
According to the **Atlassian announcement** that came out in October 2020, new server license sales have come to end on 2nd February 2021. Server support for existing licenses will continue to be offered by Atlassian until Feb 2024. However, maintenance and support pricing would increase for server licenses. Atlassian is providing all its server customers three years of time to migrate to the Data Center or Cloud depending on their business needs.

Focusing on the existing server licenses, until 2nd Feb 2022, Atlassian will provide support [database, java, browser] and bug fixes for server products. Beyond that, Atlassian will only provide security bug fixes for critical vulnerabilities until the products will reach the end of support i.e. 2nd Feb 2024. Server customers will also experience an increase in maintenance costs. Also, upgrading and downgrading of user tiers for server products and applications will be limited till 2nd Feb 2022.

&nbsp;&nbsp;  

**Impact on Atlassian Marketplace Add-Ons**

- Existing server customers can still purchase server apps/ add-ons available on Atlassian Marketplace till 2nd Feb 2023. 
- Renewals for atlassian marketplace add-ons will also continue till “2023”. 
- Beyond that, you won’t be able to renew your add on license which implies end of server life in Atlassian.
- If you have a Data Center instance, you will need to purchase a Data Center subscription of the add-on provided, the DC version is available on Marketplace.
- If there is no Data Center version available, you can continue to use the server version of the app, though it comes with some risk as the app has not received an architecture review or been performance tested to ensure it can scale in a Data Center environment.
- Whenever a Data Center version becomes available, you will then need to purchase a Data Center subscription to use it on your Data Center instance.

As a customer centric [Atlassian SSO vendor](https://marketplace.atlassian.com/vendors/1213308/miniorange), we are committed in helping our server customers to migrate to Data Center. We will be providing full support and maintenance for all our Server add-ons till 2024.

&nbsp;&nbsp;  

Reach out to us at **support-atlassian@miniorange.atlassian.net** or raise a support ticket by [clicking here.](https://miniorange.atlassian.net/servicedesk/customer/portal/2)

Atlassian server support is ending in February 2024. Existing customers have three years to migrate to Data Center or Cloud. Server support will be limited after February 2, 2022, with no new bug fixes or features. Marketplace add-on sales and renewals will end on February 2, 2023. miniOrange will be providing migration support for customers.

Atlassian Server is gone but Marketplace Add-ons stays with you!


The **Authorization Code Flow + PKCE** is an OpenId Connect flow specifically designed to authenticate native or mobile application users.

Applications without the ability to store a client secret, such as native or single-page apps, employ this grant type  (SPA).

**Proof Key for Code Exchange, or PKCE** for short, is an abbreviation. Users are not required to submit a client secret in the PKCE route, which differs significantly from the conventional Authorization Code flow in this regard. Because embedded secrets are not required in source code, PKCE lowers security risks for native apps by limiting the potential for reverse engineering.  

### Why PKCE Authentication is Required? {#Why PKCE Authentication is Required?}   

Some additional security risks are raised when public clients (such as native and single-page programs) ask for access tokens that are not addressed by the Authorization Code Flow alone.  
This is because

#### **Native apps:**  
Cannot securely store a Client’s Secret. Decompiling the app will reveal the Client Secret, which is bound to the app and is the same for all users and devices.
May make use of a custom URL scheme to capture redirects (e.g., MyApp://) potentially allowing malicious applications to receive an Authorization Code from your Authorization Server.  

#### **Single-page apps:**  
Cannot securely store a Client Secret because their entire source is available to the browser.
OAuth 2.0 offers a variant of the Authorization Code Flow that uses a Proof Key for Code Exchange (PKCE) in light of these circumstances (defined in OAuth 2.0 RFC 7636).

The calling application creates a secret known as the Code Verifier that may be confirmed by the authorization server in the PKCE-enhanced Authorization Code Flow. In order to obtain an Authorization Code, the calling app also produces a transform value of the Code Verifier called the Code Challenge and delivers it over HTTPS. In this manner, a hostile attacker can only intercept the Authorization Code and cannot use the Code Verifier to swap it for a token.

### How does it work? {#How does it work?}
In place of the **client_secret**, the client app creates a unique string value, **code_verifier**, which it hashes and encodes as a **code_challenge**. When the client app initiates the first part of the Authorization Code flow, it sends a hashed **code_challenge**.  

Once the user authenticates and the authorization code is returned to the client app, it requests an **access_token** in exchange for the authorization code.  

In this step, the client app must include the original unique string value in the **code_verifier** parameter. If the codes match, the authentication is complete and an **access_token** is returned.


### PKCE Authentication Flow {#PKCE Authentication Flow}
The processes are quite similar to those of **Oauth** because the **PKCE-enhanced Authorization Code Flow** builds upon the conventional Authorization Code Flow.

![PKCE Authentication Flow](/blog/assets/2023/pkce-authentication-flow.webp)  

1. Within the application, the user selects **Login**.
2. The SDK for miniOrange constructs a cryptographically random code verifier and a code challenge from it.
3. The user is forwarded to the miniOrange Authorization Server (**/authorize endpoint**) via the miniOrange SDK along with the code challenge.
4. The user is forwarded to the login and authorization prompt by your **miniOrange Authorization Server**.
5. A consent page outlining the permissions miniOrange will provide to the application may be displayed after the user authenticates using one of the predefined login options.
6. As the user is redirected back to the application with an authorization code that is valid for one usage, your miniOrange Authorization Server records the code challenge.
7. This code is sent to the miniOrange Authorization Server (/oauth/token endpoint) via the miniOrange SDK together with the code verifier established in step 2.
8. The code challenge and code verifier are verified by your miniOrange Authorization Server.
9. A response from your miniOrange Authorization Server contains an access token and an ID token (and optionally, a refresh token).
10. The access token can be used by your application to contact an API and access user data.
11. The requested data is returned by the API.
 

### How to implement PKCE with miniOrange? {#How to implement PKCE with miniOrange?}
The easiest way to implement the Authorization Code Flow with PKCE is to follow our [Native Quickstarts](https://www.miniorange.com/integrations/). (These setup guides will help you with setup).  

&nbsp;  

Depending on your application type, you can also use our mobile or single-page app SDKs:  
[Download](https://miniorange.s3.amazonaws.com/public/plugins/idp/jwt-connector.zip%22) Mobile SDK’s.

&nbsp;  

&nbsp;  

#### **More Resources:**
- [What is OAuth? How does it work?](https://blog.miniorange.com/what-is-oauth-2/)
- [OAuth Server Service by miniOrange](https://www.miniorange.com/products/oauth2-server)
- [OAuth API Docs](https://developers.miniorange.com/docs/idp/api/oauth-api) 


 Learn how the Authorization Code flow with Proof Key for Code Exchange (PKCE) works and why you should use it for native and mobile apps.

Authorization Code Flow with Proof Key for Code Exchange (PKCE)


***Authentication and Authorization*** are often used interchangeably but they are distinct security processes in [identity and access management (IAM)](https://www.miniorange.com/iam/).

**Authentication** is the process of verifying your identity by confirming your credentials, such as your username/user ID and password. The system then uses your credentials to verify that you are who you claim you are.

**Authorization** is the process of determining whether an authenticated user has access to specific resources. After the system has properly confirmed your identity, you will be granted complete access to resources such as information, files, databases, finances, and so on.

The key difference between authentication and authorization is that the user or service identity is confirmed through authentication, and their access privileges are established through authorization.

 

### What is Authentication? {#what-is-authentication}
[Authentication](https://www.miniorange.com/authentication-services) is a process that identifies the identity of an oncoming user. This is the root step of all Identity Management. Identification of identity is simple – a set of credentials are accepted by a user and he/she is authenticated if those credentials are correct.

Sometimes, there can be another layer to this authentication, and the user might need to pass through a more complex but secure authentication process than just simple credentials passing. A user’s identity is verified by many different factors through this process before the system grants them access to anything. This may include a time-bound OTP, a set of questions, a hardware token, biometrics, etc.

 

### What is the Purpose of Authentication? {#what-is-the-purpose-of-authentication}
The main purpose of authentication is to verify and validate the identity of an individual or entity trying to access a system, application, or resource. It ensures that the user is who they claim to be and grants them appropriate access privileges based on their authenticated identity. This ensures that unauthorized personnel or impostors cannot illegally get access to critical resources. 

Authentication serves as a fundamental security measure to protect sensitive information, prevent unauthorized access, and maintain the integrity and confidentiality of data. It plays a crucial role in establishing trust, mitigating security risks, and safeguarding user accounts and resources from unauthorized use or malicious activities. Authentication is a very pivotal part of Identity and Access Management for modern organizations.

 

### What are the Popular Authentication Methods? {#what-are-the-popular-authentication-methods}
Over the years, a wide range of [authentication methods](https://www.miniorange.com/blog/different-types-of-authentication-methods-for-security/) have been developed. Now, we’ll go through the most popular forms of authentication and demonstrate how each method works in modern systems.

![Types of Authentication Methods](/blog/assets/2023/different-types-of-authentication.webp)

#### **Biometric:**  
[Biometric](https://www.miniorange.com/blog/everything-you-need-to-know-about-biometric-authentication/) authentication is a method of verifying a person’s identity using their unique biological traits. It assists you in verifying individuals and ensuring that they are who they say they are. The biometric data of the users is collected and stored in a database, which is later compared to ensure that the user is authenticated. Different types of biometric authentication include fingerprint scanners, eye scanners, voice recognition, face identifier, etc.  

&nbsp;  


#### **Password-based:**  
The most frequent way of authentication is passwords. A string of letters, numbers, or special characters can be used as a password. You must develop strong passwords that incorporate a mix of all possible solutions in order to secure your identity.  

&nbsp;  

#### **Single Sign-On Authentication:**  
This method of authentication enables users to access different applications, resources, and systems using a single set of credentials. [Single Sign-On](https://www.miniorange.com/products/single-sign-on-sso) streamlines the authentication process, which provides a seamless user authentication experience. It improves productivity and security at the same time.  

&nbsp;  

#### **Multi-factor:**  
[Multi-Factor Authentication](https://www.miniorange.com/products/multi-factor-authentication-mfa) is the most advanced mechanism, requiring two or more levels of protection from multiple authentication categories to enable user access to the system. To prevent security breaches, this includes elements that are independent of one another.  

&nbsp;  

#### **Passwordless Authentication:**  
In passwordless authentication users do not need passwords to authenticate, instead, other methods like OTP, Email Verification, Biometrics, etc., are used for authenticating the user identity. This method eliminates password management hassles and password-theft risks.  

&nbsp;  

#### **API:**  
The process of confirming a user’s identity while requesting to access server-side services is known as [API authentication](https://developers.miniorange.com/docs/rest-api-authentication/wordpress/api-key-authentication). Basic HTTP, core API, and 0Auth are only a few of the most used APIs.  

&nbsp;  

#### **Certificate-based:**  
Digital certificates are used in certificate-based authentication solutions to identify individuals, computers, and devices. A digital certificate is a type of electronic document similar to a driver’s license or passport. Only a certification authority may issue digital certificates to show ownership of a public key.


### What is Authorization? {#what-is-authorization}
Authorization is the process that determines what level of access a user will get to critical resources of the organization. Authorization deals with the role of an individual within an organization or a group. Considering an example, the employee who belongs to the Accounts and Finance team will be authorized to only Account-related tools and applications, and not the Sales and Business-related tools. 

Authorization of a user is very important, as most web resources today are to be selectively shared among user bases, and most online business models also run this way. That is the reason why it is one of the most crucial steps when talking about access management.

 

### What are the Popular Types of Authorization?  {#what-are-the-popular-types-of-authorization}
Below are some of the techniques used for the authorization process. Each of these techniques works differently and is important in its own way to secure data.  

**API Keys:**  
The API key is a long string that is usually provided in the URL or header of the request. The API key is mostly used to identify the individual initiating the API request (authenticating you to use the API). Most APIs require you to sign up for an API key before you can use them.  

**Open ID:**  
The Open ID layer is an authorization authentication layer built on top of the 0auth2.0 framework. It enables clients to validate the end user’s identification using the authorization server and to acquire basic profile information about the end user in an interoperable and REST-like manner.  

**SAML:**  
[SAML](https://www.miniorange.com/what-is-saml) is an XML-based authentication and authorization mechanism that connects two entities: the SP and the IDP. Security Assertion Markup Language (SAML) is a standard SSO in which verified data is transferred via digitally signed XML documents.  

**HMAC:**
Hash-based Message Authentication Code is a digital signature technique that makes use of message digest algorithms like MD5 and SHA-1 to produce a reliable data integrity protocol.  

**HTTP:**  
Authentication and authorization both employ this mechanism. To establish their identity, a user typically submits a username and password. This technique excludes cookies, session IDs, and login pages since the [HTTP header](https://www.miniorange.com/reverse-proxy/header-based-authentication) is used.  

&nbsp;  

#### **While considering Authentication and Authorization, Authorization can only be granted after Authentication.**  


![Authentication & Authorization Process : Flow Diagram](/blog/assets/2023/authentication-authorization.webp)
 

### Authentication VS Authorization {authentication-vs-authorization}

| Authentication | Authorization |
| -------------- | ------------- |
| Authentication is the process of verifying who a user is through Login or Passwords. | Authorization gives those users permission to access a resource. |
| It works through passwords, biometrics, and other information provided or entered by the user. | Authorization works through settings that are implemented and maintained by the organization. |
| It is visible & partially changeable by the user. | Authorization isn’t visible & changeable by the user. |
| Data is transferred through ID Tokens (JWT Token). | Data transmits through Access Tokens. |
| Authentication is usually done before Authorization. | Authorization can only be granted after Authentication. |
| e.g. When a college student walks into their campus, they have to showcase their identity card at the gate to get authenticated as a student of the institution. | e.g. Once the student is authenticated they walk towards their pre-allocated building, towards their floor, and their classroom. This is where Authorization is in play, the student does not have access to the professor’s cabin or the principal’s office. |
 

### Authentication and Authorization in Cloud Computing {#authentication-and-authorization-in-cloud-computing}

Authentication and authorization are essential components required for securing cloud computing environments. They help ensure that only authorized individuals or entities can access resources and perform actions within the cloud infrastructure.  

Different Authentication methods discussed in this article can be implemented to verify the identity of a user or entity requesting access to a system or resource within the cloud. Different authentication mechanisms are used to establish trust between the user and the cloud service provider (CSP).  

In cloud computing, Authorization or [access control](https://www.miniorange.com/reverse-proxy/access-control) is used for granting or denying permissions to authenticated users based on their roles, responsibilities, or other attributes within the cloud environment. Authorization mechanisms help enforce the principle of least privilege, ensuring that users only have access to the resources they need. 


### How miniOrange can help you Implement Authentication & Authorization in your Organization? {#how-miniorange-can-help-you-implement-authentication-and-authorization-in-your-organization}

Being in a high-paced cyber world, it’s an important need for enterprises to adopt Authentication and Authorization mechanisms to fortify their security posture. To successfully implement these robust security measures in your organization, you need a customized [Identity and Access Management (IAM)](https://www.miniorange.com/what-is-iam-identity-and-access-management) solution from a trusted IAM vendor.  

miniOrange provides a wide array of solutions that efficiently and securely enable Identity and Access Management for your organization in On-Premise, Cloud, and Hybrid environments. But before choosing any cloud Security Service provider for implementing Authentication and Authorization mechanisms, you should confirm they confidentially handle your information, with the simplest technical support at a budgeted price. The miniOrange IAM solution is highly customizable, scalable, and fits your organization’s unique needs.  You can leverage the [miniOrange Free Trial](https://www.miniorange.com/iam/free-trial) to try out our IAM solution & test all the features to make better and more well-informed decisions.

 

### FAQ {#faq}
**Which comes First, Authentication or Authorization?**  
In the Identity and Access Management process, authentication typically comes before authorization. Authentication is the process of verifying digital identities. Once authenticated, the next step is authorization. Authorization determines what actions and resources a user is allowed to access.

&nbsp;  

&nbsp;  


#### **Further Reading:**
- [miniOrange Authentication Services](https://www.miniorange.com/authentication-services)
- [Two-Factor Authentication](https://www.miniorange.com/blog/2fa-security/)
- [What is Authentication?](https://www.miniorange.com/blog/different-types-of-authentication-methods-for-security/)
- [What is OAuth (Open Authorization)?](https://www.miniorange.com/blog/what-is-oauth-2/)
- [What is Identity-as-a-Service (IDaaS)?](https://www.miniorange.com/blog/what-is-identity-as-a-service-idaas/)

The key difference between authentication and authorization is that the identity of user & service is confirmed through authentication, and their access privileges are established through authorization.

What is the difference between Authentication and Authorization?

**Microsoft’s plan to replace Basic Authentication, with Modern Authentication, from Exchange Online** is being postponed until the second half of 2021 due to the current situation created by the COVID-19 pandemic. You might think: What is replacing basic authentication? Wait, what is Basic authentication in the first place that is being replaced? Continue reading this article to learn more about basic authentication and modern authentication, and why it is happening.

### What is Basic Authentication and its drawbacks? {#what-is-basic-authentication-and-its-drawbacks?}
Basic Authentication is an authentication commonly used for internet resources. Basic Authentication or Basic Auth has the advantage of being relatively simple, **Username and password** are stored in plain text with base64 encoding in a single header field.  

As a result, Basic Auth had to be used in conjunction with SSL in order to encrypt the headers and protect the user’s credentials. Even when HTTPS is utilized, there are still a number of Basic Auth vulnerabilities. A few major being:

- Authentication headers are included in each request, hence the possibility of capturing credentials is essentially limitless.
- Passwords can be cached (and maybe permanently kept) in the browser, providing still another point of vulnerability.
- The entire foundation of basic authentication is built on a very basic and antiquated username-password architecture adding another point of vulnerability to this authentication.
- Basic auth doesn’t support scoping or grading permissions, hence any applications with the user credentials gains potential access to all data a certain user has access to.  

In today’s world, the ideal security and privacy practice are to grant access to exactly the data and resources needed for an application to function, and nothing more. Hence there is a need for an authentication resource that can overcome all these shortcomings/vulnerabilities.

 

### What is Modern Authentication? {#what-is-modern-authentication?}
Modern Authentication is a term used to refer to authentication and authorization protocols that are better designed for today’s world, for Internet-scale and management. These Protocols allows administrators to define rules for 

- Authentication (the process by which anything or someone logs into a system),
- Authorization (mechanisms that ensure you don’t have full access to something by default), and
- Configure Conditional Access Policies (policies that establish the conditions).  

Modern authentication includes/enables authentication features like multi-factor authentication (MFA), smart cards, certificate-based authentication (CBA), and third-party SAML identity providers. Users will be prompted for these additional authentication features based on the conditional access policies configured by the system administrator.

Authentication is based on Token rather than caching or sending username and password over the network, as done in Basic Authentication. Modern authentication protocols like OAuth2.0 allow the users to use services like SSO, enabling a more secure and improved login experience. 

 

### How Modern Authentication works? {#how-modern-authentication-works?}
Username and password will no longer be the primary source of authentication, but will still be required to produce an access token (at least for now) by authenticating with an identity Source/provider. This token contains more specific information about the requestor’s rights and privileges (in the form of a claim) and is validated by application. These Tokens can also be revoked and set to expire on a specific date, giving additional control over who has access to what information.

 

![Modern Authentication and benefits of modern authentication](/blog/assets/2023/how-modern-authentication-works.webp)

 

### Benefits of Modern Authentication {#benefits-of-modern-authentication}
Modern authentication leverages protocols like OAuth2.0 to allow admins/users to fine-tune authentication policy to better control access to resources. Other than being more secure, One of the biggest advantages of Modern Authentication is that it allows admins to configure all policies at one central location which is at the identity provider. This relieves the Administrator from the responsibility of configuring policies for individual apps separately, hence mitigating the chances of missed configuration update for an application leaving a loophole in security. 

 

### Conclusion {#conclusion}
Modern Authentication is unarguably the next stage in the authentication cycle that will replace basic authentication methods. Although the switch is slow and the deadlines(some) for disabling Basic Authentication and less secure app access have been extended, upgrading to Modern Authentication as soon as possible is still recommended.   

Modern Authentication is not only safer than Basic Authentication, but it is also more user-friendly and simplifies the task of the administrator. Multiple of Microsoft’s services like Outlook for Office 365, Outlook 2016 / 2019, Mail for Windows 10 has implemented support for Modern Authentications and the number of applications doing so will keep increasing. You can signup for a demo account for miniOrange IAM solution from here.  

&nbsp;  

&nbsp;  


### External Links {# External Links}
- [General Microsoft Modern Authentication Information](http://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2015/11/19/updated-office-365-modern-authentication-public-preview/)
- [Enabling Modern Authentication for Skype Online](http://social.technet.microsoft.com/wiki/contents/articles/34339.skype-for-business-online-enable-your-tenant-for-modern-authentication.aspx)

Modern authentication is a authentication method of identity management that offers more secure user authentication and authorization than possible with basic Authentication. Learn about the benefits of using an identity and access management solution to enable modern authentication for your organization.

Organizations are moving to modern authentication, and why should you too?


First impressions are crucial—they build credibility and set expectations for users. Logging in is often their first interaction with your organization, making a seamless and secure experience is essential.  

&nbsp;  

Cart abandonment affects **70% of Ecommerce shoppers**, driven by high charges, readiness issues, and security concerns. In this blog, we will see what is [Customer Identity and Access Management (CIAM)](https://bit.ly/3XNEF1a) & how it can help tackle cart abandonment and improving customer retention strategies by creating desired identity experiences, and explores how modern identity management can boost business opportunities securely.


### What is CIAM? {#what-is-ciam}
CIAM solution is equipped with strong security measures, ensuring a smooth and protected customer journey. In Ecommerce, **CIAM securely handles [customer identity](https://bit.ly/4eP4291) and profile data**, making it easier for customers to access services without compromising security. This approach not only benefits customers but also streamlines operations for organizations.  

