sites, accepting risks.
Single Sign-on enhances identity protection.Organizations use SSO technology to
identity security within their teams using multifactor authentication (MFA).
It boosts speed where counts the most.In large industries like healthcare, defence
and finance, or large organizations, many people and departments demand quick and
unrestrained access to the same application. SSO is very perfect in that situation.
SSO relieves stress on helpdesks.Since users use only one password to get access in
organization’s system, calling in for password issues are less. Because of less issue,
IT team saves more time and money and can focus on critical work.
Disadvantages
Very strong password is necessary because if one set of SSO credential is unveiled, it
might lead to a series of breaches under that user’s umbrella.
If SSO goes down, access to all connection goes down. To avoid this condition, plans
should be made to deal with challenges of cracks which might present themselves.
If your identity provider gets breached, all linked systems could be opened to attack.
A single point of failure needs to be avoided if possible and a response plan should be
created in advance.
SSO is not the ideal solution for multi-user computers because SSO allows only one
credential to access into the system.
Reduced sign-on (RSO) may be needed in some environment, leading to a greater
cost. There might be a condition in which a company needs to accommodate users
with different levels of access, additional authentication servers may be required.
I have chosen the same industry Health and Social Care from last week discussion 4. I
recommend SSO for this industry for the following reasons.
Support a Dynamic Workforce Infrastructure.With SSO, only one sign on is allowed to
get access into organization’s system.SSO reduces the time of healthcare personnel spend
logging into different devices and systems and use the remaining time to enhance the clinical
workflow.
Create Better Workflow Efficiencies.SSO makes easier for users to remember just one
password for multiple applications. Without SSO, successful passwords must be complex,
and changed frequently, leading to time wasted trying to remember or resetting passwords.
Ensure Crucial Regulatory Compliance.In healthcare industry, health information must be
protected through Healthcare Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). SSO
healthcare systems help satisfy HIPAA and other regulatory patient privacy and protection
requirements by authenticating all users who access electronic records and audit controls to
track access and user activity.
Sources
Victoria Garment.2021.SSO in Healthcare: 3 Reasons Why It Should Be a Top
Priority.https://www.parallels.com > blogs > ras > sso-in-healthc....
Mayra Cotes.2020.Single Sign- On (SSO): Pros & Cons.https://cynexlink.com >
Newsroom.
