What are the key differences between identity federation and single sign-on?

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What are the key differences between identity federation and single sign-on?

Asked on Dec 22, 2025

Answer

Identity federation and single sign-on (SSO) are both identity management concepts that facilitate user authentication across multiple systems. Identity federation allows users to access multiple systems using a single identity managed by a trusted identity provider, while SSO enables users to authenticate once and gain access to multiple applications without re-entering credentials.

Example Concept: Identity federation involves establishing trust relationships between different organizations or domains, allowing users to authenticate with their home domain and access resources in a partner domain. Single sign-on, on the other hand, focuses on providing seamless access to multiple applications within a single domain or across federated domains without requiring users to log in multiple times. Both concepts enhance user experience and security by reducing password fatigue and minimizing attack surfaces.

Additional Comment:

Identity federation often uses protocols like SAML, OAuth, or OpenID Connect to establish trust and share identity information across domains.
SSO implementations can be part of identity federation but can also exist within a single organization using centralized authentication systems.
Federation is crucial for cross-organizational collaborations, while SSO improves user convenience and security within an organization.

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