&nbsp;  

In essence, CIAM acts as a versatile pathway for customers and businesses alike. By implementing **security protocols like [authentication](https://www.miniorange.com/blog/different-types-of-authentication-methods-for-security/), data governance, and customer profiling**, CIAM enhances user experiences across various channels, promoting trust and usability.  

&nbsp;  

![What is CIAM?](/blog/assets/2024/what-is-ciam.webp)  

&nbsp;  

### Ways to Prevent Abandoned Carts {#why-yo-prevent-abandoned-carts}

#### Convenience & Speed: 2 things consumers want from your login.  

Brands like **Amazon, Flipkart, Uber, and Apple** revolutionized digital authentication, pushing others to compete in digital identity. Logins became engagement opportunities. The global pandemic accelerated digital service use, transforming the authentication market. Now, businesses leverage IAM and CIAM solutions to achieve their goals.  

&nbsp;  

1. **Convenient & seamless login experience**

CIAM for Ecommerce seamlessly integrates with both [modern and legacy applications](https://bit.ly/4bokxGc), making it a versatile solution for various enterprises. This integration allows organizations to have greater control over their information across all platforms and applications, from websites to mobile apps and beyond. As a result, customers enjoy a consistent and streamlined user experience, regardless of their device or location.  Listed below are a few features which helps in creating a seamless experience:  

&nbsp;  

- **SSO**:
[Single Sign-On (SSO)](https://bit.ly/4coSeJb) enables consumers to use a single ID and password for multiple related services. This feature is popular because it eliminates the need for multiple passwords and frequent password resets, simplifying the login process.
- **Social Login**:
[Social media logins](https://bit.ly/4eHrzJb) provide an added layer of security and facilitate strong identity management. These quick and powerful authentication methods enhance the customer experience without causing disruption.
- **Progressive Profiling**:
CIAM goes beyond basic registration details, allowing businesses to gather insights into **customer shopping behaviors and preferences**. This valuable data can be leveraged to enhance targeted marketing and other business strategies.  

&nbsp;  

![Convenient & seamless login experience](/blog/assets/2024/convenient-seamless-login-experience.webp)  

&nbsp;  

2. **Secure customer credential storage**

Concerns about data breaches and payment gateway scams can deter customers from completing their purchases. To protect against these threats, implementing robust authentication protocols is essential. **CIAM solutions** enhance security by tokenizing customer identities, thereby separating them from sensitive data during storage. CIAM for Ecommerce uses MFA authentication methods to achieve this level of security. Below feature helps in creating a secure platform:  

&nbsp;  

- **MFA**:  
[Two-factor authentication (2FA)](https://bit.ly/3W6KC8a) is essential, requiring customers to provide additional verification factors beyond just passwords, such as a **PIN, One time Password or Biometric**. This multi-layered approach greatly enhances security. Additionally, customers' devices can be integrated into the authentication process. For example, logging into a Google account from a new device often prompts an email notification to verify the user's identity.

MFA is highly valued by consumers worldwide, making them more likely to sign up for a website that offers it. However, only about **30% of businesses** currently provide this solution. Implementing CIAM allows organizations to ensure comprehensive visibility and secure management of their collected data, aiding compliance with regulations like GDPR.  

&nbsp;  

- **Adaptive Authentication**:  
[Adaptive authentication](https://bit.ly/3WitpaT) is useful for admins as it simplifies managing security while enhancing user experience. For instance, admins can set policies where usual user behavior leads to quick access, reducing helpdesk calls for password resets. When unusual activities are detected, like logins from new locations, adaptive authentication adds extra steps, ensuring that only legitimate users gain access. This balance improves security without burdening users, making it easier for admins to maintain a secure and efficient authentication system.  

&nbsp;  

![Secure customer credential storage](/blog/assets/2024/secure-customer-credential-storage.webp)  

&nbsp;  

### Conclusion — CIAM can get back your unengaged customers {#conclusion}

**CIAM's authentication process** enhances customers' sense of security while shopping online, which reduces the likelihood of abandoned carts.  

miniOrange caters to all cloud/web/mobile applications when it comes to identity management & security. Few popular in demand integrations includes [Shopify](https://bit.ly/46mtTkL), [BigCommerce](https://bit.ly/3zZ7rSU), [Magento](https://bit.ly/3Yjbq6F), [WooCommerce](https://plugins.miniorange.com/wordpress-woocommerce-integrator) **and many more**.  

&nbsp;  

It's never too late to enhance your customers' experience. [miniOrange CIAM](https://bit.ly/3XNEF1a) can transform customer interactions, address security risks, and provide **24/7 service** — it all starts at login. Discover how [miniOrange CIAM & IAM](https://bit.ly/3y00dgU) can guide your organization towards modern identity management and **improved CX**.

**If you’d like to find out more about how CIAM can help your business, request a demo [here](https://bit.ly/3La3Zac).**



Customers abandon their carts all the time, often signaling a loss of interest in your brand. This blog explores how Customer Identity and Access Management (CIAM) can tackle the issue of abandoned carts, helping you retain customers and enhance their overall experience. “You focus on building your brand, let miniOrange take care of the streamlined user login experience."

How CIAM Can Prevent Abandoned Carts for Ecommerce Businesses


## Convert WordPress Site to Android Application

### WHAT IS WORDPRESS REST API AND WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF REST? {#what-is-wordpress-rest-api} {#what-are-the-advantages-of-rest}

WordPress REST API is a set of instructions used to access your WordPress website from outside of the WordPress installation which you can use to convert WordPress website to android application or any other platform application. WordPress REST API allows you to access the WordPress site resources like pages, posts, etc from your mobile application.


APIs act as a mediator between Resources (database) and user (UI). API fetches data from the database and shows it to the user.


REST stands for Representational State Transfer. REST is a architectural style for an API and an application is RESTful only if it stands on these 5 principles:

**1) Uniform interface** : Application must have a uniform interface between components so that there is a standard form for the transfer  of information.

**2) Client-server** : There has to be client-server and resourcer involved and the requests should be sent over HTTP.

**3) Stateless** : This means that no user (client) data is stored on the server between 2 GET requests and every request is independent of each other.

**4) Cacheable** : The data should be cacheable so that client-server interactions are streamlined.

**5) Layered system** : This is to ensure the entire system is secure, load, balanced and that the entire system is not visible to the client.



WordPress REST API lets you to interact with WordPress from outside of WordPress, be it a mobile application or desktop application.In brief, we can say that a third-party website or a mobile app can access your WordPress database and perform operations such as fetching data from it and adding data to wp database. WordPress REST api changed WordPress from CMS to an application platform. 

![rest-api-flow](/blog/assets/2023/rest-api-flow.webp)

Suppose you have a website (like WooCommerce, LearnDash, etc) on WordPress and you want to have a mobile application that will use the same resources/ database used by your WordPress site, so you need something that can facilitate this without hurting the integrity of your WordPress site. For this purpose our WordPress REST API can be used which will allow you to integrate your WordPress website and android / iOS mobile application. REST API will allow you to convert WordPress site to mobile app by utilizing the WordPress site resources and exchange data in the form of JSON (JavaScript Object Notation).  You can also use WordPress REST API to Login and get user data on your mobile application.WordPress REST API will convert your woocommerce site into an android application.



REST API provides functions that will allow you to fetch data from WordPress sites onto your mobile application.
![rest-functions](/blog/assets/2023/rest-functions.webp)

### CONVERT WORDPRESS WEBSITE TO ANDROID APP {#convert-wordpress-website-to-android-app}

**1) Related Topic** – Build a mobile app with WordPress REST APIs, How to make more out of WordPress Rest API by doing less

![rest-api-authentication-plugin](/blog/assets/2023/rest-api-authentication-plugin.webp)

If you have a WordPress website for your company and now you want to have a mobile (android/iOS) app so that  your customers would be able to choose between your website or mobile application so that your users will be able to have a seamless experience. Research shows that 51% of users search for products online, so if you create a mobile application for your website, you will definitely get an edge over your competitors.

 **2) WordPress data fetch for displaying on mobile application**: With WordPress REST API you can fetch posts, pages from your wp website to display on your mobile (android/iOS) application with various authentication options present in our plugin. If you want to login into WordPress site on your mobile app, you can use the WordPress username/password and access the wp database easily by rest api login which will authenticate the credentials before giving access to the database.

**3) User Register sync**: If a user registers on the mobile application of your WordPress site, he will be eligible to login on your WordPress website also and vice versa. The data generated on your WordPress site or mobile app will remain synchronized. So the integrity and consistency of your site’s data is maintained without any compromise on security.

**4) Syncing and Securing data flow from third party plugins on your website**: If your website is using third party plugins like Woocommerce, Learndash, Buddypress, Gravity forms etc, that data can also be synced between your mobile and WordPress application with our secure and protected authentication methods making sure nothing is compromised.

**5) Login into mobile app using WordPress credentials**: With the help of our Rest API Authentication plugin’s WordPress login API, you can authenticate/validate your user login into mobile application. Suppose you have a WordPress site and you have now created a mobile app (android/iOS) which has a user login for where user puts in his username/password, REST API will allow you to authenticate the user by checking the credentials on WordPress database and send a successful message on validation and show an error if the credentials are invalid.

**6) Woocommerce site into mobile app**: If you have a WooCommerce site and now you want to create an android app for the same store so that same products list, user details are accessed and maintained, so Rest API will allow you to authenticate Woocommerce API on mobile application and synchronize your inventory between mobile and WordPress installation. It can also keep track of user carts across devices. Let’s say you have a woocommerce site built on WordPress where you have all your products listed and you want to create a mobile (android/iOS) application from where your users can login and order products as listed on your woocommerce site, REST api will allow you to synchronize and share data between your WordPress site and mobile app. You will be able to access your woocommerce rest api in your mobile application and you also will be able to login into it with WordPress credentials.

**7) LearnDash** : Learndash is a blessing if you have to impart e-learning in universities, small to midsize companies, startups, etc. REST API allows you to secure / protect your access to Learndash user profiles, courses, groups & many more APIs across WordPress installation and android application. If you have a learndash site on WordPress and you want your courses to be accessible on your mobile (android/iOS) application, you can use REST API to fetch and synchronize data with your WordPress database.

**8) Webview access on mobile**: If you have a website on WordPress and you want to create an application for mobile device which will access the same resources as your WordPress site, you can use WordPress api to access the wp site on mobile phone with webview. It means you will have a mobile app for your WordPress site using WordPress rest API.

**9) Custom API Endpoints in the WordPress REST API**: Suppose you want to access custom data on your WordPress site on your mobile application, so we have a plugin [“Custom API for WordPress”](https://plugins.miniorange.com/custom-api-for-wordpress) which can allow you to define your custom endpoints /REST api routes and also it has easy-to-use graphical interface where you can put custom SQL queries as well.


### IS REST API SECURE? {#is-rest-api-secure?}

![rest-api-secure](/blog/assets/2023/rest-api-secure.webp)
By default WordPress endpoints are insecure. Hackers can easily send requests to your WordPress API and get access to your Posts, Post, Revisions, Categories, Tags etc, and can perform CRUD operations easily on your website. The default REST api connection is not encrypted and can be easily viewed in JSON format. REST api is a door to a lot of opportunities but if left unattended and insecure, then this door of opportunities will turn into a disaster for your website and user data. So by adding our [WordPress REST API AUTHENTICATION](https://plugins.miniorange.com/wordpress-rest-api-authentication) to your WordPress/ woocommerce website your endpoints won’t be unprotected. Our plugin will let you set various API authentication methods according to your needs and requirements.

Letting a client application (android mobile application) to manipulate data on your data resource by allowing access through API is secure with our [WordPress REST API AUTHENTICATION](https://plugins.miniorange.com/wordpress-rest-api-authentication) plugin allows you to make calls to your WordPress site from android mobile application without compromising the security of your website. Our plugin will make sure that only authenticated users are allowed to access your site data and will protect your WordPress database throughout. We have various authentication methods in our plugin to  make sure that your WordPress website is protected and secure. 


### REST API AUTHENTICATION BEST PRACTICES. {#rest-api-authentication-best-practices}

 - [Basic Authentication](https://plugins.miniorange.com/wordpress-rest-api-basic-authentication-method)

    This is basic authentication method to protect your WordPress endpoints by following methods:
    * Username:Password : This method for Basic Authentication authenticates the REST APIs by using username and passwords in the authorization header with the form of base64 encoded or with highly secure HMAC encryption.
    * Client-ID:Client-Secret : This method for Basic Authentication authenticates/protects the REST APIs by using client credentials provided by the plugin in the authorization header with the form of base64 encoded or highly secure HMAC encryption.

    
![basic-authentication](/blog/assets/2023/basic-authentication.webp)
    
   - [API Key Authentication](https://plugins.miniorange.com/rest-api-key-authentication-method#step_a)

    It allows you to secure WordPress endpoints without exposing user credentials as the plugin generates an API key for accessing any resource which can also be regenerated in the plugin UI.
   - [JWT Authentication](https://plugins.miniorange.com/wordpress-rest-api-jwt-authentication-method#step_a1)

    WordPress REST API Authentication itself issues the JWT token and works as an API Authenticator to protect your REST APIs. The plugin itself provides the REST API endpoint through which you can generate the JWT token very easily by passing the valid WordPress user credentials.
   - [OAuth 2.0 Authentication](https://plugins.miniorange.com/wordpress-rest-api-oauth-2-0-authentication-method#step_a)

    If you don’t have a third-party identity provider, then in this case WordPress REST API Authentication works as both OAuth Server(Provider) and API Authenticator to protect your REST APIs. It is the most secure method to authenticate the WordPress REST API endpoints.
    * Password Grant : If you want to fetch user specific content from the database then this method is useful.
    * Client Credentials Grant: This method uses the OAuth 2.0 protocol with Client Credentials grant to authenticate the WP REST API endpoints to use services which call APIs without users.
   - [Third Party Provider Authentication](https://plugins.miniorange.com/wordpress-rest-api-authentication-using-third-party-provider#step_a)

    if you are already using an external OAuth/OpenID Connect (Identity provider) which provides you with an access token/id token or a JWT token, then that token can be used to authenticate the WordPress REST APIs and the plugin will validate the token directly from these token providers and only on successful validation, API endpoints are allowed to access.


Convert WordPress Site to Android Application


## SSO for Atlassian Applications connected to Crowd

Crowd is a centralized identity and access management application that manages the users from multiple directories like Active Directory, LDAP, Open LDAP, Microsoft Azure Active Directory for connected applications such as Jira, Confluence, Jenkins etc. This makes access to applications without logging into each individually a lot simpler with a single set of credentials.

Now, organizations are looking to delegate user authentication for Atlassian applications from Crowd to central IAM (Identity & Access Management) applications for better security and allow their users to seamlessly access all the Atlassian applications connected to crowd including Jira, Confluence, Bitbucket, etc using the single IAM session.

There are multiple solutions available to achieve these requirements:
- In case you have an Atlassian Data Center application, you can integrate each application with IAM for SAML SSO using the application’s built-in SSO 2.0 functionality. 
- In case you have a Server version or looking for customization and other features not present in built-in SSO 2.0, take a look at the SSO plugins available on the Atlassian Marketplace.
- Use Crowd SSO for user and permission management and if you want to prevent applications from directly integrating with IAM.

Here we will be focusing on the third solution only, using this solution, all authentication requests and responses to and from Atlassian applications will go through the Crowd server and user authentication will be handled by the IAM while the Crowd will still be used to manage users and their permission for the Atlassian applications.

### How does the miniOrange plugin handle this use case? {#miniorage-plugin-solution}

We developed a SAML Single Sign-on app for Crowd Server that allows it to integrate with any SAML complaints IDP for SAML Single Single Sign-on.

Along with the Crowd SAML Plugin, we have developed its connector add-ons for the Atlassian application, which allows the [Crowd SAML SSO](https://marketplace.atlassian.com/apps/1218304) plugin to enable SSO and Atlassian applications connected to crowd such as [Jira](https://marketplace.atlassian.com/apps/1220053), [Confluence](https://marketplace.atlassian.com/apps/1220055), [Bitbucket](https://marketplace.atlassian.com/apps/1220057), [Bamboo](https://marketplace.atlassian.com/apps/1220056), and [Fisheye](https://marketplace.atlassian.com/apps/1222983). Here, users don’t need to login to Crowd for SSO to work, they can directly do so from their Jira or Confluence application.

**Crowd SSO Plugin and it’s Connectors:**
- [Crowd SAML SSO plugin](https://marketplace.atlassian.com/apps/1218304/mo-saml-single-sign-on-sso-for-crowd?hosting=server&tab=overview)
- [SSO Connectors for Crowd and JIRA](https://marketplace.atlassian.com/apps/1220053/mo-sso-connector-for-crowd-and-jira?hosting=datacenter&tab=overview)
- [SSO Connectors for Crowd and Confluence](https://marketplace.atlassian.com/apps/1220055/mo-sso-connector-for-crowd-and-confluence?hosting=datacenter&tab=overview)
- [SSO Connectors for Crowd and Bitbucket](https://marketplace.atlassian.com/apps/1220057/mo-sso-connector-for-crowd-and-bitbucket?hosting=datacenter&tab=overview)
- [SSO Connectors for Crowd and Bamboo](https://marketplace.atlassian.com/apps/1220056/mo-sso-connector-for-crowd-and-bamboo?hosting=server&tab=overview)
- [SSO Connectors for Crowd and Fisheye](https://marketplace.atlassian.com/apps/1222983)

### How does it work? {#how-does-it-work}

Crowd SAML SSO Plugin acts as a SAML Service Provider and is used to enable trust between Atlassian applications and central IAM applications. Crowd SAML SSO plugin takes care of the SAML Request, SAML response, and user’s session management across all the Atlassian applications, and using the SSO connector for Crowd, users will be able to invoke SSO directly from the Atlassian applications itself.

Here, user authentication will be done by the IAM and Crowd will still be used to manage users and their groups (permissions) for all the connected Atlassian applications connected to crowd.

Also, with this flow, end-users will experience a seamless login and won’t be able to notice that the SSO request and response passes through the Crowd Server.

**Let’s understand the Workflow!**

- User tries to access the application i.e., Jira tickets, Confluence pages, etc
- User will be redirected to the IAM application’s login page for authentication.
    - Users will be redirected to the Crowd SAML plugin.
    - Crowd SAML plugin will redirect the user to the IAM application for authentication.
- Once the authentication is done, the user will be redirected back to the Atlassian applications connected to crowd and logged in.
    - IAM sends a response back to Crowd SAML plugin
    - Crowd SAML plugin validates the SAML Response and takes care of the  user creating the user session, and redirects the user to the respective application from where the SSO was invoked.
    - Users will be granted access to the application based on their groups and applications configured on Crowd.

### What are the Key Benefits? {#what-are-key-benefits}

- There is only one set of SAML configurations for all the Atlassian applications.
- User authentication is moved to central IAM without losing any of the existing user permissions.
- Users will be able to access all applications (Atlassian and Non-Atlassian applications) using their IAM credentials.
- This solution made setup easy to enforce an additional security layer like MFA on top of the SSO which was not possible while using Crowd for Single Sign-On.

What do you think of this solution? Do you think this would be helpful in centralizing authentication for your users? Drop us a mail at [info@xecurify.com](mailto:info@xecurify.com) or raise a ticket [here](https://miniorange.atlassian.net/servicedesk/customer/portal/2) to talk to us.

Jira Service Management (JSM) is a powerful service management solution designed to streamline your support processes. However, JSM portals often face the challenge of dealing with spam tickets generated by malicious actors or automated bots, especially if it’s a public-facing platform.

SSO for Atlassian Applications connected to Crowd


This month, we’re focusing on how Identity and Access Management (IAM) works and where it’s used. IAM is a critical part of cybersecurity, and it’s important to understand how it works and where it’s used in order to keep your online identity safe.

Identity and access management (IAM) is an emerging field that includes not only traditional role-based access models but also cloud-based, federated identity management. IAM also provides organizations with a secure and scalable foundation for managing their enterprise, on-premise, and/or cloud-based resources.

The idea behind IAM is that if you have multiple employees working on different projects at the same time, you don’t want them all having access to each other’s accounts. Instead, they should be assigned different accounts so they can’t accidentally share passwords or cause any damage by downloading files from each other’s computers. 

### How Identity and Access Management Works? {#How Identity and Access Management Works?}   

IAM is all about managing access to online resources. It’s used to authenticate and authorize users to access specific resources. IAM systems manage access to websites, applications, and data.  
There are many different types of IAM systems, but they all have one common goal: to protect your online identity by verifying it and making sure that you have the appropriate permissions to access the resources you’re trying to access.  

Some common features of IAM systems include:

- User account management: creating and managing user accounts, setting passwords, and managing user permissions
- Authentication: verifying the identity of users who are trying to access systems and data
- Authorization: granting or denying access to systems and data based on user permissions

### Where Identity and Access Management is Used? {#Where Identity and Access Management is Used?}

IAM systems are used in various industries, including healthcare, finance, government, and education. Each industry has its own unique requirements for IAM, but the overall goal is always the same to keep your online identity safe.  

The best way to protect your online identity is to use a strong IAM system. IAM systems are designed to keep your information safe and ensure that only the people with the appropriate permissions can access it.


### How can Single sign on and multi-factor authentication help you protect your online identity? {#How can Single sign on and multi-factor authentication help you protect your online identity?}

IAM systems can also help to improve the efficiency of an organization by reducing the need for multiple passwords and by providing a single sign-on solution for accessing multiple systems.  

IAM systems are an essential part of any organization’s security strategy, and they are critical for protecting data and ensuring that only authorized users have access to the resources they need.  

Multi-factor authentication adds an extra layer of safety to your accounts. With multi-factor authentication, you’re typically asked to provide a code that’s sent to your phone or email.
 

