SSO and MFA stand out as key discussions in cybersecurity and Identity and Access Management (IAM). However, understanding the distinction between SSO and MFA is crucial. Which option is the best fit for your company? Let’s delve into the comparison of MFA versus SSO.

What Is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)?

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) verifies a user’s identity by requiring two separate proofs. These can be categorized as something you know (like a password), something you have (such as a mobile phone), and something you are (like a fingerprint).

Multi-factor authentication offers several advantages:

• Enhances cybersecurity by reducing the risks of cyberattacks
• Boosts customer confidence through added security layers
• Assists companies in meeting regulatory requirements and ensuring compliance

For further insights into the nuances of Multi-Factor Authentication, feel free to explore our comprehensive article on the topic.

What Is Single Sign-On (SSO)?

Single Sign-On (SSO) is a system that enables users to log in to various applications with one set of credentials, eliminating the need for repeated authentication.

Single Sign-On (SSO) simplifies access to multiple applications by consolidating login credentials into a single set. With SSO, users only need one set of credentials to switch between integrated applications without the need to repeatedly enter passwords.

Single Sign-On (SSO) can benefit your company in many ways:

Single Sign-On (SSO) guarantees a smooth login process by consolidating login details for multiple cloud applications. With SSO, the hassle of repeatedly entering passwords for each login is eliminated.

But here comes a common SSO concern:

A user needs to enter their password just once to access all applications. This means that a hacker only needs to crack one password to gain entry to all apps linked through Single Sign-On. This concern is valid, but you can enhance your SSO security with MFA. Indeed, combining SSO with MFA is a widely adopted solution today. Yet, what does this entail? Are MFA and SSO fully compatible with each other?

MFA vs. SSO: How Do MFA and SSO Work Together?

MFA and SSO do not have to be used independently. Merging these technologies can enhance user security without compromising user experience. By adding MFA as an additional layer to SSO logins, you significantly bolster login security while only slightly impacting user convenience. MFA can potentially thwart 99.9% of attacks on accounts, making the trade-off more than worthwhile. Within Rublon, you have the option to implement Mobile Push authentication for enhanced login security. This method requires a single tap, maintaining user convenience while drastically improving security measures.

To delve deeper into the collaboration between SSO and MFA facilitated by the SAML 2.0 protocol, explore the topic further in “MFA for SAML.”

MFA vs. SSO: What’s the Difference?

Having understood that SSO and MFA can work together, let’s delve into the distinctions between these two approaches.

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)	Single Sign-On (SSO)
Enhances password security	Reduces the hassle of password reentry
Integrates additional authentication factors	Minimizes password input frequency
Emphasizes user security	Prioritizes user convenience
Applicable across different applications, VPNs, and services	Primarily utilized for cloud-based applications
Type of authentication	Cloud security technology

The primary distinction between MFA and SSO lies in their functionalities. MFA enhances security by adding an extra layer of protection to combat the vulnerabilities associated with passwords. On the other hand, SSO, a cloud security technology, streamlines the login process by requiring users to input their password only once per session, reducing the need for repetitive entries.

So, MFA and SSO are two disparate technologies with different purposes. While MFA focuses on user security, Single Sign-On concentrates on the convenience of user logins. SSO is mainly used for cloud apps and integrated with a security provider using the SAML protocol. In contrast, MFA can protect a wide array of applications, VPNs, and services.

Enable MFA and SSO Now

Let’s recap the key points discussed today. 

MFA and SSO differ significantly in focus, use, and purpose. However, SSO and MFA are complementary technologies rather than conflicting ones. Combining Single Sign-On and Multi-Factor Authentication can provide users with a seamless and secure login experience in numerous scenarios.