### Consider these few things if you're looking for an IAM system for your business {#Consider these few things if you're looking for an IAM system for your business}

- **You need to find an IAM system that meets your specific needs.**  
There are many different types of IAM systems, so it’s important to find one that’s right for your business.  

The most common types of IAM systems include Active Directory, IDP, Single sign-on, Multi-factor authentication, LDAP, and Kerberos. Each of these systems has its own strengths and weaknesses, so it’s important to understand what each one is good for before you choose which one to use.  

&nbsp;  

- **You need to make sure that your IAM system is properly implemented.**  
IAM systems are complex, and they need to be properly implemented in order to work properly.  

The key here is to make sure that all the users have access to the resources they need. A good practice is to create an account for each user and assign them a unique username and password. This way you can ensure that every user has their own account, which will allow them to access the data in any way they need.  

Another important thing is that all of these accounts must be protected by different passwords or keys, so no one can access another person’s data or resources without their knowledge. If you want to make it even more secure, you can use multi-factor authentication (MFA) where you will require two different passwords from each user.  

&nbsp;  

- **You need to make sure that your IAM system is always up to date.**  
IAM systems are constantly changing, and you need to make sure that your system is always up to date.  

The main disadvantage of not updating the IAM system is that it will not be able to provide the best security to your users. The reason for this is that the system is constantly changing, and if you don’t update, then your users will be at risk. Another reason why it’s important to keep your IAM system updated is that if you don’t update it, then hackers can hack into your system and gain access to all of your data. If this happens, then they will be able to steal passwords and other information from your users’ accounts.  

Another disadvantage of not updating your IAM system is that it can cause problems with user error. If a user forgets their password or doesn’t update their password when prompted by an automated email message, then this could result in someone breaking into their account and stealing their information.

&nbsp;  

miniOrange’s core identity product provides central and converts IAM solutions with bring together some of the most sorts after IAM features such as Single Sign-On (SSO), Multi-factor Authentication (MFA), Risk-Based Authentication, User Life Cycle Management which includes User Provisioning and De-Provisioning, Universal Directory and few more specific and segregated features to ensure that your entire Identity journey is a seamless handle from one central platform. We believe that security can be simple and with a high return on investment and we eliminate friction in the IAM journey of our users by complete end-to-end support for every single admin product interaction.  

IAM is a critical component of any cybersecurity program, and it’s important to understand how it works. IAM helps to prevent unauthorized access to resources, and it’s also important for compliance purposes.  

Cybersecurity Awareness Month is the perfect time to review your IAM strategy. If you’re not using SSO or MFA, now is the time to start. Contact miniOrange about how Single sign on and multi-factor authentication can help you protect your online identity.

&nbsp;  

#### **More Resources:**
- [Single Sign-On](https://www.miniorange.com/products/single-sign-on-sso)
- [Workforce Identity](https://www.miniorange.com/workforce-identity)
- [What is CIAM](https://blog.miniorange.com/what-is-ciam-customer-identity-and-access-management/) 


IAM is a critical part of cybersecurity, and Single Sign-On (SSO) & multi-factor authentication (MFA) can help you protect your online identity.

Do you have an IAM setup? Cybersecurity Awareness Month, Focuses on how and where IAM is used


When the word “technology” is used, the phrase “authentication and security” immediately comes to mind. Authentication becomes the first baby step in improving security, given the growing requirement for it. The basic job of authentication is to manage user identification and provide them with suitable access control for seamless operation and security. Individual authentication does not have to be restricted to usernames and passwords. [Single Sign-On (SSO)](https://www.miniorange.com/single-sign-on-sso), [Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)](https://www.miniorange.com/blog/what-is-multi-factor-authentication-mfa/), [Provisioning](https://www.miniorange.com/blog/what-is-provisioning/), [Adaptive Authentication](https://www.miniorange.com/adaptive-multi-factor-authentication-mfa), and other Identity and Access Management (IAM) tools augment the capabilities of standard authentication.

 

### What Is Authentication? {#what-is-authentication}
Authentication is the process of identifying users that request access to a system, network, server, app, website, or device. The primary goal of [authentication](https://www.miniorange.com/products/authentication) is to ensure that a user is who they claim to be. User A, for example, has access to only relevant information and is unable to see User B’s personal information. Unauthorized users are prevented from accessing sensitive data with user authentication. Authentication improves security by allowing any Organizational admin to manage an individual user’s identity and access. The basic authentication used for identity and access control verification is username and password, with **different types of authentication** techniques that we shall cover moving forward.

 

### Why Is User Authentication Important? {#why-is-user-authentication-important?}
There is no organization, system, network, website, or server in today’s modern world that does not require some form of authentication. If they are not, they are putting themselves at risk of attacks that could result in the misappropriation of their resources and sensitive data at the very least. A single blunder may expose your organization’s data to cybercriminals, as they are always prepared with a variety of cyber weaponry, such as (Phishing, Data breaches, spoofing, etc). When your authentication system isn’t up to par, they can quickly get access and steal information. A few of the most recent major attacks will lead you to the conclusion that, whether you are a little business or a large corporation, authentication using the finest security techniques is a must to stay stable in this technological environment.

 

### Different types of Authentication {#different-types-of-authentication}
When it comes to authentication and security, there is a vast ocean of different authentication options to choose from. Before adopting or choosing any of the authentication methods for your Organization’s employees or end-users, you should be aware of a few key factors that will help you choose the most appropriate authentication technique for you:  
1. Security capability of that Authentication Method
2. Usability interface
Let’s take a closer look at the many sorts of authentication techniques available:
 
**1. Password Based Login:**  
The most commonly utilized regular login authentication system that you will employ on a daily basis while utilizing an online service is password-based login. You need to input a combination of your username/mobile number and a password when using the Password-Based Authentication technique. The individual is authorized only when both of these elements have been verified. However, because today’s customers use multiple online services (apps and websites), it’s tough to keep track of all of their usernames and passwords. As a result of this, end-users engage in unethical behaviors such as forgetting passwords, using the same password for several services, and so on. Cybercriminals enter at this point and begin actions such as phishing, data breaches, and so on. That is the fundamental reason why standard password-based authentication is losing favor and more organizations are turning to advanced additional security authentication factors.  

&nbsp;  

**2. Multi-Factor Authentication:**

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is an authentication method in which an individual must pass multiple factors in order to gain access to a service or network. It’s an extra layer of security on top of the standard password-based login. Individuals must also submit a second factor in the form of a one-time code that they will receive through phone or email in addition to their Username and Password.

You may quickly configure several Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) methods to give an extra layer of security to your resources. OTP/TOTP via SMS, OTP/TOTP over Email, Push notification, Hardware Token, and Mobile Authenticator are all examples of MFA methods (Google, Microsoft, Authy, etc). You can choose any of the MFA techniques and implement them for organizational security based on your needs and requirements. After traditional password-based login, Multi-Factor Authentication is the most trusted authentication mechanism. For improved security, password-based traditional authentication and Multi-Factor Authentication methods are usually used simultaneously.  

&nbsp;  

**3. Biometric Authentication:**

Individual physical attributes such as fingerprints, palms, retinas, voice, face, and voice recognition are used in biometric authentication. Biometric authentication works in the following way: first, the physical characteristics of individuals are saved in a database. Individuals’ physical features are checked against the data contained in the database whenever a user wants to access any device or physically enter any premises (Organization, School, Colleges, Workplace). Biometric authentication technology is mostly employed by private organizations, airports, and border crossing points where security is a top priority. Because of its capacity to create a high level of security and a user-friendly frictionless flow, biometrics is one of the most often used security technologies. Among the most common biometric authentication methods are:

**1. Fingerprint:** To enable access, fingerprint authentication matches the unique pattern of an individual’s print. In some advanced Fingerprint authentication systems, the vascular structure of the finger is also sensed. Because it is one of the most user-friendly and accurate biometric systems, fingerprint authentication is currently the most common biometric technology for ordinary customers. Biometrics’ popularity can be due to the fact that you use your mobile phones with fingerprints on a regular basis, as well as companies or institutions that use Fingerprint authentication.

**2. Retina & Iris:** Scanners shine a strong light into the eye and look for distinctive patterns in the colorful ring around the pupil of the eye in this biometric. After that, the scanned pattern is compared to data recorded in a database. When a person wears spectacles or contact lenses, eye-based authentication can be inaccurate.

**3. Facial:** In facial authentication, multiple aspects of an individual’s face are scanned while they try to get access to a certain resource. When comparing faces from different angles or persons that look similar, such as family members, face recognition results can be inconsistent.

**4. Voice Recognition:** Your voice tone is stored with a standardized secret code in the same way that the above-mentioned approach does. A check occurs because you must speak off each time you want access.  

&nbsp;  

**4. Certificate-based authentication:**

Certificate-based authentication identifies people, servers, workstations, and devices by using an electronic digital identity. In our daily lives, a digital certificate functions similarly to a driver’s license or a passport. A certificate is made up of a user’s digital identity, which contains a public key and a certification authority’s digital signature. This certificate verifies that the public key and the person who issued the certificate are both the same person. When a user attempts to log in to a server, they must first present their digital certificate. The server checks the digital certificate’s identity and credibility by confirming that the user has a correctly associated private key with the certificate using cryptography.  

&nbsp;  

**5. Token-Based Authentication:**

Token-Based Authentication allows users to enter their credentials only once and obtain a one-of-a-kind encrypted string exchange in return. After that, you won’t have to input your credentials every time you want to log in or acquire access. The digital token ensures that you have already been granted access. Most use cases, such as Restful APIs that are accessed by many frameworks and clients, require token-based authentication.  


### How will miniOrange advance Authentication technologies will help you out? {#how-will-miniorange-advance-authentication-technologies-will-help-you-out}
As we get to know more about different types of Authentication, we will move forward with some advanced Authentication Solutions that miniOrange provides with “All in one Approach”. It will help you to Manage Identities and access both with advanced security features.


**Single Sign-On Authentication (SSO):**  
Single Sign-On is a subset of basic username-password-based Authentication. Going with SSO authentication will provide advanced security and multiple features with frictionless experience to your end-users. Single Sign-On as the name depicts allows individuals to enter their username and password once and get access to all configured applications. Simply stating you will have the provision to configure “N no apps” with miniOrange and you can set a single password for all these apps. With this, you don’t need to remember multiple passwords for different applications and you just need to login once and you will automatically get access to all applications. The benefit for this will include – As users need to remember just a single password they will not forget it or write it on any sticky notes type of stuff. Access to multiple applications will become easier which will improve efficiency and boost productivity. From the admin end, they will receive fewer support calls for password resets and login issues.

**2nd Factor Authentication (Two-Factor Authentication):**  
As the name implies, “two-factor authentication” requires an individual to pass two separate authentication procedures in order to gain access to a certain resource.Consider the following scenario: you have a website/app/group of applications and you want to add more protection to it to prevent current cyber assaults such as data breaches, phishing, or the use of key loggers. With miniOrange, you can configure any app/website built on any platform and enable 2FA for that application. One Time Passwords (OTP through SMS/ Email), Push Notifications, Biometrics, Authenticators (Google Microsoft,Authy), Yubikey and Hardware Token, and more 2FA options are available from miniOrange.According to one of the most recent security surveys, 2FA can prevent 80% of data breaches.

**Adaptive Authentication:**  
Adaptive Authentication is a type of authentication that adapts to the circumstances.” Adaptive Authentication,” a more advanced kind of 2FA/MFA authentication, is introduced. You can authenticate users depending on their “IP, Device, Location, Device, and Time of Access” in this section. If IP and Location-based authentication are enabled, after entering the username and password, Adaptive Authentication will check if the user’s IP is the same as the one used by the administrator and whether he is in the location to which he has been assigned. If he does not comply, he will be denied access to the resources. This is one of the most advanced authentication methods used by businesses to ensure their security.

**API Authentication:**  
Now-a-days, API has become a popular model because it handles large volumes of data and is a new dimension to the online security world. There are many API authentication methods, the most popular of them are HTTP Basic Auth, API keys, OAuth.

**HTTP Basic Authentication:**  
To prove their authenticity, a user agent just offers a username and password.  Because it believes in the HTTP header itself, this solution does not require cookies, session IDs, or login pages.

**API Passwords:**  
An API key is a unique identifier for web service requests that identifies their source (or similar types of requests).When a user attempts to get allowed access to a system for the first time through registration, a key is produced.Following that, the API key is paired with a secret token and is submitted with subsequent queries.When a user tries to re-enter the system, their unique key is used to verify that they are the same person who used the system previously.

**OAuth:**  
OAuth is a popular API authentication technique that allows for both authentication and authorization.OAuth allows the API to authenticate and access the system or resource requested by establishing scope.

 
### Conclusion {#conclusion}
In today’s fast-paced technology environment, security is the most crucial component in standing out from your competitors and providing a flawless experience to end consumers.  

Putting your security at risk can have a number of negative effects on your company, such as phishing attacks and data breaches. To avoid problems like these, you should choose an authentication system for your company that fits your budget and allows for a smooth user flow.  

As an experienced IAM solution supplier, miniOrange can assist you in determining the most reliable authentication option for your organizational structure. If you have any questions about the authentication procedure, you can contact [info@xecurify.com](mailto:info@xecurify.com).

Learn about Authentication, Different types of Authentication methods and how to implement them in your company to ensure your users always have proper access considering cybersecurity.

What is Authentication? Different Types of Authentication


## **DNN SAML SSO: Seamless User Verification with Single Sign-On** {#Seamless User Verification with SSO}   

Security and user experience are more critical than ever for online businesses these days. As an organization expands and incorporates more web applications for its operations, the need for a strong web content management system becomes paramount. DotNetNuke (DNN) stands out as a promising platform in this regard. Its integration capabilities, particularly through the SAML Single Sign-On (SSO) plugin, streamline user authentication across various applications, enhancing both security and user experience. 

Let’s look at what DNN SAML SSO is, its benefits, features, and more in detail.

### **What is DNN SAML SSO?** {#What is DNN SAML SSO?}

DNN SAML SSO is a security solution that simplifies user authentication by allowing users to log in once through a trusted [identity provider (IdP)](https://plugins.miniorange.com/dnn-saml-single-sign-on-sso-module) and gain seamless access to multiple applications or services, including their DNN site.This integration not only enhances security by centralizing authentication but also improves user experience by eliminating the hassle of remembering and managing multiple sets of credentials.

DNN SAML SSO allows websites to strengthen their defenses against unwanted access while also offering users with a streamlined and secure login experience. Embracing this technology not only aligns with web security best practices, but it also improves the overall usability and credibility of your website.


### **Benefits of DNN SAML SSO** {#Benefits of DNN SAML SSO}

**Enhanced Security**

SAML SSO reduces the risk of password fatigue and phishing attacks by centralizing authentication through a trusted identity provider (IdP) like [Azure](https://plugins.miniorange.com/saml-single-sign-on-sso-for-dotnetnuke-sites-using-azure-ad-as-idp) and [ADFS](https://plugins.miniorange.com/saml-single-sign-on-sso-for-dotnetnuke-sites-using-adfs-as-idp). This reduces the risk of password-related vulnerabilities and unauthorized access attempts. It also ensures that only verified users can gain access to the DNN site and other integrated services.


**Improved User Experience**

As users can access multiple applications with a single set of credentials, it reduces login friction and offers a seamless login experience. This further eliminates the need to remember multiple sets of credentials, enhancing convenience and usability.


**Streamlined Administration**  

Centralized user management enables system administrators to manage user access more effectively. Changes performed at the IdP level (such as user provisioning and role assignments) are quickly reflected across all applications, simplifying user administration duties.

### **Key Features of SAML SSO in DNN** {#Key Features of DNN SAML SSO}

**Compatibility**

SAML SSO extensively supports a wide range of identity and service providers. Users authenticate once with their identity provider (IdP) credentials and gain access to all applications and services connected via SAML, including DNN sites, without needing to log in multiple times.

**Scalability**

As businesses expand, SAML SSO in DNN can scale to accommodate additional users and apps while maintaining performance. This helps organizations to efficiently manage authentication for a growing number of users and applications without compromising performance or security. 


**Customizable User Attributes**

Administrators can choose which user attributes are exchanged throughout the SSO procedure to ensure seamless interaction with multiple apps. This also helps in aligning with specific security policies and user authentication requirements.


**Strong Security Protocols**

SAML SSO protects user identities and data with built-in security features like digital signatures, encryption, and secure tokens. By leveraging the SAML protocol, DNN SAML SSO reduces the risk of phishing and password-related vulnerabilities by eliminating the need for users to enter credentials directly into the DNN site.


### **Best Practices to Implement DNN SAML SSO** {#Best practices to implement DNN SAML SSO}

**Regular Updates:**

Update and maintain your SAML SSO configuration regularly. This includes IdP configurations, software patches, and integration settings. Stay informed about security updates related to SAML and SSO technologies.


**Monitor Authentication Logs:**

Regularly review authentication logs to detect and respond to suspicious activities. Implement monitoring and auditing mechanisms to track SAML SSO user access patterns, authentication events, and potential security incidents. 


**Implement Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA):**

Enhance security of your DNN site by adding MFA for user authentication. This adds an extra layer of protection as it requires users to verify their identity through additional means (e.g., SMS code, authenticator app) beyond the normal username and password.

**User Training and Awareness:**

Educate users about the importance of secure authentication practices and how to use SSO effectively. Provide training and support to users and convey them the benefits of SSO, how to initiate sessions, and security best practices, such as recognizing phishing attempts.


### **The Best DNN SAML SSO Solutions** {#Best DNN SAML SSO solutions}

At miniOrange, we specialize in providing comprehensive SSO solutions tailored to meet the needs of your DNN environment. Our [SAML SSO solutions](https://plugins.miniorange.com/dnn-saml-single-sign-on-sso-module) ensure secure, scalable, and seamless authentication for your users. We support all popular IDPs available in the market like [Okta](https://plugins.miniorange.com/saml-single-sign-on-sso-for-dotnetnuke-dnn-using-okta-as-idp), [Office365](https://plugins.miniorange.com/dnn-saml-sso-using-office365-as-idp), [Shibboleth](https://plugins.miniorange.com/dnn-saml-sso-using-office365-as-idp), [ClassLink](https://plugins.miniorange.com/dnn-saml-sso-using-office365-as-idp), etc.


Whether you need help with [initial setup](https://plugins.miniorange.com/dnn-saml-sso-setup-guides), ongoing support, or advanced customization, our team of experts is here to assist you every step of the way.

## **Conclusion**

Integrating SAML SSO with DNN can significantly enhance security, streamline user access, and simplify administrative tasks. By following best practices and leveraging the key features of SAML SSO, businesses can provide a secure and seamless authentication experience for their users. 

&nbsp;  



### **More Resources** {#more resources}
- [What is SAML? How does it work?](https://www.miniorange.com/what-is-saml)
- [DNN OAuth Single Sign On (SSO)](https://plugins.miniorange.com/dotnet-nuke-dnn-oauth-single-sign-on)
- [DNN Two Factor Authentication (2FA)](https://plugins.miniorange.com/dnn-two-factor-authentication-2fa) 


Learn how DNN SAML SSO integration enhances website security and user experience. Streamline authentication across your DNN site and applications today!

 DNN SAML SSO Integration : Boost Website Security & User Experience


## Fortify Your Defenses: Understand How Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) Works and Its Benefits {#fortify-your-defenses}

&nbsp;

In our previous exploration of Two-Factor Authentication (2FA), we introduced you to its significance and various types. Now, in this article, we're going to dive deeper into the mechanics of 2FA and uncover the numerous advantages it brings to the table.

&nbsp;

Recent breaches at casino giants [MGM Resorts International and Caesars Entertainment](https://www.reuters.com/technology/hackers-who-breached-casino-giants-mgm-caesars-also-hit-3-other-firms-okta-says-2023-09-19/), as reported by Reuters, serve as a stark reminder of the constant cyber threats we face. These high-profile hacks shine a spotlight on the pervasive issue of ransomware attacks, which plague countless companies, from healthcare providers to telecom firms.

&nbsp;

In a world where digital threats are ever-present, ‘Two-Factor Authentication’ (2FA) acts as your digital shield. Today, we'll discuss how it works and highlight its real-world benefits, making it an essential tool in our interconnected lives. [Let's explore 2FA](https://www.miniorange.com/atlassian/two-factor-authentication-for-atlassian/), its inner workings, and the peace of mind it provides in our evolving digital landscape. In the face of these cyber challenges, 2FA can be your starting point towards enhanced cybersecurity.



### How it Works {#how-it-works}

&nbsp;

Here's a fun way to understand the process of 2FA. Imagine you're about to enter a top-secret facility, but a simple key won't be enough to gain access. You need something more... something extra! That's where two-factor authentication (2FA) comes in, acting like a double lock to protect your digital fortress.

&nbsp;&nbsp;

Step 1: You approach the virtual gate, guarded by a sophisticated authentication system. It's like a digital bouncer checking credentials.

&nbsp;

Step 2: You confidently state your username and password, like whispering the secret passphrase to the gatekeeper. The first lock clicks open.

&nbsp;

Step 3: But wait! This is a high-security zone. The gatekeeper insists on an additional form of identification, like a secret agent demanding to see your special gadget.

&nbsp;

Step 4: In response, you whip out your digital keycard, which is unique to you. It could be a code sent to your mobile phone or a special app that generates time-limited codes. It's your secret agent gadget!

&nbsp;

Step 5: The gatekeeper examines your keycard, verifying its authenticity. It's like scanning your device for a special encrypted mark, ensuring you possess the right authorization.

&nbsp;

Step 6: Beep, boop, beep! The keycard beeps in approval, confirming that you're the real deal. The second lock disengages, granting you access to the inner sanctum.

&nbsp;

Voila! You've successfully accessed the fortified walls with the power of 2FA. But remember, this is just one thrilling example. Two-factor authentication can take various forms:

&nbsp;

It could involve receiving a secret code via text message or email, acting as a temporary password that changes each time. Perhaps you need to scan your unique fingerprint or use facial recognition as the second factor, like an undercover agent's biometric identification. Some situations may even require you to answer a set of personal questions, like revealing classified information only you would know.

&nbsp;

In essence, [2FA ](https://marketplace.atlassian.com/search?query=miniOrange%202FA)is like having an extra layer of security, ensuring that even if someone manages to crack your password, they'll still need that second factor to breach your defenses. It's a way to keep your digital assets locked up tighter than Fort Knox.

### Benefits of 2FA: Protecting Assets and Data {# benefits-of-2fa-protecting-assets-and-data}

In the age of relentless cyber threats, safeguarding your digital assets and data is paramount. Two-factor authentication (2FA) stands as a formidable ally in this battle, providing an additional layer of defense that can make all the difference. Let’s delve into the concrete benefits of 2FA.

&nbsp;

**Protects assets and data from password weaknesses**

&nbsp;

Passwords are often weak and easily guessed. This puts your accounts and data at risk. With 2FA, you add an extra layer of security beyond just a password. This makes it much harder for attackers to access your accounts even if they steal or guess your password. 2FA helps prevent breaches and other password-related cybercrimes.

&nbsp;

**Cost effective, prevents data breaches and streamlines operations**

&nbsp;

Data breaches can be very expensive. The average cost of a single breach has been increasing over the years. When breaches happen because of compromised passwords, the costs are even higher. By implementing 2FA, you can prevent breaches and save money. Additionally, 2FA reduces the number of password reset requests. This means fewer calls to the helpdesk and less money spent on resetting passwords.

&nbsp;

**Weakens phishing attacks**

&nbsp;

Phishing attacks are a common way for attackers to trick people into revealing their passwords. However, 2FA can help weaken these attacks. Even if someone falls for a phishing email and gives away their password, the attacker still needs the second authentication factor to access the account. For example, they would need a code sent to the user's phone. This extra layer of protection makes it harder for attackers to compromise your account through phishing.

&nbsp;

**Gives more time to address attacks**

&nbsp;

When an attacker gets hold of a password, they can quickly cause damage. But with 2FA, there's an extra barrier. Even if a user loses their second factor, like a mobile device, security teams have more time to respond before the attacker can do significant harm. This additional time allows for taking necessary actions to secure the account and investigate the breach.

&nbsp;

**Improves security in remote settings**

&nbsp;

With the rise of remote work, security challenges have increased. Many employees use insecure devices and networks, putting sensitive information at risk. 2FA addresses these concerns by providing secure access to company resources from any device and location. Employees can work remotely without compromising the company's security. This not only boosts productivity but also ensures data protection.

&nbsp;

**Meet customer expectations**

&nbsp;

Customers want their online accounts and data to be protected, especially for financial transactions. By offering 2FA, businesses meet customer expectations and gain trust. Users are more likely to choose a service that provides 2FA because they know their accounts are better protected. Implementing 2FA demonstrates a commitment to user security and helps organizations stand out in the market.

### In the end {#in-the-end}

&nbsp;

Having explored the benefits of 2FA and its importance in securing your digital assets, it's time to consider effective solutions that can further enhance your organization's security posture. [miniOrange](https://www.miniorange.com/) offers a range of advanced products and solutions designed to complement and strengthen your existing 2FA implementation.

&nbsp;

With our innovative features and cutting-edge technology, our products provide an added layer of protection, ensuring the highest level of security for your sensitive data and critical systems. Delve into the key features and advantages of our products and see how they can help take your organization's security to the next level.

&nbsp;&nbsp;

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


Building upon the foundation laid by our initial exploration of Two-Factor Authentication (2FA), we take a deeper dive into the mechanics of 2FA. Here, we unveil additional layers of insight into the numerous advantages it brings to the table. If you've followed our previous discussion, get ready for a more detailed understanding of how 2FA enhances security.

Fortify Your Defenses: Understand How Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) Works and Its Benefits


If you're an e-commerce store owner and your online store is built on Adobe Commerce (formerly Magento), you know how important it is to provide a seamless and secure login for your backend users (admins) and Frontend users (customers). 
Adobe Commerce, formerly known as Magento, is a highly customizable and robust e-commerce platform that has evolved to meet the growing needs of businesses worldwide.

One of the best ways to achieve Single Sign-On is by [implementing Magento 2 SSO](https://plugins.miniorange.com/magento) for your store. Magento SSO extension by miniOrange allows your users to log in into your Magento store using Identity Provider (IDPs) credentials. Let's see how you can easily implement SSO on your Adobe Commerce store using the miniOrange SSO extension.

### Understanding Single Sign-On (SSO) {#understanding-single-sign-on-sso} 

Single Sign-On (SSO) allows your users to login into various applications with a single set of login credentials. Your users only need to remember one set of login credentials to access various systems and applications. This not only enhances the user experience by reducing the number of times they have to log in but also increases security by minimizing password exhaustion.  


### Why Choose miniOrange SSO Extension for Magento 2? {#why-choose-miniorange-sso-extension-for-magento-2}

miniOrange is a well-known name in identity and access management, offering a robust SSO solution for Magento 2. Here are a few reasons why miniOrange stands out:
- miniOrange SSO extension for Magento is easy to install and configure, even if you're not a tech expert.
- Supports various protocols like SAML, OAuth, and JWT, ensuring compatibility with different and every identity provider out there.
- Supports both Backend (Admins) and Frontend (Customers) users.
- Support for multi-store and multi-site Magento environments.
- Allows you to easily integrate multiple Identity Providers that facilitate your users to login into Magento using different providers credentials. 
- Auto creates users in Magento if the user is not already present in the Magento database. 
- Force authentication and auto-redirect your users to login via their Identity Provider credentials only. 
- Seamless support for all three versions of Adobe Commerce (Magento) i.e Community, Enterprise, and Cloud versions.
- Frequent updates according to the latest security patches and Magento versions.
- Advance Attribute Mapping with support for custom attribute mapping to easily map the attributes coming from your Identity Provider.
- Advance Role Mapping.
- Additional support for features like multi-factor authentication (MFA) & OTP verification to secure your store and verify every user coming to your store.
- Detailed documentation and support make the setup process easy and straightforward.  


### What are the benefits of Implementing SSO for your Magento 2 Store? {#what-are-the-benefits-of-implementing-sso-for-your-magento-2-store}

- **Enhanced User Experience:** SSO allows your customers to access your Magento 2 store with a single set of credentials, streamlining the login process. This convenience reduces the hassle of remembering multiple usernames and passwords, leading to a smoother and more enjoyable shopping experience.
- **Increased Security:** By centralizing authentication, SSO can enhance security. It reduces the risk of weak passwords being used across multiple sites, lowers the chances of phishing attacks, and allows for the implementation of stronger authentication methods, such as multi-factor authentication (MFA).
- **Improved Conversion Rates:** Simplifying the login process can reduce friction at critical points in the customer journey, such as account creation and checkout. This ease of access can lead to higher conversion rates and fewer abandoned carts, increasing sales and revenue.
- **Streamlined User Management:** For admins, SSO simplifies user management by centralizing the authentication process. This makes it easier to manage user access, enforce security policies, and integrate with other systems, ultimately saving time and reducing overhead.


### How to set up SSO for your Magento 2 store (In three easy steps)? {#how-to-set-up-sso-for-your-magento-2-store}

1. Download the miniOrange SSO extension for Magento 2 from the Magento Marketplace and install it on your Magento site. You can follow the complete installation [video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZPzm6RlmieI) guide to easily install the extension.
2. After installation, configure the Single Sign-On application in your Identity provider by configuring your Magento store URL as a Redirect / Callback URL on IDP and bring back the Client ID and Client secret from your IDP side.
3. Configure Client ID and Client secret received from IDP in Magento 2 SSO extension to establish a successful Single Sign-On connection.  

You can check out the complete step-by-step setup guides with different Identity Providers from [here](https://plugins.miniorange.com/magento-sso-single-sign-on-with-oauth-openid-connect-setup-guides).


### Best Practices for SSO Implementation {#best-practices-for-sso-implementation}
Implementing SSO includes more than just technical setup. Adopting best practices ensures a smooth and secure integration:  

**Security Best Practices**
- Use Strong Authentication Methods: Ensure that your IdP supports strong authentication methods such as multi-factor authentication (MFA). MFA adds an extra layer of security, making it more difficult for attackers to gain unauthorized access.
- Regularly Update Certificates: Periodically update the public certificates used by your IdP to sign SSO responses. This ensures continued trust in the authentication process.
- Monitor for Suspicious Activities: Regularly monitor for suspicious login activities and take swift action if any anomalies are detected. This includes setting up alerts for unusual login patterns or failed login attempts.  

&nbsp;  

**User Experience Best Practices**
- Communicate with Users: Inform users about the new SSO system and provide clear instructions on how to use it. This helps in reducing confusion and ensures a smooth transition.
- Provide Support Resources: Offer support resources such as FAQs, user guides, and a helpdesk to assist users with any issues they might encounter during the SSO login process.
- Gather Feedback: Collect feedback from users to identify any issues or areas for improvement. Use this feedback to refine the SSO implementation and enhance the user experience.  

&nbsp;  

**Technical Best Practices**
- Regular Backups: Perform regular backups of your Magento store and SSO configuration settings. This ensures that you can quickly restore your system in case of any issues.
- Scalable Infrastructure: Ensure that your infrastructure can handle the increased load that may result from implementing SSO. This includes having adequate server resources and optimized database performance.
- Testing and Staging: Always test changes in a staging environment before deploying them to production. This helps in identifying and fixing any issues without affecting live users.


### Closing Notes {#closing-notes}

Implementing SSO in your Magento 2 store using the miniOrange SSO extension can highly improve user experience and enhance security. You can seamlessly provide your users with a convenient and secure way to access your store.
Give miniOrange Magento 2 SSO extension a try and see the difference it can make for your business.


### Additional Resources {#additional-resources}

- [Download and read more about Magento (Adobe Commerce) SSO extension](https://commercemarketplace.adobe.com/miniorange-inc-miniorange-oauth-sso.html)
- [Magento 2 SSO extension features and pricing plans](https://plugins.miniorange.com/magento-oauth-single-sign-on-sso#pricing)
- [Other Security Solution for your Magento Store](https://plugins.miniorange.com/magento-2-extensions)



Magento 2 SSO extension by miniOrange allows your frontend users (customers) as well as backend users (admins) to log in into your Magento store using Azure AD / Microsoft Entra ID, Azure AD B2C, Okta, Salesforce, Keycloak, Auth0, ADFS, and any other SAML and OAuth compliant Identity Provider (IDPs) credentials.

Implementing SSO on Adobe Commerce (Magento 2)


In the fast-paced world of e-commerce, staying connected with your customers is essential to ensure a successful online business. One of the most effective ways to keep your customers engaged and informed about their orders is through [SMS and WhatsApp notifications](https://plugins.miniorange.com/shopify-order-and-sms-notifications) on your Shopify store. These instant messaging platforms offer unparalleled convenience and immediacy, enabling you to deliver timely updates and promotions directly to your customers’ fingertips. In this blog, we will explore the benefits of utilizing SMS and WhatsApp notifications and how to implement them seamlessly into your Shopify store.

### The Power of SMS and WhatsApp Notifications {#The-Power-of-SMS-and-WhatsApp-Notifications}

**Real-Time Order Updates**

In the age of instant gratification, customers appreciate knowing the status of their orders in real-time. SMS and WhatsApp notifications allow you to send automated alerts at various stages of the order process, from confirmation and processing to shipping and delivery. This transparency builds trust and fosters a positive customer experience.

**High Open Rates**

Unlike emails that can get lost in crowded inboxes, SMS and WhatsApp notifications have significantly higher open rates. The chances of your message being seen and read are much higher, leading to increased customer engagement and quicker responses.

**Personalized Customer Communication**

SMS and WhatsApp notifications give you the opportunity to customize your messages, addressing customers by name and tailoring content based on their preferences. Personalization enhances the customer experience and helps you build lasting relationships.

**Reduced Cart Abandonment**

By sending timely reminders about abandoned shopping carts via SMS or WhatsApp, you can encourage customers to complete their purchases. These gentle nudges can make a significant impact on your conversion rates.

**Instant Promotions and Offers**

When you have time-sensitive promotions or flash sales, SMS and WhatsApp notifications are the ideal channels to get the word out quickly. This enables your customers to take advantage of exclusive deals before they expire.

### Implement SMS and WhatsApp Notifications on Your Shopify Store {#Implement-SMS-and-WhatsApp-Notifications-on-Your-Shopify-Store}

![sms-notifications-blog-channels-art](/blog/assets/2023/sms-notifications-blog-channels-art.webp)

Now that we understand the benefits of using SMS and WhatsApp notifications, let’s explore how to set up these features on your Shopify store:

**Choose a Trusted Messaging Service Provider**

Begin by selecting a reliable SMS and WhatsApp messaging service provider that integrates seamlessly with Shopify. Look for features such as automation, personalization, and analytics to make the most of your notifications.

**Obtain Customer Consent**

Before sending SMS and WhatsApp notifications, ensure that you have explicit consent from your customers. Add an opt-in checkbox during the checkout process, clearly explaining the purpose and frequency of the messages.

**Craft Clear and Concise Messages**

Keep your notifications brief and to the point. Include essential information such as order status, tracking links, and delivery dates. Avoid overwhelming your customers with excessive messages.

**Segment Your Audience**

Leverage customer data to segment your audience and send targeted messages. For example, you can tailor promotions based on purchase history or location to increase relevance.

**Monitor and Optimize Performance**

Regularly track the performance of your SMS and WhatsApp notifications. Analyze open rates, click-through rates, and conversion rates to identify areas for improvement.

![sms-notifications-blog-flowart](/blog/assets/2023/sms-notifications-blog-flowart.webp)

### Conclusion {#Conclusion}

Integrating SMS and WhatsApp notifications into your Shopify store can be a game-changer for customer engagement and retention. The real-time updates, personalized communication, and high open rates create a positive and dynamic shopping experience for your customers. Remember to follow best practices, obtain consent, and continually optimize your messaging strategy to maximize the benefits. By harnessing the power of these instant messaging platforms, you can elevate your Shopify store to new heights of success in the competitive e-commerce landscape.


Implement SMS &amp; WhatsApp notifications on Shopify. Real-time updates, high open rates &amp; personalized engagement.

Implement SMS and WhatsApp Notifications on Your Shopify Store


## SSO into Jenkins while managing users in Atlassian Crowd

From cell phones to tablets to watches, clients are depending more on the comfort of the versatile innovation of mobile phones because of its easy portability. 

Lately we have seen a huge expansion in the universality of cell phones among people across the globe. These gadgets empower people to introduce a huge collection of tools, known as “applications,” These applications are the quintessence of cell phones, improving their usefulness and upgrading their regular day to day usage. **The application markets permit clients to play out a fast pursuit with establishment of new applications, and yet, they are also a wellspring of various types of malware.** These days, cell phones are dependent upon a wide scope of safety challenges and malevolent dangers.

While adapting to the issue, the objective of this collaboration is to bring you a tad bit nearer to safety and security on mobile phones.

**INFOSYSTA**, the developers of [Mobile for Jira](https://marketplace.atlassian.com/apps/1214475/mobile-for-jira?tab=overview&hosting=cloud) and [JSmobile](https://marketplace.atlassian.com/apps/1219125/jsmobile-service-management-portal?hosting=cloud&tab=overview) are now integrating with **miniOrange’s [Two factor Authentication (2FA)](https://marketplace.atlassian.com/apps/1221260/mo-two-factor-authentication-2fa-for-jira?hosting=datacenter&tab=overview) for JIRA** in their solutions for smartphones.

### Why is Mobile Security a Necessity? {#why-is-mobile-security-a-necessity}

Below are the points why you actually need Mobile Security:
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; - Your private data is always protected: It safeguards your data whether it relates to personal, private or public life and ensures that it is under your control everytime. No one can access it without your authorization.
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; - Your device is protected against malwares: It reduces the chances of viruses and malwares.

### What is 2FA? And How does it work? {#what-is-2fa-and-how-does-it-work}

As found in a lot of news stories about hacks and information leaks, an unprotected password can help cybercriminals access your ledger, charge cards, or gain information on individual sites. 

In any case, the fight isn’t lost. One approach to rapidly support the security of your online records is two-factor authentication — called 2FA — which adds an additional layer of safety to your information.

2FA is a subset of multi-factor authentication. The concept of 2FA is that you need more than just a username and password set to login into an application and if you don’t provide the key to both the factors, authentication fails.

This second factor could emerge out of one of the classifications:

- **Something you know:** This could be a personal identification number (PIN), a password, answers to “secret questions.”
- **Something you have:** Typically, a user would have something in their possession, like a credit card, a smartphone, or a small hardware token.
- **Something you are:** This category is a little more advanced, and might include a biometric pattern of a fingerprint, an iris scan, or a voice print.

It guarantees that regardless of whether your password is exposed to anybody, or on the other hand if it’s stolen through phishing, they will not have the option to get to your information without going through the subsequent factor.  

&nbsp;&nbsp;

**Let’s have a look at the benefits of 2FA:**

- Further developed security: By requiring a second layer of verification, 2FA reduces the chances of getting the data or access under attacks. Regardless of whether a fraudster has access to a password he will not have the subsequent component needed to validate.

- Increase of usefulness and adaptability: Enterprises are accepting 2FA as it adds to a higher level of security. With versatile 2FA methods(SMS/OTP/QR codes), workers can safely get to corporate applications, information, records, and administrative center frameworks from any device or area without putting the corporate organization and data in danger.

![Atlassian Crowd and Jenkins integration](/blog/assets/2023/two-factor-authentication-integration-with-infosysta.webp)

### Our Integration {#miniorange-integration}

Realising the threats of cyberattacks, miniOrange developed **Two factor Authentication** to give applications one additional layer of security over just a password. A security which can only be verified by the person who’s information like mobile number or security questions has been set up. In our add-on, there are multiple ways in which you can set up 2FA on mobile phones.

The methods are as follows:
- Mobile Authenticator
- Yubikey Hardware Token
- OTP over Email
- Security Question
- Backup Codes: As the name suggests this authentication method acts as a backup when the passcode/OTP of the primary method is lost.

And to add to that, **Infosysta** is all set with their mobile applications; **Mobile for Jira and JSmobile** to help users for efficient work portability. 

**Infosysta** has now integrated **miniOrange’s Two Factor Authentication** with their Mobile for Jira and JSmobile applications, which are easy to install, configure and use.

With ease of moving from PCs to your mobile phone plus advanced security with 2FA comes together to give you a supportive system. 

miniOrange provides improved security with 2FA for mobile apps such as Mobile for Jira and JSMobile in collaboration with Infosysta. Infosysta has now integrated miniOrange’s Two Factor Authentication with their Mobile for Jira and JSmobile applications, which are easy to install, configure and use. With ease of moving from PCs to your mobile phone plus advanced security with 2FA comes together to give you a supportive system. 

Integration of Two Factor Authentication (2FA) with INFOSYSTA Mobile Apps

Recent years have witnessed the rise of cyber attacks on companies globally. Today’s businesses are faced with cyber threats like ransomware, phishing, brute force attacks, etc. and these attacks bring losses of millions of dollars! It has become a norm to opt for proper cyber insurance to protect your business from the losses caused by these threats, but it is of no use if you don’t have a proper security measure in hand. [Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)](https://www.miniorange.com/products/multi-factor-authentication-mfa) is a robust security measure that will add an extra layer of security to your systems and help you comply with many top cyber insurance policies.

### What is Cyber Insurance & why MFA is required for Cyber Insurance Policies? {#what-is-cyber-insurance-and-why-mfa-is-required-for-cyber-insurance-policies?}
Cyber insurance or cyber risk insurance is a policy that offers coverage for losses and damages resulting from cyber security incidents. Whether it’s investigating a breach, covering legal fees, or compensating for lost income, the cyber insurance policy can help businesses recover from a cyber attack. But what is a threat in cyber security, exactly? Simply put, it’s any potential danger that could compromise your sensitive data or systems.  

Here MFA acts as a robust security feature that adds an extra layer of security to your systems and keeps your data safe. MFA is becoming increasingly important in cyber insurance policies as more businesses move their operations online. The risks of cyber attacks are higher than ever, and cyber insurance policies without MFA may not provide enough protection. By including MFA in a cyber insurance policy, businesses can reduce their risk of cyber attacks, and insurance providers can offer more comprehensive coverage options.


### What are of Benefits of Using MFA with Cyber Insurance? {#-what-are-of-benefits-of-using-mfa-with-cyber-insurance?}
Here are some key points to consider when thinking about the benefits of implementing MFA along with cyber insurance:

- **Optimizes cost of cyber insurance premium:** Insurance providers view MFA as a crucial security measure that can help prevent data breaches, making businesses less risky to insure. By implementing MFA, businesses can potentially reduce their insurance premiums and save money in the long run.
- **Ensure Compliance:** Many cyber insurance providers require insurers to comply with some regulations & compliances. Implementing MFA can help businesses meet these requirements and be eligible for top insurance policies.
- **Prevent Security Breaches:** While cyber insurance can help cover the costs associated with a breach, it can’t prevent the breach from happening. By implementing MFA, an extra layer of security is added which prevents information security threats and cyber attacks like unauthorized access, ransomware, phishing, etc.  

![cyberinsurance-mfa-benefits](/blog/assets/2023/benefits-of-cyberinsurance.webp)
 

### Choosing the Right Cyber Insurance MFA Policy {#choosing-the-right-cyber-insurance-mfa-policy}
When choosing a cyber insurance policy with MFA, it’s important to consider the specific MFA techniques included in the policy. Biometric authentication, token-based authentication, and SMS-based authentication are all effective MFA techniques that can be included in a policy. Additionally, it’s important to consider how MFA can be used to secure both internal and remote access to company resources.

 

### The Role of Insurance Providers in Promoting MFA {#the-role-of-insurance-providers-in-promoting-mfa}
Insurance providers can play a crucial role in promoting MFA and helping businesses implement MFA techniques. By partnering with cybersecurity companies, insurance providers can offer MFA as part of their policies and provide businesses with the necessary tools and resources to implement MFA effectively.

 

### Understanding Cyber Insurance and Why It’s Important {#understanding-cyber-insurance-and-why-its-important}
While cyber insurance MFA can help secure your business against cyber attacks, it’s important to understand the basics of cyber insurance and why it’s important. Cyber insurance policies typically offer coverage for data breach response, business interruption, and cyber extortion, among other things. By having a cyber insurance policy in place, businesses can recover more quickly from cyber attacks and reduce their financial losses.  

Maintaining a low-risk score is essential for businesses seeking cyber insurance MFA policies. A low-risk score indicates that a business has effective cybersecurity measures in place, making them less vulnerable to cyber-attacks and therefore less likely to make a claim on their insurance policy. To maintain a low-risk score, businesses should implement MFA techniques, such as biometric authentication or token-based authentication, to secure their systems and resources. Additionally, regular security audits, employee training, and incident response planning can all contribute to maintaining a low-risk score and ultimately reduce the cost of cyber insurance policies.

 
 
### How miniOrange helps in Cyber Insurance MFA? {#how-miniorange-helps-in-cyber-insurance-mfa}
miniOrange MFA is a powerful solution for implementing multi-factor authentication to enhance cybersecurity measures. With miniOrange MFA, businesses can ensure that their systems and data are protected against unauthorized access, reducing the risk of cyber attacks.  

miniOrange MFA supports a wide range of network authentication methods, including SAML, OAuth, OIDC, JWT, and Radius, making it easy to integrate with existing systems. There are several types of MFA available, including something the user knows (such as a password or PIN), something the user has (such as a security token or a smartphone with a specific app installed), and something the user is (such as biometric data like a fingerprint or facial recognition). With miniOrange MFA, businesses can choose from [15+ second-factor authentication methods](https://www.miniorange.com/products/multi-factor-authentication-mfa-methods), such as OTP over SMS, OTP over Email, Out of band SMS, Google Authenticator, and Microsoft Authenticator.  

When it comes to cyber insurance policies, implementing effective MFA techniques is crucial for reducing the risk of cyber attacks and maintaining a low-risk score. VPN can provide protection but it is not enough to tackle modern cyber attacks. By implementing miniOrange VPN MFA, businesses can protect their remote access points, reducing the risk of cyber attacks and improving their chances of obtaining comprehensive cyber insurance coverage.

 

![miniorange-mfa-methods](/blog/assets/2023/miniorange-mfa-solution.webp)

 

### Conclusion {#conclusion}
In conclusion, incorporating MFA into a cyber insurance policy can significantly improve a business’s protection against cyber attacks. By utilizing effective MFA techniques, businesses can lower the risk of cyber incidents, safeguard their data and operations, and recover quickly from potential security breaches. miniOrange offers state-of-the-art MFA solutions and [Risk-Based Authentication](https://www.miniorange.com/solutions/risk-based-authentication-rba), enabling businesses to fulfill their cyber insurance requirements.  

If your cybersecurity insurance provider requires MFA, then miniOrange with its robust Access Control and Automated Account Management features can secure all services, including VPNs, cloud apps, and on-premises applications, and help you comply with all the regulations of your cyber insurance provider.

Safeguard your business against cyber threats with Cyber Insurance MFA. Learn how MFA can help protect your critical assets and reduce cyber attacks. Contact us today.

Everything You Need to Know About Cyber Insurance MFA for Business Protection


## **nopCommerce Store Login with SAML SSO: Boost Security and Convenience** {#nopComemrce store login with saml sso}

Managing multiple usernames and passwords across various platforms can be a daunting task. Each day, countless users struggle with remembering different usernames and passwords for various applications they use. This not only hampers productivity but also raises security concerns like the use of less complex credentials that are easy to hack.


Imagine if you only needed to remember one set of highly secure credentials to access all your essential applications and resources. This becomes possible with nopCommerce SAML Single Sign-On (SSO). 

Let’s dive into the details of nopCommerce SAML SSO, its benefits, and how it can improve your user experience and save you time.


### **What is nopCommerce SAML Single Sign-On (SSO)?** {#What is nopCommerce SAML SSO}

[nopCommerce SAML Single Sign-On (SSO)](https://plugins.miniorange.com/nopcommerce-saml-single-sign-on-sso) is a cloud security solution that provides a secure and efficient way to authenticate users on your nopCommerce application. By leveraging [SAML-compliant identity providers](https://plugins.miniorange.com/nopcommerce-saml-sso-setup-guides) such as Azure AD, ADFS, Office365, Okta, Google Apps, and Salesforce, this SSO solution ensures that your users can access multiple applications and websites with a single login. 


With SAML SSO for nopCommerce, you can enhance user experience, save time, boost productivity, and strengthen security across your organization. Whether you're a small business or a large enterprise, the SSO solution can make user authentication simpler and more secure than ever before. 

For organizations having multi-stores, the nopCommerce SSO solution lets you centralize user authentication, helping store admins to manage user more easily. SSO for nopCommerce Multi-Stores integrates with existing authentication systems, ensuring secure and efficient access management


### **Key Features that Make a Difference** {#Key Features}
   
**Single Sign-On**

Experience easy and seamless access to all your resources with nopCommerce SSO via any existing SAML 2.0 Identity Provider (IdP). No more juggling multiple logins—one credential set is all you need.


**Auto-Registration**

Automatically register new customers in your nopCommerce store following SSO login. No more manual updates and registrations, subsequently saving you time.


**Single Logout**  

Simplify session management with Single Logout. This feature allows users to log out from all server sessions established via SAML SSO by initiating a single log-out.

**Role Mapping**

Enhance security and resource management by mapping your Identity Provider roles to your nopCommerce application. Restrict access to specific roles, ensuring that only authorized users can access certain resources.

**Custom Certificate**
Increase security with the ability to add your own custom X.509 Certificate for sending signed requests and verifying signed responses.

**Federation Support**
Leverage Federation Support to enable users to Single Sign-On via their institution affiliated with InCommon Federation, enhancing collaboration and access management.


### **Use Case: Streamlined SSO for Multiple nopCommerce Stores** {#Use Cases}

One of the standout features of the **nopCommerce SAML Single Sign-On (SSO)** module is its ability to facilitate SSO across multiple nopCommerce stores, even when using different identity providers (IdPs) or multiple tenants. This capability is particularly beneficial for businesses that operate several online stores targeting different markets or customer segments.


**Scenario 1: Single Sign-On Across Multiple Stores with Different IDPs**

Consider a company that operates three distinct nopCommerce stores, each serving a different region—North America, Europe, and Asia. Each store uses a different identity provider for user authentication: Azure AD for the North American store, Office365 for the European store, and Google Apps for the Asian store. With our SSO module, users can seamlessly log into any of these stores using their region-specific credentials.

This setup not only simplifies the login process for users but also enhances security by ensuring that each store adheres to the identity management standards of its respective region. Employees and customers alike benefit from a streamlined experience, logging in once and gaining access to the resources they need, regardless of which store they are accessing.


**Scenario 2: Single Sign-On for Multiple Tenants**

Another powerful use case is SSO for multiple tenants within a single nopCommerce store. Imagine a university that uses nopCommerce to manage its online bookstore. The university comprises several colleges, each with its own set of users and identity providers. For instance, the College of Science uses Okta, while the College of Arts uses Salesforce.

With the nopCommerce SAML Single Sign-On (SSO) module, the university can configure the bookstore to accept SSO from both Okta and Salesforce. Students and faculty from either college can log into the bookstore with their respective credentials, gaining seamless access to the resources they need. This approach simplifies the user experience and ensures that each tenant's security requirements are met.


### **Ultimate SSO Solution for Your Business** {#Ultimate SSO solution for business}

[miniOrange SAML Single Sign-On (SSO) for nopCommerce](https://www.nopcommerce.com/en/saml-single-sign-on-sso-miniorange) integrates effortlessly with a variety of identity providers such as Azure AD, ADFS, Office365, Okta, Google Apps, and Salesforce. This integration extends beyond nopCommerce, enabling SSO into ASP.NET, DNN, Umbraco, ASP.NET Core, and more. With our module, users can securely authenticate across multiple platforms using a single set of credentials.


Don’t let complex authentication processes slow you down. Implement the miniOrange nopCommerce SAML Single Sign-On (SSO) solution and experience a seamless, secure, and efficient authentication process. Simplify access, enhance security, and improve user experience across all your platforms.

Contact us at [nopcommercesupport@xecurify.com](nopcommercesupport@xecurify.com) to learn more and get started with nopCommerce SAML Single Sign-On (SSO) today. Unlock the power of single sign-on and take your business to the next level!



## **Conclusion**

Integrating SAML SSO with nopCommerce can significantly enhance security, streamline user access, and simplify administrative tasks. By following best practices and leveraging the key features of SAML SSO, businesses can provide a secure and seamless authentication experience for their users. 


&nbsp;  



### **More Resources** {#more resources}
- [What is SAML? How does it work?](https://www.miniorange.com/what-is-saml)
- [nopCommerce OAuth Single Sign On (SSO)](https://plugins.miniorange.com/nopcommerce-oauth-single-sign-on-sso)
- [nopCommerce Two Factor Authentication (2FA)](https://plugins.miniorange.com/nopcommerce-two-factor-authentication-2fa) 
- [nopCommerce Workflow Automation](https://plugins.miniorange.com/nopcommerce-workflow-automation)


 Learn how to simplify user authentication with nopCommerce SAML SSO. Access all apps with one set of credentials, boosting productivity and security.

Simplify nopCommerce Access with SAML Single Sign-On (SSO)


[Okta Integration with Shopify](https://plugins.miniorange.com/shopify-scim-user-provisioning) with Okta as IDP & easily connect Okta & Shopify with any apps on the web. Securely SSO into Shopify applications inclusive of the Plus S`tores.

Okta is a platform in the Identity-as-a-Service (IDaaS) category, which means that it gives you and your colleagues or customers access to all other (company) software with a single set of login credentials. In this case, the SSO integration into Shopify allows your users to login to your store and access the storefront with Okta as their identity provider for authentication.

### What is Shopify SSO? {#what-is-shopify-sso}

miniOrange provides secure Single sign-on (SSO) access to your Shopify applications (both plus and non plus stores).Our SSO integration protocols includes Security Assertion Markup Language (SAML 2.0), Open Authorization (OAuth), OpenID Connect (OIDC) with supported IDPs like ADFS, Azure AD, Okta, Onelogin, AWS Cognito, GSuite/Google Apps etc with secured Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) feature.

We strongly recommend Multifactor Authentication (MFA) with SSO to improve security.

### How can miniOrange help in providing Okta Integration with Shopify with Okta as IDP? {#how-miniorange-help-in-okta-integration}

Okta SSO login for Shopify can be achieved by using our miniOrange Single Sign-On (SSO) Application. Our SSO application is compatible with all the SAML compliant Identity Providers and enables secure Okta Login into Shopify stores to perform Okta integration with Shopify

It acts as SAML SP (Service Provider) which can be configured to establish a trust between the application and IDP to securely authenticate and enable SSO / Login for the user into the Shopify stores. Now, you can integrate single sign-on functionality on your Shopify store using Okta as your IDP.

Let us understand this with an example:

Consider you have a Shopify store and your customers are stored in Okta, now you want a solution where the customers can login into your Shopify store using their Okta credentials and that’s where Shopify Single Sign-On comes into play. Using SSO you are delegating authentication, simply put, you hand over the responsibility of verifying a user’s credentials (such as username and password) to Okta. Now, you can get users logged in to your store without having to worry about the authentication process. In the SSO application, you can configure the “Login with Okta” widget on your Shopify store. And with just a single click Okta will be integrated with Shopify & all of your customers will be able to Single sign-on (SSO) into your Shopify store using their Okta credentials.

### Additional Benefits of Enabling Okta Shopify Single Sign-On (SSO) {#additonal-benefits-of-enabling-okta}

1. **Always On Single Sign-On**:Provides Unlimited User Authentications by Okta Shopify Integration with SSO login on Shopify store with Okta credentials.

&nbsp;

2. **Redirect URL**: Adding Redirect URL for switching users to a specific page of Shopify Store after SSO or leaving blank for bringing them back to the page where SSO is initiated.

&nbsp;

3. **Multiple IDPs**: Configure SSO support for multiple IDPs along with Okta and authenticate different types of users with different IDPs.

&nbsp;

4. **Widget Customization**: Customize the Okta login widget without writing a single line of code.

&nbsp;

5. **Risk Based Authentication**: Enhancing security to your Shopify Store access avoiding Fraud prevention based on IP, Device, Location and Time based rules.

### User-sync: Major Benefit of Okta Integration with Shopify SSO {#major-benefits-of-okta-integration}

User Provisioning is an Identity Access Management (IAM) process that involves the process of creating, updating and deleting a user’s account and access in multiple applications and systems at once. Need of provisioning arises when information is added or modified in a “original system database” (e.g. HR Portal, Institute Database). Hiring, promotions, transfers, are examples of events that can set off provisioning.

&nbsp;

Similarly, deprovisioning implies deleting a user and removing their access from multiple applications and network systems at once. Deprovisioning action is triggered when an employee leaves a company or switches roles within the organization. Deprovisioning removes individual accounts on file servers, authentication servers, such as Active Directory, which helps organization’s to free up disk space, ports, certificates and company issued computers for future use.

&nbsp;

minOrange SCIM User Sync application provides both of these provisioning and deprovisioning features.

&nbsp;

Let us try to visualize by an example. Consider, there are two shopify stores of an organization which have Okta as their IDP. Now, if a new employee joins this organization and his account is created on Okta. If you are using miniOrange SCIM User Sync application, then his account will be automatically created in the two shopify stores along with that they can be assigned a specific group/tag in store through which access can be given to specific areas of Shopify Storefront. This ensures employee’s access rights are up to date, without manual efforts. With Okta and Shopify Integration, he can perform SSO with his Okta credentials.

&nbsp;

If the employee leaves the organization and his okta account is deleted, then user sync functionality will automatically disable both of his shopify accounts. This will prevent him from accessing corporate resources on Shopify stores after he leaves the organization, thus improving security and confidentiality of the organization. This in turn secures the organisation’s applications and reduces administrative costs and time.

&nbsp;

In this way with SCIM Provisioning Deprovisioning Application you get the benefit of user provisioning and deprovisioning functionality.

&nbsp;

For more information, you can visit this step-by-step guide to setup Okta as an IDP in your Shopify store today!


Okta Integration with Shopify with Okta as IDP & easily connect Okta & Shopify with any apps on the web. Securely SSO into Shopify applications inclusive of the Plus Stores.

Okta integration with Shopify - Okta Shopify Single Sign-On (SSO)


### Q1. What is the miniOrange Oracle EBS SSO & MFA Solution? {# Q1}

**A.** miniOrange has a comprehensive SSO & MFA Solution for the world’s favorite ERP Software – Oracle E-Business Suite. Using miniOrange’s Single Sign-On and Multi Factor-Authentication, you can implement a high quality Identity and Access Management strategy for all your legacy applications.  

miniOrange’s Oracle EBS SSO & MFA Solution connects to your Oracle E-Business Suite instance and establishes trust with your existing identity source such as Microsoft Active Directory, Azure AD, Microsoft ADFS, Oracle DB, Okta or miniOrange IDP. Having this seamless configuration in place, your users can easily access their Oracle E-Business Suite accounts without having to enter their credentials, as miniOrange picks the relevant attributes from their existing Identity Provider session, to authenticate against the FND_USER table in your Oracle EBS Database.


### Q2.What are the different deployment options for this solution? {# Q2}

**A.** miniOrange’s Oracle EBS SSO & MFA Solution is available in two different deployment methods:

1. Cloud-Hybrid Model
2. On-Premise Model
3. Both of these deployment options include the complete suite of miniOrange’s features. The following table summarizes a few key offerings :

|Sr. No	| Cloud-Hybrid Model | On-Premise Model |
|-------|--------------------|------------------|
|1      | Supports miniOrange’s effortless “Pay-as-you-go” licensing method. | Supports miniOrange’s Yearly as well as Perpetual licensing methods.|
|2      | Lightweight connector installation, cloud is entirely managed by miniOrange. | Compliance friendly On-premises installation, zero cloud components involved.|
|3      | miniOrange’s Cloud is Load Balanced by default. | High Availability Setup is Supported free of charge.|
|4      | Supports Seamless Sign-On using miniOrange’s Integrated Windows Authentication module. | Supports Seamless Sign-On using miniOrange’s Integrated Windows Authentication module.|
|5      | Can be extended to support any number of Oracle/other applications. | Can be extended to support any number of Oracle/other applications.|
 

All-in-all, both deployment models come with their own set of convincing advantages. Contact us at idpsupport@xecurify.com to help you choose the right deployment model for your organization.  

### Q3. What does the solution architecture look like for both these deployment options? {# Q3}

**A.** miniOrange’s Oracle EBS SSO & MFA Solution can either be directly installed on the Apps Tier of your Oracle EBS instance, or on its own separate server with miniOrange’s Identity Server. Here’s an architecture diagram for both our deployment options –

#### **1. miniOrange Oracle EBS SSO & MFA – Cloud Hybrid Architecture 1**

![miniOrange Oracle EBS SSO Cloud Hybrid Architecture 1](/blog/assets/2023/cloud-hybrid-architecture-1.webp)  

#### **2. miniOrange Oracle EBS SSO & MFA – Cloud Hybrid Architecture 2**

![miniOrange Oracle EBS SSO Cloud Hybrid Architecture 2](/blog/assets/2023/cloud-hybrid-architecture-2.webp)  

#### **3. miniOrange Oracle EBS SSO & MFA – On-Premise Architecture**

![miniOrange Oracle EBS SSO On-premise Architecture](/blog/assets/2023/on-premise-architecture.webp)  

**Setup steps for miniOrange’s Oracle EBS SSO & MFA Solution : [Link](https://www.miniorange.com/oracle-ebs-single-sign-on-(sso))**

### Q4. Why should I choose miniOrange’s solution for Oracle EBS? {# Q4}

**A.** miniOrange has been recognized as an Oracle Partner under Oracle’s Global Modernized Oracle Partner Network (OPN) program. You can view our partner status in real time [here](https://partner-finder.oracle.com/catalog/Partner/SCPP-KMJAKXYX#profile-solutions).

miniOrange has also been recognized as a Microsoft Partner under the Microsoft Marketplace Partner program. This professional relationship with Oracle and Microsoft makes miniOrange one of the most sought SSO & MFA products, especially for SSO and MFA into Oracle Applications having users stored in Microsoft Active Directory or Azure Active Directory. This seamless integration on both ends makes miniOrange the undisputed market leader.

Oracle has also shown recognition for miniOrange by accepting the miniOrange Oracle EBS SSO & MFA Solution on their Cloud Marketplace. You can view this solution by visiting Oracle’s Cloud Marketplace [here](https://cloudmarketplace.oracle.com/marketplace/en_US/listing/111839538). 

miniOrange is the only Oracle EBS SSO Solution that has ever been accepted on Oracle Cloud Marketplace.

 

### Q5. What will my end user authentication flow look like? {# Q5}

**A.** Here is the end user authentication flow for SSO into Oracle Applications –

- Users will navigate to their bookmarked Oracle application URL (or a custom URL for the authentication method, depending on the application).
- The Oracle application will check if the user is authenticated (or not).
- If the user is authenticated, they will be granted access to the application. If not, they will be redirected to the login screen for your enterprise Identity Management solution; this will be handled by the miniOrange Oracle EBS SSO & MFA Solution, which communicates with your IdP (Identity Provider) via SAML/OpenID Connect/other SSO protocols.
- Users will enter their credentials at the Identity Provider login screen; the credentials for authentication can be decided by you, depending on which authentication system you’re using (Microsoft Active Directory, Azure AD, ADFS, any other Identity Provider, a third-party application/database like Oracle DB).
- Once they’ve been authenticated, the user will be redirected to the resource that they were initially trying to access.
- Once a user has already authenticated with your Identity Provider for one Oracle application, they won’t need to enter their credentials again for accessing another Oracle application, or any other application which can pick up the existing session of the user in the chosen identity source.###

&nbsp;  

&nbsp;

#### **More Resources:**  

1. [miniOrange’s Complete Suite of Oracle Solutions](https://www.miniorange.com/integrations/oracle-single-sign-on-sso)
2. [Steps to setup SSO into Oracle EBS](https://www.miniorange.com/oracle-ebs-single-sign-on-(sso))
3. [Oracle EBS – miniOrange – Azure AD SSO Blog](https://blog.miniorange.com/oracle-ebs-sso-integration-with-azure-ad/)

Setup SSO into Oracle EBS using miniOrange’s Oracle EBS SSO solution using any Identity Provider of your choice.

Cloud Hybrid & On-Premise Deployment Options for miniOrange’s Oracle EBS SSO & MFA Solution


SSO is an authentication and authorization process that enables a user to access multiple enterprise applications using a single set of login credentials (username and password). Simply put, SSO combines multiple application login screens into one, allowing you to submit credentials once and gain access to all applications without having to log in to each one individually. End users save time and effort by not having to sign in and out of a variety of web, on-premises, and cloud apps on a regular basis.

The simplicity of the [SSO login process on your LMS](https://plugins.miniorange.com/shopify-lms-integration) allows you to onboard students of any age. It saves time and resources that would otherwise be spent on IT helpdesk tickets related to account management.

Schools, colleges, and universities are the foundation of learning, growth, and development for young generations worldwide. They are vital institutions in civilized and developed societies, whether public or private.

These education providers have had to adapt to unexpected global events in recent years. Students of all ages have had to adapt to a learning environment that is unique to our generation. As a result, the technology used by these institutions must evolve with the times.

### How use Multi-Factor authentication (2FA) along with Single Sign-ON (SSO)? {#how-to-use-mfa-with-sso}
1. Firstly, the user navigates to the LMS application login page. For instance www.example.com/login. Users will be able to see the login with the Shopify button. When users click on it they will be redirected to the Shopify login page.
2. The user enters a username and password that they use to login into Shopify. The credentials are validated against the Shopify store. This is the first factor of authentication.
3. The site then prompts the user for two-factor authentication E.g Pop up asking for OTP sent over SMS /Email or push notification.
4. Once users validate their identity against the 2nd-factor method they choose, then they are granted access to the LMS application

### What is the purpose of Shopify CRM/LMS Integration? {#purpose-of-shopify-crm}
Starting an online store has never been simpler than with Shopify. LMS is a global leader in website creation, publishing, and management. The integration of Shopify LMS provides you with out-of-the-box functionality. Your learning management system (LMS) can greatly expand your training program’s reach, speed, and effectiveness with this integration. With a secure connector in place, integration with that existing software allows your new LMS to be fully populated with all your learner details in minutes, rather than hours, days, or weeks. With just a click your Shopify store can be integrated into any LMS platform. It’s a fantastic opportunity for those looking to break into the larger LMS Platforms to increase their productivity.

![](/blog/assets/2023/sso-integration-in-lms-shopify.webp)

**Take Your Store to the Next Level**
An LMS integration can take your Shopify store to the next level and help you attract more potential customers to your site by providing layout options, rich media embeds, comment capabilities, and Previous/Next post navigation. If you have a catalog of existing content created on another LMS that you want to display on Shopify, miniOrange can assist you with that, or if you want to integrate a new LMS with your store for added features and functionality.

**Upsell or highlight your featured collection on the Shopify login page whenever a user tries to SSO into your LMS platform using Shopify**
You can easily highlight your signature products on the Shopify Login page such that whenever a user is redirected to Shopify for login into LMS he will be able to see your highlighted collection of products. Since he is already logged into Shopify he can easily make a quick purchase and head over to the connected LMS platform right after that.

### Why Should You Implement Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) in your LMS site? {#why-to-implement-mfa}
Suppose you have a Shopify store where you sell your LMS educational and teaching courses, video lectures, and other such things. Whenever any customers buy any course in your Shopify store, they will be able to access the same course on your LMS site through the miniOrange SCIM provisioning application. 

Assume a customer logs in to the store with his username and password and purchases any course. Consider the following scenario: a user shares his LMS site account credentials with friends in order for them to access the course on your LMS. As a store owner, you want to discourage people from sharing their login credentials and prevent multiple people from using the same login credential to access the same account at the same time.

Using MFA on your LMS site, you can simply deny a user access if their location information does not match what is specified on a whitelist, or it can be used as an additional form of authentication alongside other factors such as a password or OTP to confirm that user’s identity.

### Benefits of enabling Multi-factor authentication after successful SSO into your LMS {#benefits-of-enabling-mfa}

1. Enhanced Security: The implementation of Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), which adds an extra layer of security, reduces the chances of an attacker impersonating a user and getting access to the system also no one apart from that user will be able to access the course so it will increase your sales and prevent users from sharing the courses
2. Fraud Prevention: MFA adds an additional layer of protection by ensuring that everyone who is doing Single Sign-on to the LMS using the credentials they use for the Shopify store is who they say they are, and preventing unwanted access.
3. Increased Productivity and Flexibility: Employees can securely access gated content and resources in LMS from almost any device or location, without interfering with the company’s network.
4. Improved User Trust: Users can protect their personal information using multi factor authentication (MFA) without exerting additional effort
5. Reduced Management Cost: If you use MFA, you’ll notice less suspicious behavior on client accounts and spend less money on security management as a result.
6. Adaptive Authentication: Adaptive Authentication (Risk-Based Authentication), an advanced form of Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is a process of selecting the right authentication factors depending on a user’s risk profile defined and tends to adapt the type of authorization factors.
7. Adaptability For Different Use Cases: Extra precautions must be taken when dealing with sensitive data. The adaptive MFA evaluates risk based on contextual factors such as geolocation, IP address, and time since the last login.

### Top Use Cases {#top-use-cases}
1. **Shopify LMS SSO** : Shopify Store as an IDP application allows users to sign in to your LMS such as ClassLink, Clever, Canvas, docebo, thinkific, or Google Classroom using the credentials they use for Shopify Store. This simplifies ‌the login process and unifies accounts into one directory, making it easier for both you and your clients. Also, you can add an extra layer of protection to your LMS by challenging users to a second-factor authentication such as OTP over SMS, TOTP token, OTP over Email, Hardware tokens, etc. after successfully performing Single Sign-On (SSO) process.
2. **SSO with role-based access** : Besides SSO, this application also allows users to log in to ClassLink, Clever, Canvas, docebo, thinkific, and Google Classroom using Shopify store credentials, which can ‌determine the level of access a particular user gets based on the tags assigned in the Shopify store. For Example, teachers can set courses and assign homework assignments, while students can get read-only access to courses and submit their assignments for evaluation.

### Further Reading {#further-reading}
[LMS Shopify Integration](https://plugins.miniorange.com/shopify-lms-integration)  
[Adaptive multi-factor authentication](https://www.miniorange.com/adaptive-multi-factor-authentication-mfa)  
[Securing VPN with MFA](https://blog.miniorange.com/secure-vpn-with-multi-factor-authentication/)  

Shopify LMS integration allows organizations to sell online courses using the Shopify storefront. Enable MFA over your LMS site. Shopify SSO for LMS site.

Shopify and LMS integration | Enable MFA for your LMS site


Virtual Private Network allows you to connect one or more computers to a private network most of the time via the internet. It allows you to surf safely on a public wifi network, and also helps prevent Man-In-The-Middle attacks. Even though this approach is not new, in recent years this has become more relevant mainly due to the new trends in the way companies work & more people want a greater level of online privacy.

VPN tunneling ensures secure communication between systems. As the connection is encrypted, no one along the VPN tunnel can intercept, monitor, or alter your communications.

 
### What is a secure VPN? {#what-is-a-secure-vpn}

A **secure VPN**offers several advantages, particularly for those who respect their online privacy and wish to limit their digital exposure. Whether utilized by mainstream enterprises or cyber-criminal activities, a secure VPN connection does not compromise on the crucial criteria that keep invasive use of technology at bay. The increase in Virtual Private Network service providers reflects the market’s explosive growth. With online transactions and a virtual lifestyle becoming more common these days, a reliable VPN service is an important part of our digital era.

Secure VPN can **hide your IP address** and **encrypt your browsing history**, and it’s increasingly being used to avoid government surveillance. In some scenarios, VPNs may not be enough to keep you safe.

A secure VPN connection must employ the strongest encryption quality possible to be really safe. It must have a variety of security methods to secure your data’s confidentiality. These protocols ensure that unauthorized parties cannot get access to the connection and that the data you send and receive is secure. If you’re considering several secure VPNs, be sure the one you pick protects you against IP address leaks. It’s also a good indicator if it features an **Internet kill-switch**, which stops specific apps immediately if your connection goes down. This automatic function can help you avoid data leaks that could expose sensitive information.

**Furthermore, if the VPN app of your choice offers two-factor authentication, then you may have found a winner.**

### Benefits of a Secure VPN and why do you need one? {#benefits-of-a-secure-vpn-and-why-do-you-need-one}

Using a Virtual Private Network has multiple benefits, and this is why everyone should use one. Here are a few of the most important ones:

**1. Security:**
Because a secure VPN encrypts your connection, your data flow is protected even if the network you connect to has insufficient security. A secure VPN disables harmful websites, malware, trackers, and adverts, so you won’t infect your device even if you take a wrong turn online.

**2. Privacy:**
When you browse the internet, you leave a trail of your device type, location, IP address, and browsing history. You can restore your privacy with the aid of a private VPN. It encrypts your internet connection so that no one can listen in on the websites you view or the information you share. It also masks your IP address and location, making it impossible for snoopers to find you.

**3. Prevent ISP tracking:**
Your internet service provider (ISP) monitors your online behavior and may share this information with advertising, government agencies, and other third parties without your knowledge or agreement. They do this for a variety of reasons, not all of which are malicious, but it is still an invasion of privacy.

ISP tracking may be blocked using a secure VPN connection, preventing them from accessing your passwords, social media data, or physical location.

**4. Working remotely:**
If you work in any type of corporate office, you will almost certainly be required to connect to an internal or local area network (LAN). When a large number of individuals, whose jobs allow it, are working from home. A secure virtual private network allows you to connect to the workplace network and work remotely. You have access to any private material that would normally be available exclusively in the office. While traveling to and from your house, the data is encrypted.

**5. Avoid Data Throttling:**
When you’ve used up all of your allotted data and your internet service provider (ISP) decides to slow down your connection, this is known as data throttling. If you use a secure VPN, you’ll quickly discover that one of the benefits of a virtual network is the ability to evade data caps, especially since neither your ISP can see how much data you use. This might be especially beneficial for employees who must utilize data plans on their mobile devices to access the internet while on the road.

**6. Preventing pricing discrimination:**
Price discrimination is the practice of charging varying prices for the same goods or service depending on your location, how you regularly use and purchase on the platform, and your online purchasing habits. Offline, price discrimination has long existed, but automated algorithms now allow for dynamic pricing online as well. A secure VPN can protect you from being duped and being charged more because of your internet surfing and shopping habits, as well as assumptions about your socioeconomic standing based on your IP address.

### What are its vulnerabilities? {#what-are-its-vulnerabilities}

It is said that no software is immune to vulnerabilities. Ordinarily when you connect to any website from your computer then that website can see your IP address but when you are using a virtual private server, your data is not directly sent to the website you are visiting instead your IP address is first sent to one of the VPN servers. So the website you are visiting does not see your IP address, they see the IP address of the VPN server. It means no one sees your IP address, not your internet service provider, the government, or hackers so you become untraceable. No one can trace back to you. In short, the whole idea of achieving the web security of you and your organization using a VPN is keeping your IP address hidden.

Though this was not good news such vulnerabilities occur every time in the cyber world. What’s important is how we identify and tackle such things.

**Some VPN providers embrace your data**

While it is also important that VPN provider should maintain full transparency because it is found that some VPN providers also hold onto your data. Most of the VPN providers claim that they do not maintain a log of your online session neither they maintain the logs for your IP addresses or servers used, websites visited or files downloaded but “no log” claim differ from one VPN provider to another.

**There’s malware detected in certain VPN mobile apps**

One study also found that some VPN mobile apps do have malware in it. This study was conducted by the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization and they found that 38% of VPN android apps were infected by some type of malware.
Also, some mobile apps requested access to sensitive personal data such as account details and messaging.

**Cloud VPN is more vulnerable**

Today cloud technologies have given a huge amount of collaboration and convenience to the organizations but it has also brought security challenges for them. While using Cloud VPN solutions companies exposes themselves and due to this, any hacker can gain access to their private data.

**Credentials phishing**

Credentials phishing is one rapidly growing attack in the cyber world, where a hacker steals credentials such as userID and password. Hacker displays himself as an authority and by the means of email or any communication channel he gets to know your credentials. If a hacker gets the credentials he can use it to get the sensitive info out.

### How Multi-factor Authentication helps to secure VPN? {#how-multi-factor-authentication-helps-to-secure-vpn}

Multi-factor authentication validates user identity with passwords and an additional layer of security (e.g. OTP over SMS/Email). That is why it is called multi-factor authentication. This provides greater identity assurance for a user who is accessing any resource via VPN. So with multi-factor enabled on your system, it prevents the hacker from accessing the resources even if they know your username and password. As you have an additional layer of authentication, a hacker has to pass that layer which is not possible. However, we need to understand that not all MFA are the same and provide greater assurance of security. Many MFA solutions are slow or complicated and therefore inefficient.

miniOrange can be of great value here by providing [Two-Factor Authentication](https://www.miniorange.com/products/two-factor-authentication-(2fa)) on top of VPN security. This secures the access to protected resources instead of relying on only the VPN username/password.

miniOrange uses the [Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service (RADIUS)](https://www.miniorange.com/blog/radius-server-authentication/) protocol. Communication between the client and RADIUS server is authenticated and a shared secret is used, which is never sent over the network.

![Radius Server Authentication Flow](/blog/assets/2023/radius-server-flow.webp)

Here the RADIUS client is nothing but the VPN. If you take a look at the steps then you can get an idea of how Two-Factor authentication is used with a VPN.

- The user enters the login credentials to the VPN.
- RADIUS Clients send the login details to the miniOrange RADIUS server.
- User details are checked with Active Directory.
- When the AD finds the user it sends the response to the miniOrange RADIUS server. First-factor authentication is completed here.
- A challenge response is sent to RADIUS clients for second Factor Authentication.
- RADIUS client prompts the user with a 2FA challenge. (e.g.OTP over SMS/Email).
- When the user validates himself with 2FA. The authentication response is sent to the miniOrange RADIUS server.
- After checking the response, the RADIUS server grants access to the user.


This way miniOrange ensures that no unauthorized person gets access to the VPN. miniOrange acts as a RADIUS server that takes the username/password from the user and validates it with Active Directory (AD). After checking with the AD it prompts the user for Two-Factor authentication. If the user successfully completes the 2FA then the server grants the access.

### Conclusion {#conclusion}

These days organizations have become fully aware of the use of Multi-Factor Authentication for an extra layer of security along with VPN. Unauthorized access to your VPN is likely to cause more harm to the business. Multi-factor authentication plays a key role in securing your network, data & resources.

miniOrange has succeeded in dealing with Identity and access management problems and we ensure you have safe and secure access to your resources. Our 2-FA authentication adds a 2nd layer of security when you are gaining access to protected resources through a Virtual Private Network.

### Further Reading {#further-reading}

- [Multi-Factor Authentication](https://blog.miniorange.com/what-is-multi-factor-authentication-mfa/)
- [VPN Security](https://blog.miniorange.com/vpn-security-how-2fa-helps-to-secure-your-vpn/)
- [2FA solution for VPN](https://www.miniorange.com/iam/solutions/vpn-mfa-multi-factor-authentication)

A secure VPN offers several advantages for those who want online privacy and wish to limit their digital exposure. miniOrange can provide MFA on top of VPN for more security.

Secure VPN with Multi-Factor Authentication


Your accounts are protected with a password but it might not always be secure. Let’s say you are out with your family and your kid wants to buy a toy and you hand in your credit card to pay for it but it keeps getting declined. You are sure that you have enough balance in it to pay for it, but when you check your bank statement it shows it’s in negative and all your negative thoughts end up coming true.

This means that you have been hacked.

Similar issues might happen with your Jira as well. Hackers out there are always ready to pounce on weak passwords, vulnerabilities or leaks in data. This will lead to the possible revealing of your confidential company data. 

What can you do about it?

Well, don’t worry! You can add an extra layer of security with two-factor authentication.

&nbsp;&nbsp;  

**Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)**, also called two-step verification, is a security process in which a user has to pass two different authentication checks to gain access to their account. It helps you prohibit unauthorized access to your application.

To know more about protecting your Atlassian cloud applications check out our previous blog:-
[How to secure Atlassian cloud applications](https://community.atlassian.com/t5/Atlassian-Access-articles/How-to-secure-Atlassian-Cloud-Applications/ba-p/1728600)

[Enable 2FA on Jira for your Customers and skip 2FA for Employees!](https://community.atlassian.com/t5/Jira-articles/Enable-2FA-on-Jira-for-your-Customers-and-skip-2FA-for-Employees/ba-p/1719062)

As 2FA functionality is not already provided in Atlassian Server and Data Center, you can use miniOrange 2FA plugins to enable the 2nd factor of authentication and strengthen access to your Jira accounts. 

Our miniOrange plugin provides you with various 2FA authentication methods like OTP over email, OTP over SMS, Google authenticator, Security questions, Yubikey hardware token, etc.

### OTP over SMS/ Email {#otp-over-email}

OTP (One Time Password) is the most famous & convenient validation technique used by a large number of organizations for two-factor authentication. The OTPs are short-lived and are shared with the user at the time of login. That makes it impossible for the hackers to get access to accounts even if they have user’s credentials.

In the SMS OTP validation technique, an OTP is sent to the user’s mobile phone via SMS. The user has to enter it during the 2FA verification step and the user gets application access only if the OTP is correct. 

We also provide the feature of OTP over Email. Here, the OTP is shipped off to the users on their registered email address. When a user attempts to log in to any device, the server sends an email to their registered company email address with the OTP. The user can then use this OTP to log in.

### Advantages of OTP over SMS and Email {#advantages-of-otp-over-sms-email}

- **Low cost & Ready rollout:**

Since mobile phones and email are readily available to everyone, the cost of implementing OTP over SMS and OTP over Email is very low as one doesn’t need anything extra. (If you use hardware tokens as a 2FA method then each user will need a dedicated hardware device)

- **Easy to use (No setup & no instructions):**

Execution of on-demand OTP delivery techniques is moderately easy for organizations. For instance, with SMS delivery, users don’t have to do any kind of setup and don’t need any extra applications, like authenticator apps, to be installed on their device. They just demand a code which they use at login. 

- **No Shared Secret to Crack:**

On-request OTPs are simply arbitrary numbers sent by the server at the time of login, so there’s no shared secret to be taken advantage of.

&nbsp;&nbsp;  

Reach out to us at **support-atlassian@miniorange.atlassian.net** or raise a support ticket by [clicking here.](https://miniorange.atlassian.net/servicedesk/customer/portal/2)

Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security to your Jira account by requiring a one-time code (OTP) in addition to your password. To enable 2FA on Jira using OTP over SMS or email, miniOrange provides add-on for Atlassian Jira. 2FA benefits include increased security, reduced risk of data breaches, and compliance with regulations.

Secure your Jira with 2FA (OTP over SMS/ Email)


## The Power of Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Protecting Your Digital Assets {#the-power-of-two-factor-authentication}

&nbsp;

Gone are, if not yet, then will be, the days when a single password was all that you needed to access your accounts. With our lives becoming more reliant on digitalization by the day, be it shopping and consuming media to working and banking, everything being done via a smartphone, tablet, or laptop it’s no wonder that our online accounts become a magnet for crooks.

&nbsp;

Regular news of cyberattacks against individuals, corporations, and even governments is getting more and more prominent by the day. Data breaches, account hacking, ransomware, cyber extortion, identity fraud, etc. the rise in such cybercrimes propels companies to come up with new security measures and protocols.

&nbsp;

That brings us to the buzz around Two-Factor Authentication. In this blog post, we are going to discuss everything there’s to know about it, what it is, why it’s important, types, and software solutions to implement 2FA. Read on…



### What Is 2FA {#what-is-2fa}

&nbsp;

The login process conducted with a password-only approach is a very vulnerable method as fraudsters are able to quickly hack passwords, especially if they are simple (e.g., date of birth, name), and gain access to accounts. 2FA minimizes the risk of the password-only approach and therefore protects consumers from fraud such as identity theft.

&nbsp;

To break it down, 2FA verifies your identity using two distinct factors from different categories, such as knowledge (password) and possession (code sent to your phone). Let's say you're logging into your email account – you'd enter your password (knowledge factor) and then receive a code on your phone (possession factor) that you must enter as well. That's 2FA in a nutshell!

&nbsp;

2FA has become an industry standard, employed across sectors like finance, technology, and e-commerce, to safeguard user data and thwart unauthorized access. Whether this approach really offers enough protection and security is something that we need to figure out as we take a look at the different types of Two-Factor Authentication and the way it can provide different levels of protection.

### Primary Factors Involved in 2FA {#primary-factors-involved-in-2fa}

When it comes to Two-Factor Authentication, there are three primary factors involved: something you know, something you have, and something you are.

&nbsp;

**Something You Know:** This factor refers to information that only the user should know, such as a password, PIN, or a secret answer to a security question.

&nbsp;

**Something You Have:** This factor involves possession of a physical item or a unique code that only the user possesses. It can be a mobile device, a hardware token, a smart card, or a one-time password (OTP) generated by an authentication app on your phone.

&nbsp;

**Something You Are:** This factor is based on biometric characteristics unique to an individual, such as fingerprints, facial recognition, iris patterns, or voice recognition.

&nbsp;
Combining two or more of these factors in the authentication process significantly enhances security by mitigating the risks associated with relying solely on passwords or single-factor authentication.

&nbsp;

It's worth noting that the choice of factors in 2FA can vary depending on the system or service being used. Some platforms may offer a choice between different factors to accommodate user preferences and the level of security required.

&nbsp;&nbsp;

### Authentication Methods of 2FA {#authentication-methods-of-2fa}

Various forms of Two-Factor Authentication are currently employed,with varying levels of strength and complexity. Nevertheless, all of them provide enhanced security compared to relying solely on passwords. The most common types of 2FA are:

&nbsp;


**Hardware Tokens**
Hardware token 2FA is a formidable security measure that bolsters the protection of online accounts. In contrast to software tokens (we get to it in a bit), hardware tokens are tangible devices, often resembling key fobs or smart cards, that generate one-time passwords (OTPs) or PINs. When users attempt to log in, they initially provide their username and password as the first factor. Subsequently, they input the OTP or PIN generated by their hardware token as the second factor. These tokens come pre-programmed with a shared secret and a synchronized algorithm, ensuring precise and secure OTP generation.

&nbsp;


Hardware token 2FA enhances account security by introducing a robust layer of protection, requiring both something users know (a password) and something they have (the physical hardware token) for access. This dual-factor approach substantially increases the difficulty of unauthorized access, making it a formidable choice for bolstering online security. 

&nbsp;

An example would be Yubikey, a small hardware token that enhances online security through 2FA, requiring both a password and the physical Yubikey for access. It supports various authentication protocols like FIDO2 and U2F, providing robust protection for accounts and systems.

**Software Token (TOTP)**

&nbsp;

Software token 2FA is a security method that strengthens online account protection by introducing a second layer of authentication. Beyond the standard username and password, users employ a software token, typically in the form of a mobile app like Google or Microsoft Authenticator. This app generates time-based one-time passwords (TOTPs) that change at regular intervals, often every 30 seconds.

&nbsp;

When logging in, users input their username and password as the initial factor, followed by the TOTP from the app as the second factor. The TOTP is generated using a shared secret key and a synchronized algorithm, ensuring security. This method significantly enhances account security by requiring something users know (password) and something they have (the software token) for access, making it much more challenging for unauthorized individuals to breach accounts.

**Push Notification**

&nbsp;

A modern and user-friendly approach to enhancing online security. When a user attempts to log in, instead of manually entering a time-based code, they receive a push notification on their registered mobile device from the authentication service or app. This notification typically includes details of the login attempt, such as location and device information. Users can simply approve or deny the login request directly from the notification, making the process quick and convenient.

&nbsp;

Push notification 2FA adds a second layer of security because even if an attacker has the user's password, they will still need physical access to the user's registered device to authorize the login. This approach is user-friendly and provides robust security for online accounts, making it increasingly popular for services and applications aiming to balance security with usability. 

&nbsp;


**SMS Text-Message**

&nbsp;

Think about logging into your cherished online shopping site, anticipation fills the air. As you input your username and password, a prompt for SMS Two-Factor Authentication catches your eye. Curiosity piques your interest, leading you to proceed. In mere seconds, your phone rings with a familiar chime, bearing a text message carrying a unique security code. As you input this code on the website, a comforting sense of reassurance washes over you. The beauty of SMS 2FA lies in its simplicity. It effortlessly dispatches a confirmation code to your mobile device, eliminating the need for additional apps or hardware.

&nbsp;

Just enter the code, and your access is granted—no fuss, no time wasted. Nevertheless, there are certain considerations to bear in mind. SMS 2FA entails divulging your phone number to a third-party, the 2FA provider. While widely accepted for security, this disclosure may spark concerns regarding privacy, personal security, and the potential for targeted advertising. It is essential to carefully evaluate these factors and make an informed decision.

&nbsp;


**WebAuthn**

&nbsp;

WebAuthn is a secure solution that transforms online registration and authentication using powerful cryptography. Created by the FIDO Alliance and W3C, WebAuthn offers convenience with supported web browsers, operating systems, and authentication methods like fingerprints, security keys, or PINs. It provides a phish-proof way to log in and eliminates the need for shared passwords.

&nbsp;

Security is a major advantage of WebAuthn. It's one of the most secure 2FA methods available, allowing web applications to trust strong biometric authentication as a unique credential. However, WebAuthn has drawbacks. Account recovery can be complex due to its ties to a specific device. It would be better to have an alternative authentication method as a backup in case of losing access to the WebAuthn authenticator.


### miniOrange At Work {#miniorange-at-work}
If you are considering 2FA, we invite you to experience the power of miniOrange's user-friendly Two/Multi-factor authentication, designed to fortify the security of your Atlassian applications, be it Jira, Bitbucket, Confluence, Bamboo, or Crowd, our solution goes beyond mere password verification, adding an extra layer of protection by reconfirming the user's identity. 

&nbsp;


With miniOrange, you can rest assured that only the right individuals gain access to your valuable and sensitive information, ensuring your data remains safeguarded and that’s not just for Atlassian but also for Jenkins, Wordpress, Drupal, Joomla, etc.

&nbsp;

### Last But Not the Least {#last-but-not-the-least}

In this article, we've explored the significance of 2FA or Two-Factor Authentication, recognizing its pivotal role in enhancing security. While we've touched upon the concept and the various forms it can take, our journey into the intricate workings and the extensive benefits of 2FA is far from over. Stay tuned for our upcoming article, where we'll delve deeper into how 2FA operates and the manifold advantages it brings to the table, equipping you with the knowledge to make informed choices in safeguarding your digital world.

&nbsp;


So, why wait? Reach us at **+1 978 658 9387** for a demo or email your queries to **support-atlassian@miniorange.atlassian.net**, we would be glad to take it forward from there.





In this first part of the article on 'Two-Factor Authentication' (2FA), we focus on introducing the concept and exploring various methods employed to enhance digital security. 2FA is a crucial layer of defense against unauthorized access, requiring users to provide two different authentication factors before granting access to an account or system. Let's begin!

The Power of Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Protecting Your Digital Assets


### What is a Session? {#What-is-a-Session}

Let’s first understand how a web application or website like [Shopify Store handles user access](https://plugins.miniorange.com/session-management-for-shopify). Generally, there are three layers of security mechanisms:

- Authentication
- Session management
- Access control

Using these mechanisms the Store makes the user communicate with the server so that the communication is secured and no attacker can trap the communication. When a user/customer signs in to a store, the server does not know who the person behind the system is. To solve this problem the server creates a session for that user and that session is used across several web pages. The server also creates sessions to keep track of anonymous users after their very first request.

### Session management in Shopify {#Session-management-in-Shopify}

In Shopify, once the session has been established a session id is generated and is sent to the user browser. To maintain the authenticated state and to keep track of the user’s progress, Shopify provides users with a unique session identifier during the creation of the session and is shared between the users and application until the session is terminated. An attacker or hacker can attempt to launch an attack on the active session and hijack them, so it is mandatory to set expiration timeouts for every session. **The shorter the session interval is, the lesser the time an attacker has to use the valid session ID.**

If the user logs out from the Store or doesn’t use the Store for some desired time then the session will be dead. A common scenario when the user state changes from authenticated to unauthenticated include password change, permission changes, etc. if that happens then the old session id must be terminated, and a new session id will be used for all further requests made to the Store application.

**If you are logged in to your Store admin on a device, sessions from that device aren’t counted as online store sessions.**

### Why do we need Adaptive Authentication? {#Why-do-we-need-Adaptive-Authentication}

When session management and user authentication are not configured correctly, attackers may be able to gain access to users’ accounts by compromising passwords and assuming their identities. Many development frameworks offer tools for secure implementation of session management, but there are weaknesses in any of these solutions. By implementing adaptive authentication we can remove this hassle. Adaptive authentication provides an additional layer of multi-factor authentication security based on risk and access provided by security administrators.

### What is Adaptive Authentication? {#What-is-Adaptive-Authentication}

Adaptive authentication is a type of multi-factor authentication that is a process of selecting the right authentication factors depending on a user’s risk profile defined and tends to adapt the type of authorization factors.

Adaptive MFA authentication prompts for Multi-Authentication counting on the behavior, device IP, Geo-Location of the user which directly improves security level to the very best.

### Adaptive Authentication in Shopify {#Adaptive-Authentication-in-Shopify}

When a user decides to sign in to a store, the security component is increased by activating an authentication step or by creating real-time Multi-Factor Authentication automatically when improper authentication is found or by detecting fraud. The authentication risk is checked without users being aware of it and multi-factor authentication (MFA) is applied only if the associated risk is high.

![adaptive-authentication](/blog/assets/2023/adaptive-authentication.webp)

Adaptive authentication adapts to the risk level and presents an appropriate level of authentication regardless of your corporate risk levels. Adaptive Authentication solutions can strengthen the authentication methods based on a wide variety of factors including:

- Source IP address
- Time of day
- Geo-location (physical location)
- Entity type (device type)
- Content-Based

Each time a user tries to Sign in to the Store, the request is evaluated and assigned a risk score. Depending on the risk score, the user may be required to provide additional authentication factors to prove the identity. For example, if a user tries to access Store via multiple devices, they may be asked to sign out from other devices. If the user tries to log in from a geographical location other than their office, they may have to verify their identity by answering a security question.

### Session Management and Adaptive Authentication Use Cases {#Session-Management-and-Adaptive-Authentication}

**Terminate user session and restrict Customer to one login at a time**

You are using Shopify to sell streaming videos that can only be accessed after purchasing the subscription. Suppose a shopper login to the store using his username and password and purchase products from the store. Consider a scenario where the user shares his account credentials with their friends so that they can access the store. Being a store owner you would like to discourage people from sharing their login credentials and prevent multiple people from using the same login credential at the same time to access the same account. You would like to restrict customer account to only being able to log in from one device at a time.

Assume the customer is already logged in from one device. When some other user tries to log in using the same credentials from another device then you would like to do one of the following:

- Either the App will prompt to log out from the first device and the app will not allow login from the second device until the user successfully logs out from the first device.

- The app will terminate the session on the first device without indicating anything to the user and will log the user in from the second device by creating a new session

You can use the miniOrange app on the Shopify store for restricting the number of users that are allowed to access the store using the same account credentials and at the same time.

In practice it will look like this: When ‘Device A’ login to the store, a session is established, and if ‘Device B’ calls the login function and log in using the same credentials as that of ‘Device A’ then this will revoke all sessions and invalidate ‘Device A’ and will log the user in from ‘Device B’ with a different session.

&nbsp;

**App that locks down the account to one location at a time**

You are an owner of a Shopify store where you sell car accessories.

Customers from all over the world are ordering the products from your store but you are able to ship the products only to some countries. You don’t want customers from other countries to access your Shopify store as you can’t deliver over there.

![location-restriction](/blog/assets/2023/location-restriction.webp)

You can use location-based adaptive restriction, then the admin will select the list of countries from where they don’t want the end-users to login. during the login process the user’s geolocation, IP address, latitude, longitude will be checked against the list of locations selected by the administrator, and based on that the access can be granted or denied.

&nbsp;

**App that restricts access to several devices for a single account**

Suppose you own a Shopify store where you provide a streaming service that offers a wide variety of TV shows, movies, anime, documentaries, etc. to the end-users on a subscription basis. A user logs in to the store and purchases a plan and shares his account credentials with some of his friends so that they can access the store without purchasing any plan. However, you have to take action against that customer asking them not to share their login info with friends, which is a challenging customer service task.

In this scenario, you would like to restrict the customer account to be able to log in from one device, or several devices depending upon the plan he has purchased. You want to discourage customers from sharing their accounts by preventing multiple people from accessing the content from the same account at the same time.

![device-restriction](/blog/assets/2023/device-restriction.webp)

The administrator can ask the end-user to add a fixed number of trusted devices from where they can access their account. If the end-user tries to log in to the store from the trusted/registered device then access will be provided to them but if they try to login using the unregistered device then access won’t be provided to them.

&nbsp;

**Limit Number of Sessions / Purchases for Single Customer or household**

Consider a scenario where you own a Shopify store to sell branded products such as T-shirts, pants, caps, etc. to any user residing in any country. You are offering to free delivery on the first purchase. But the customers are ordering the product in a single household from multiple accounts so that they don’t have to pay for the delivery cost.

Suppose a customer uses 3 different accounts and 3 different sessions to order the product so that he/she doesn’t have to pay delivery costs. If the customer is connected to the same network then the IP address will be the same for every device on that network. You can use our app that will allow you to limit the connections to the store by using IP- restriction. The admin can restrict the user from accessing the store by adding that IP address to the list of blocked IPs.

![ip-restriction](/blog/assets/2023/ip-restriction.webp)

Any attempt to connect to your store will be blocked without being allowed to even present a username and password unless the connection was initiated from the new IP address. You can purchase our additional feature “Block access from VPN” to restrict the customer if they are using a VPN to disguise their IP address and login into their account.


Shopify Case studies for User session management and adaptive authentication. Restrict Multiple Login by terminating existing session of users in Store.

Shopify User Session Management


[Web3](https://plugins.miniorange.com/web3-sso-shopify) is a concept to develop the decentralized web as internet 3.0 with the help of blockchain technology. This blog is written for everyone who wants to know how the Web3 concept will change the eCommerce world forever. Web3 is a completely decentralized network, utilizing peer-to-peer protocols. The network will enable users to interact with each other without having a middleman or central server in their architecture. This will allow people to retain greater control over their own data.

![SSO into Shopify using crypto wallets - what is web3](/blog/assets/2023/shpify-store-ecommerce-migration.webp)

### How to login using Crypto wallets in Shopify and use cryptocurrencies for checkout without requiring to remember username and password. {#how-to-login-in-crypto-wallets}
Shopify as a leading eCommerce platform has embraced the latest technologies to make shopping easier and more convenient for customers. With the help of our Shopify Web3 Single Sign On Application, we enable users to login securely to the Shopify Store using Crypto Wallets like MetaMask, Trust Wallet, Wallet Connect QR code or any EVM Compatible Wallet and other Web3 compatible Crypto Authentication methods.

### What is the need of integrating Crypto Login and accepting Crypto payments on your Shopify Store? {#integrating-crypto-login}
There are many cryptocurrencies, blockchain and decentralized applications that are attempting to get into the eCommerce business by creating new platforms or adding cryptographic payment methods to current ones. With this changing eCommerce world, don’t fall behind and let your business get affected by not accepting cryptocurrencies (soon to become the most common method of accepting payments online). Using our Shopify app integrate crypto possibilities like login and authentication using crypto wallets and enable payments cryptocurrencies via and more. The era of Crypto has just begun but it is always good to get an edge over your competitors and add such features for your store that can help in giving a better experience for your customers.

![SSO into Shopify using crypto wallets - key features and need of integrating Crypto Login](/blog/assets/2023/features-web3.webp)

### Key features of the Web3 Single Sign-On Application {#key-features}

- **Seamless Single Sign-On Login**

Securely Login using Crypto Wallets like MetaMask, Trust Wallet, Wallet Connect QR code or any EVM Compatible Wallet without having to wait for acknowledgement from the Service Provider. Crypto Login being the most secured method of authentication, doesn’t even require any access code or one-time password for the authentication process.
&nbsp; 
- **High Availability** 

Our application is completely based on a decentralized technology which has a very high uptime as it is based on the Peer to Peer (P2P) protocol. Which is completely independent of the service provider’s server. Ensuring very high availability of SSO services.
&nbsp; 
- **Blockchain Technology** 

Our application utilizes the most reliable yet most secure Blockchain Technology to secure your data. Take full advantage of our blockchain-based security which is a protocol that is virtually impossible to break. Your information will always remain safe and secure.
&nbsp; 
- **Support for Multiple IDPs including Shopify as IDP** 

Enable SSO for users stored in different IDPs along with the support for Web3 Login. Our application support SSO for users stored in multiple IDPs along with the support for Cross Protocol i.e your Service Provider and Identity Provider can have different Authentication Protocols. You can also configure one of your Shopify Stores as an Identity Provider and enable SSO for users stored in that Store to other Shopify Stores or Websites in your business architecture.
&nbsp; 
- **Enable One-Click Login** 

Enjoy benefits like one-click login without requiring reauthentication to all the SSO integrated websites/applications. Collect user’s information post login and automatically assign tags to users based on the CryptoWallet being used. Our application also supports SSO for Headless websites including Shopify Headless Stores, which allows users to purchase products and checkout from any headless website or headless store using their Shopify credentials. Map attributes like first name, last name, tags etc. from your IDP to Shopify customer profile fields.
&nbsp; 
- **Simple and easy to use UI supporting custom requirements** 

does not require user onboarding hence minimizing the user authentication flow. With our clean UI easily set up the crypto integration with your Shopify Store in few minutes. We support all sorts of complex and custom requirements in our applications. Contact us at info@xecurify.com for any queries, requests or product demos.
&nbsp; 

### Additional Rssources {#additional-resources}
1. [Web3 Single Sign On (SSO) Login Solution for Shopify](https://plugins.miniorange.com/web3-sso-shopify)
2. [Shopify Single Sign On (SSO) Solution](https://plugins.miniorange.com/shopify-single-sign-on)
3. [Checkout more security solutions for Shopify](https://plugins.miniorange.com/shopify)
4. [Checkout more about miniOrange as Identity Provider](https://miniorange.com/)
5. [Click here to download the Shopify Single Sign-On App](https://apps.shopify.com/single-sign-onsso)
6. [Click here to know more about Web3 authentication](https://plugins.miniorange.com/web3-wordpress-login)

Login to Shopify using Crypto Wallets like MetaMask, TrustWallet, Wallet Connect & enable Web3 based Login using Single Sign On-SSO for Shopify Plus & Non-Plus.

Shopify Web3 Login using Single Sign-On (SSO)


### How to use Single Sign-On for your ASP.NET MVC application? {#how to use single-sign-on for ASP.NET MVC application}

There may come a time when you need to implement Single Sign-On onto your ASP.NET MVC application. It allows you to integrate your app with other systems and helps them work together as if they are one unified application.

Some of the benefits of doing this are an improved user experience, increased security, and reduction in costs. Users will be able to seamlessly access pages on any of these applications or systems after signing in only once.

Or, if you want to migrate your application, rather than having to rewrite it entirely, you can migrate it one service at a time. Implementing SSO between the two applications helps you effectively link them together as if they were one, after which you can migrate your app with ease. There are even more advantages discussed later in this article.

To understand how you can implement ASP.NET MVC Single Sign On, let us first understand what its components mean.

### What is ASP.NET MVC? {#what is ASP.NET MVC}

ASP.NET MVC is composed of two parts: ASP.NET and MVC. The first is an open-source web application framework that can be used to produce dynamic web pages, applications, and services. The second is MVC, which stands for Model View Controller. It is an architectural pattern that is meant to achieve separation of concerns. 

Together, they form a web application framework that eliminates the drawbacks of web forms like slow response times, issues in unit testing, and HTML customization.

Designing your application using the ASP.NET MVC framework allows you to benefit from both its components’ advantages. However, you still need to make it easier for users to sign in to your application and avail of its services in a hassle-free manner. Let’s see how we can do that.

 ### What is SSO? {#what is SSO}

 When a user wants to access secured services on your application, they have to enter their username and password once to authenticate themselves. In a situation where they want to access similar services over multiple applications connected or related to each other, they would be required to enter either the same or different usernames and passwords multiple times.

 ![what-is-single-sign-on-and-how-sso-works-4](/blog/assets/2023/what-is-single-sign-on-and-how-sso-works-4.webp)

 Single Sign-On (SSO) makes this process easier by using the same authentication ID and authorizing the user across multiple services. Because of SSO, as the name suggests, the user is required to sign in only once in a certain time window before the authentication token expires.

 ### What are the types of SSO protocols? {#what are the types of SSO protocols}

 For SSO to work, Service Providers (SP) and Identity Providers (IDP) must decide on an open standard protocol for how they will choose to exchange identity and authentication information with one another over the relevant applications.

 Here are a few examples of these protocols: 

 **OAuth**: This is an open standard for token-based authentication and authorization, which is used to provide Single Sign-On (SSO). It allows an end user’s account information to be used by third-party services without exposing the user’s password. It serves as an intermediary on behalf of the end-user, providing the service with an access token that authorizes specific account information to be shared.

 **OpenID**: This is one of the most popular authentication protocols, used by the likes of Google and Facebook. It is open standard and decentralized. Third-party Identity Providers (IdP) are used to authenticate users to Relying Parties (RP). It serves as an identity layer on top of OAuth, thereby functioning as an extension to it.

 **SAML**: SAML uses session cookies in a browser that allows a user to access certain pages. It gives more control to enterprises to keep their SSO logins more secure. You can find a detailed explanation of SAML below.


### Let’s take an in-depth look at SAML {#in-depth look at SAML}

SAML stands for Security Assertion Markup Language. Its main purpose in online security is to enable you to access multiple web applications using one set of credentials. It works by passing authenticated credentials between two parties: an Identity Provider (IDP) and a Service Provider (SP). Doing so makes the user experience simpler while also providing better security.

 ![saml-diagram-2](/blog/assets/2023/saml-diagram-2.webp)

 ### Where can we use SAML SSO? {#where can we use SAML SSO}

The primary attribute of SAML is that it is used for authentication, not authorization. This means that a variety of applications, websites, and services that could be used to access and edit data from the service provider need to form a trusted relationship with the SSO website.


Now, when a user tries to access data from the service provider’s app, they’ll need to be authenticated at least once by entering a username and password before they can read or write onto this data. If, however, they have already done this once, then they will be granted access more directly. A SAML request will be generated by the application, asking to authenticate the user, to which the identity provider will respond with a SAML response.


This is particularly useful in situations where the service provider is offering their services across a wide range of applications. It inadvertently also increases the scope of the product by allowing a variety of third-party applications to offer their unique services using the same data.

For example:
- Data-driven statistics websites and applications for online multiplayer games.
- Social media applications and bulletin boards designed around the same topic.
- Online video streaming services with features for viewer engagement.
- Online software marketplaces like Steam that offer user analytics and metadata.

### What are the benefits of using ASP.NET MVC Single Sign On? {#benefits of using ASP.NET MVC Single Sign On}

**Shorter development time**: Using ASP.NET MVC Single Sign-On reduces development time by providing developers with a common authentication framework. It takes even more load off of them if the mechanism is independent.

**Reduction in costs**: Besides the fact that development time is reduced, support requests for forgotten passwords and IT help desk calls also go down, thereby lowering the overall costs.

**Increased security**: An important benefit of SSO is that it reduces the chance of users falling prey to phishing attacks. This is because the user is not trained to mindlessly enter their username and password everywhere. Furthermore, SSO systems usually force users to use secure communication channels. This means that only one place of authentication receives their credentials. The applications, however, don’t receive any specific information besides whether they should let the user in or not. This happens only once, resulting in a minimum transfer of sensitive information, which is naturally favorable.

**Streamlined administration**: The burden on the administrative system to manage user accounts is massively reduced with the implementation of SSO. Keep note, however, that SSO only takes care of authentication. The authorization of users based on their access privileges still needs to be set up separately.

**Improved user experience**: With ASP.NET MVC Single Sign On enabled, users don’t have to enter their usernames and passwords multiple times to access the same service across multiple applications and browsers.

### Additional Sources: {#Additional sources}
- [What is Single Sign-On (SSO)?](https://www.miniorange.com/products/single-sign-on-sso)
- [What is ASP.NET SAML Single Sign-On (SSO)?](https://plugins.miniorange.com/asp-net-saml-single-sign-on-sso)
- [Steps to Configure the ASP.NET SAML 2.0 Module](https://plugins.miniorange.com/asp-dot-net-saml-2-0-single-sign-sso-connector#steps)



How to use Single Sign-On for your ASP.NET MVC application?


## SSO into Jenkins while managing users in Atlassian Crowd

![Atlassian Crowd and Jenkins integration](/blog/assets/2023/atlassian-crowd-and-jenkins-integration.webp)

Jenkins manages and controls software delivery processes throughout the entire lifecycle, including build, document, test, package, stage, deployment, static code analysis, and much more. To make Jenkins application access easier and provide better security we have an [SSO module](https://plugins.miniorange.com/jenkins-saml-single-sign-on-sso) that can be integrated with Jenkins easily and deployed on Jenkins platforms with some of the most important features like **Just-In-Time User & Group Provisioning**, **Auto Redirect to IdP**, **Signing & Encryption**, **Custom User Attribute Mapping**, **Single Logout**, **Manual Group & Role Mapping** and many more. 

Atlassian Crowd is a powerful tool that enables users to create sessions for multiple Atlassian products like Jira, Confluence, Bitbucket. The Crowd is a centralised identity for access management application that manages the users from various directories like Active Directory, LDAP, Open LDAP, Microsoft Azure Active Directory for connected applications. These capabilities can now be applied to Jenkins as Crowd connector for Jenkins.

Now, enterprises are looking to delegate user authentication for the applications from Crowd to central IAM (Identity & Access Management) applications for better security. But Crowd is still required to manage users and permissions. This use-case is possible with the help of connectors we have developed for these Atlassian applications like [Jira](https://marketplace.atlassian.com/apps/1220053/mo-sso-connector-for-crowd-and-jira?hosting=datacenter&tab=overview), [Confluence](https://marketplace.atlassian.com/apps/1220055/mo-sso-connector-for-crowd-and-confluence?hosting=datacenter&tab=overview), and [Bitbucket](https://marketplace.atlassian.com/apps/1220057/mo-sso-connector-for-crowd-and-bitbucket?hosting=datacenter&tab=overview). Jenkins, however, is a non-Atlassian application, thus integrating this flow with Jenkins is difficult. 

![Atlassian apps and Jenkins integration](/blog/assets/2023/atlassian-apps-and-jenkins-integration.webp)

### How does the miniOrange plugin handle this use case? {#miniorage-plugin-solution}

miniOrange haS developed a [Jenkins Crowd SSO Connector](https://miniorange.atlassian.net/servicedesk/customer/portal/2) capable of creating user sessions by reading the Crowd session. Like any other Atlassian application like Jira, Confluence and Bitbucket, you can manage groups and permissions from the Crowd. You can authenticate to the Crowd via SAML SSO using the [Crowd SAML SSO](https://marketplace.atlassian.com/apps/1218304) plugin. With the help of Jenkins Crowd SSO connector, you can invoke SSO from Jenkins itself. You do not need to login into Crowd explicitly.

### How does it work? {#how-does-it-work}

Crowd SAML SSO Plugin acts as a SAML Service Provider and is used to enable trust between Jenkins and the central IAM applications. Crowd SAML SSO plugin takes care of the SAML Request, SAML response, and user session management at the Crowd end. Once the Crowd session is created, Jenkins reads this session and the user is logged in to Jenkins. Users can invoke SSO from Jenkins itself.

Here, IAM will perform the user authentication. The crowd will be used to manage users and their groups (permissions) for all the connected applications.

Also, with this flow, end-users will experience a seamless login and won’t notice that the SSO request and response passes through the Crowd Server.

**Let’s understand the Workflow!**

1. The user tries to access the Jenkins application.
2. For authentication, the users would get forwarded to the IAM application’s login page.
    1. The Jenkins Crowd SSO Connector will redirect users to the Crowd SAML plugin.
    2. The Crowd SAML plugin will forward the user to the IAM application for authentication.
3. Once the authentication is successful, the user will be redirected back to the Jenkins application and logged in.
    1. IAM sends a response back to the Crowd SAML plugin.
    2. Crowd SAML plugin validates the user creating the user session, and redirects the user to the respective application form where the SSO was invoked.
    3. Users will be granted access to Jenkins based on their groups and applications configured on Crowd.

![Atlassian apps and Jenkins integration](/blog/assets/2023/jenkins-crowd-connector-workflow.webp)

### What are the Key Benefits? {#what-are-key-benefits}

1. There is only one set of SAML configurations for all the Atlassian & Non-Atlassian applications.
2. User authentication moved to central IAM without losing any of the existing user permissions.
3. Users will be able to access all the connected applications using their IAM credentials.
4. This method makes it simple to add an extra security layer, such as MFA, on top of the SSO, which was not available while utilizing Crowd for SSO.

What do you think of this solution? Do you think this would be helpful in centralizing authentication for your users? Drop us a mail at [info@xecurify.com](mailto:info@xecurify.com) or [raise a ticket here](https://miniorange.atlassian.net/servicedesk/customer/portal/2) to talk to us.

miniOrange Jenkins Crowd SSO Connector is capable of creating user sessions by reading the Crowd session.

SSO into Jenkins while managing users in Atlassian Crowd


## **Simplify Umbraco Login with SAML SSO** {#Simplify Umbraco Login with SAML SSO}   

Umbraco is a popular Content Management System (CMS) known for its flexibility and ease of use for creating websites and apps. As businesses grow, it becomes a challenge to manage user access to multiple platforms they operate. This is where Single Sign-On (SSO) comes in. With solutions like **Umbraco Backoffice SSO and Umbraco MemberLogin SSO**, users can log in once to access the Umbraco backoffice or membership site and other applications without needing to log in again. This simplifies the user experience and boosts security.


### **What is Umbraco SAML SSO?** {#What is Umbraco SAML SSO?}

[Umbraco SAML SSO](https://plugins.miniorange.com/umbraco-single-sign-on-sso) (Security Assertion Markup Language Single Sign-On) is a feature that allows users to log into Umbraco and other connected applications with a single set of credentials. By implementing SAML SSO, users enjoy seamless access to the platforms without needing to enter different usernames and passwords for each one. This setup can support various use cases, including Umbraco Backoffice SSO, Umbraco MemberLogin SSO, and Umbraco Multisite SSO.

### **How Umbraco SAML SSO Works?** {#How Umbraco SAML SSO Works?}

When a user attempts to log into Umbraco, they are redirected to the IdP for authentication. If the user is already logged in to the IdP, they are automatically authenticated and granted access to Umbraco. This functionality is crucial for scenarios like Umbraco Backoffice SSO, where administrators or content editors require quick, hassle-free access to the CMS, or Umbraco MemberLogin SSO, which provides members with seamless entry into restricted areas of the website.

For organizations managing multiple websites, Umbraco Multisite SSO becomes invaluable. It allows a user to access all sites within the same network using a single login, reducing the complexity of managing multiple credentials and enhancing the overall user experience.

### **What is the Best Umbraco SAML SSO Solution?** {#What is the Best Umbraco SAML SSO Solution?}

When it comes to choosing the best SAML SSO solution or technical partner for Umbraco, [miniOrange Umbraco SAML SSO](https://umbraco.com/integrations-and-tech-partners/miniorange-umbraco-saml-single-sign-on-sso/) is a top choice. The miniOrange Umbraco SAML Single Sign-On (SSO) module helps you add SSO functionality to your Umbraco application using SAML-compliant identity providers, such as Azure AD, ADFS, Office365, Okta, Google Apps, and Salesforce. It even allows for SAML SSO integration into other platforms like ASP.NET, DNN, nopCommerce, ASP.NET Core, and more.

With this module, users can enable Umbraco Backoffice SSO or Umbraco MemberLogin SSO seamlessly across different environments. Additionally, it supports Umbraco Multisite SSO, allowing users to access multiple sites under one login, further simplifying user management and improving security. In short, the miniOrange module allows for secure Single Sign-On to your Umbraco application using your identity provider's credentials.


Integrating Umbraco SAML SSO, such as Umbraco Backoffice SSO or Umbraco MemberLogin SSO, offers several benefits like:

## Improved User Experience

**Seamless Access**

Users can access the Umbraco platform with a single set of credentials. This eliminates the need to remember multiple passwords, reducing login friction.

**Quick Onboarding**

New users can be quickly onboarded using their existing credentials from identity providers like Microsoft Azure AD, Google Workspace, ADFS, Office365, Salesforce and more.


## Enhanced Security

**Centralized Authentication**  

SAML SSO centralizes user authentication with your trusted identity provider (IdP), reducing the chances of data breaches and unapproved access.

**Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)**
Integrating SAML SSO allows enforcing additional security measures like MFA solution, which adds an extra layer of protection against unauthorized access.

**Single Point of Logout**
When a user logs out from one service, they are automatically logged out from all connected services, reducing the risk of session hijacking.

## Reduced Administrative Overhead

**Simplified User Management**
Administrators can manage users centrally through the IdP, minimizing the need for separate user management within Umbraco.

**Automated Provisioning**
User creation, deletion, and updates can be synchronized automatically, saving time and effort.

**Lower Support Costs**
Fewer password-related support tickets, as users only need to manage one set of credentials.


## Compliance and Governance

**Consistent Policy Enforcement**
Implementing SAML SSO ensures that security policies like password complexity, expiration, and MFA are consistently applied across all applications, including Umbraco.

**Audit Trails and Reporting**
Centralized access management through SSO provides better visibility and auditability of user actions, aiding in compliance with regulations like GDPR, HIPAA, and others.

## Scalability and Flexibility

**Easier Integration**
SAML SSO is compatible with many identity providers, making it easier to integrate Umbraco with existing authentication systems.

**Future-Proofing**
As your organization grows or adopts new applications, SAML SSO ensures that scaling user access management remains efficient and secure.

## Consistent Branding and Experience

**Customizable Login Experience**
SAML SSO allows for consistent branding across all login interfaces, providing a unified look and feel that aligns with your organization’s identity.


### **Features of Umbraco SAML Single Sign-On (SSO)** {#Features of Umbraco SAML Single Sign-On (SSO)}

**Seamless Single Sign-On**

Experience effortless access to all resources across Umbraco sites and the Umbraco Backoffice with Single Sign-On (SSO) integration through any SAML 2.0 Identity Provider (IdP).


**Controlled Access with SSO**

Easily restrict access to your site, ensuring that only authenticated users can view specific pages. Users without an active session will be redirected to your Identity Provider (IdP) for secure login.


**Unified Logout Experience**

Enable a streamlined logout process across all server sessions initiated via SAML SSO. Users can log out of multiple sessions with a single action.


**Flexible Role Mapping**

Map roles from your Identity Provider to specific permissions within Umbraco, providing granular control over access to resources in both Umbraco sites and the Umbraco Backoffice.

**Custom Certificate Management**

Enhance security by adding your custom X.509 certificate for signed requests and responses, ensuring end-to-end data integrity and protection.

**Federation Integration**

Support Single Sign-On for users from institutions affiliated with the InCommon Federation, enabling broader accessibility and compliance.


## **Conclusion**

Implementing miniOrange Umbraco SAML SSO can greatly enhance your website's security and user experience. Whether you're setting up Umbraco Backoffice SSO for administrators, Umbraco MemberLogin SSO for site members, or Umbraco Multisite SSO for multiple domains, the benefits are clear. By following the steps outlined above, you can set up SSO with confidence and enjoy simplified user management and seamless access.

Contact us at umbracosupport@xecurify.com for support or a consultation on integrating Umbraco SAML SSO solutions that fit your business needs.


&nbsp;  



### **More Resources** {#more resources}
- [What is SAML? How does it work?](https://www.miniorange.com/what-is-saml)
- [Umbraco OAuth Single Sign On (SSO)](https://plugins.miniorange.com/umbraco-oauth-single-sign-on-sso)
- [Umbraco PowerBI Integrations](https://plugins.miniorange.com/umbraco-microsoft-powerbi-integration) 
- [Umbraco Two Factor Authentication](https://plugins.miniorange.com/umbraco-two-factor-authentication-2fa)


Learn what SAML SSO is and how to integrate it with Umbraco for improved security, user management, and seamless access.

What is Umbraco SAML SSO? | Benefits & Features


On September 2021, an attacker published credentials for 87,000 FortiGate SSL VPN devices online and created a huge threat to VPN Security by exploiting a known, old vulnerability. Investigators concluded that the credential was obtained by exploiting CVE-2018-13379, a vulnerability that allows unauthenticated attackers to download system files via specially crafted HTTP resource requests. Its vulnerability was given a CVSS score of 9.8.

During an attacker’s web scan for vulnerable devices, they got hold of the stolen info from “systems that remained unpatched” at the time, says Fortinet. Unless FortiOS SSL VPN passwords are changed since this scan, they can be compromised, according to Fortinet. “Fortinet has been actively advising and educating its customers about these vulnerabilities since first discovering them, urging them repeatedly to update their affected systems as soon as possible,” the company said in June.

Due to FortiOS SSL VPN’s popularity with enterprise users, this can also be used to compromise network security.

![Fortinet Attack](/blog/assets/2023/fortinet-attack.webp)

### Benefits of VPN {#benefits-of-vpn}
When you activate VPN on your device, it mainly provides the following benefits:

- **Privacy** — shields IP addresses, locations, search histories, and other details from being tracked by websites, browsers, cable companies, internet service providers, and others.
- **Security** — ensuring the safety of your personal information while it’s in transit or being received from and sent from your device.

![VPN MFA](/blog/assets/2023/vpn.webp) 

### Are VPNs really so secure? {#are-vpns-really-so-secure}

Although VPNs are good tools, they aren’t perfect. Malware and online attacks can infect them just like any computer program. VPN security is negated if infected. An attacker can use arbitrary data such as authentication files to retrieve data from many SSL VPN products. Additionally, **unauthorized attachment to a VPN** provides the attacker with a secondary exploit entry to a root shell.

In an eye-commencing article through Forbes, agencies all over the globe discovered simply how susceptible all of the “secure” VPNs with inside the marketplace are. Here is a series of Statistics on VPNs that would make you rethink your VPN security: Out of the ~ 5 Billion customers on the internet today, **~25% use VPNs**. That is an overwhelmingly big range to get access to factors to essential data and should be secured with no compromises. The studies observed that nearly 40% of VPNs comprise some form of malware in them. Even extra unexpected is the truth that this same study discovered over 70% of VPNs to embed a few shapes of unreliable and unethical third-party monitoring devices in the service. Free VPNs or even some paid VPNs have an inner data rate limiter setup, which nearly ensures slower speeds and therefore lesser efficiency. Advertisements on VPNs are a problem of notable difficulty as maximum Advertisements come connected with a risky user fingerprint that can best be made through tracking and sharing user records.

As we have seen in the above scenario, using specially crafted HTTP resource requests, an unauthenticated attacker may be able to download FortiOS system files through a path **traversal vulnerability** in the FortiOS SSL VPN web portal.

### How Two-Factor Authentication can be helpful? {#how-two-factor-authentication-can-be-helpful}

[Two-factor authentication (2FA)](https://www.miniorange.com/products/two-factor-authentication-(2fa)) prevents hackers from having access to your network using compromised credentials. 2FA calls for customers to validate their identification by supplying a 2nd safety component in addition to their password. When connecting to a company network, users have to first input their Active Directory credentials, followed by a time-factor based one-time password (OTP) or HMAC. This OTP is displayed on something that a user “owns”, including a specialized cell phone application known as an authenticator or a programmable hardware token. Ultimately, this provides an additional layer of security for your systems against unauthorized access.

![Mobile 2fa](/blog/assets/2023/2fa-mobile.webp)

### How VPN security is achieved with 2FA? {#how-vpn-security-is-achieved-with-2fa}

VPNs are a vital part of many businesses’ security infrastructures, providing employees with secure remote access to company resources. However, VPNs can also be vulnerable to attack if they are not properly secured.One way to help secure a VPN is to use Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) for all users. 2FA requires users to provide more than one form of authentication to access a system or resource. For example, a user might need to enter a password and also use a fingerprint reader or mobile device for two-factor authentication.2FA can be used to help secure both the client-side and server-side of a VPN connection. On the client side, 2FA can be used to authenticate the user before the VPN client software is even launched. This helps prevent attackers from launching the VPN client software with stolen credentials.On the server side, 2FA can be used to authenticate VPN users when they attempt to connect to the server. This helps ensure that only authorized users are able to access the server and helps prevent man-in-the-middle attacks. 2FA is not a perfect solution, but it can be an effective way for your **VPN security**.

### How can miniOrange help with VPN Security? {#how-can-miniOrange-help-with-vpn-security}

We can help you set up Two-factor authentication without problems and resolve the trouble of safety vulnerabilities in addition to privileged access control. If you’re using a Virtual Private Network, to permit your customers to connect over a public network, improving the security turns into a difficulty considering customers gain access to sensitive virtual assets. We can be of great help by providing [2FA on top of VPN Authentication](https://www.miniorange.com/iam/solutions/vpn-mfa-multi-factor-authentication). This secures access to protected resources instead of relying on only the VPN username/password.

Enabling Two-factor authentication for your Fortinet FortiGate managed active directory increases security and ensures customers only have access to the systems and resources they need access to.

### miniOrange 2FA for Fortinet FortiGate Login {#miniorange-2fa-for-fortinet-fortigate-login}

miniOrange accomplishes this by appearing as a **RADIUS server** that accepts the username/password of the consumer entered as a RADIUS request and validates the customer towards the user store as **Active Directory (AD)**. After the primary stage of verification, miniOrange activates the customer with 2FA and grants or denies access depending on the input through the customer.

![VPN Security](/blog/assets/2023/radius-server-flow.webp)

- Primary authentication starts off with the customer entering his Username and Password for Fortinet FortiGate.
- This request portrays as an authentication request to the RADIUS Server.
- miniOrange RADIUS server processes customer credentials to authenticate against the credentials saved in AD (Active Directory) / Database.
- Once the customer‘s first stage of authentication receives approval, AD sends the affirmation to RADIUS Server.
- After this miniOrange RADIUS Server asks for a 2FA task to the customer.
- Now, the customer enters the response/code which he gets on his hardware/phone.
- Customer feedback is scanned at miniOrange’s RADIUS Server side.
- After validating the successful 2nd-factor authentication, the RADIUS server gives access to the customer.

### What are different 2FA/MFA methods for Fortinet FortiGate supported by miniOrange? {#what-are-different-2fa/mfa-methods for-fortinet-fortigate-supported-by-miniOrange}
In addition to Push Notification, Soft Token, Microsoft/Google Authenticator, we support different methods of [2FA/MFA for Fortinet FortiGate](https://www.miniorange.com/iam/integrations/fortinet-multi-factor-authentication-mfa) secure access.

![MFA Methods](/blog/assets/2023/mfa-methods.webp)

Fortinet FortiGate can be secured using any of the 2FA methods listed above. You can integrate VPN 2FA with Fortinet FortiGate and miniOrange by configuring RADIUS authentication settings and policies.



Secure your VPN by using different two-factor authentication methods for Fortinet FortiGate﻿ SSL VPN security, How you can use 2FA for VPN.

VPN Security: How 2FA helps to secure your VPN?



## What is IAM? {#what-is-aim}
Identity and Access Management (IAM) is a framework of policies, processes, and technologies designed to ensure that the right people have the right level of access to the right resources at the right time, and for the right reasons. Essentially, IAM is about securing digital identities and regulating access to sensitive information and systems within an organization. It plays a critical role in maintaining security, especially as organizations manage increasing amounts of data and access points.
Effective IAM is essential for adopting a Zero Trust security framework, which operates on the principle of "never trust, always verify." By ensuring that only authorized users have access to specific resources, IAM helps organizations comply with regulatory requirements and significantly reduces the risk of cyber threats like ransomware and privilege escalation. Overall, we can say that IAM not only protects against unauthorized access but also strengthens overall cybersecurity posture, making it an important aspect of any organization's security strategy.

## The Four Pillars of IAM {#the-four-pillars-of-iam}
IAM is a comprehensive framework anchored by four key components: IGA, AM, PAM, and ADmgmt


### 1. Access Management (AM) {#access-management-am}
Access Management (AM) is a core component of IAM that focuses on controlling and managing how users access resources within an organization. It ensures that users have the appropriate permissions to perform their roles while safeguarding sensitive data and systems from unauthorized access.

Key features of access management include centralized role and permission management, which allows administrators to define and manage user roles and access rights from a single, unified platform. This centralization simplifies the process of assigning and adjusting permissions as users' roles within the organization evolve. AM systems also support multiple authentication protocols, enabling secure access across diverse environments and applications.

Additionally, Access Management implements Role-Based Access Control (RBAC), which restricts access based on the user’s role within the organization, ensuring that they only have access to the resources necessary for their job functions. To further enhance security, AM often incorporates Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), requiring users to provide multiple forms of verification before gaining access. Another valuable feature is temporary privilege assignment, which grants users elevated access for a limited time, ensuring that higher-level permissions are not misused or left unchecked.


### 2. Privileged Access Management (PAM) {#privileged-access-management-pam}

Privileged Access Management (PAM) is a critical aspect of IAM that focuses on securing and managing privileged accounts, as accounts/ users with elevated access rights can potentially cause significant harm if compromised. PAM plays an important role in protecting these high-risk accounts from unauthorized access, misuse, and cyber threats.

Key features of PAM include centralized management of privileged accounts and credentials, ensuring that all privileged access is controlled and monitored from a single platform. This centralization helps prevent the misuse of privileged accounts by tightly regulating who can access critical systems and data. PAM also provides fine-grained permissions, allowing organizations to assign the minimum level of access necessary for users to perform their roles, thereby reducing the attack surface.

In addition, PAM supports customized approval workflows that require specific authorization before privileged actions can be taken, adding an extra layer of security. Automated password rotation is another essential feature, regularly changing passwords for privileged accounts to minimize the risk of exposure. PAM also includes session monitoring and auditing, which track and record all activities performed during privileged sessions, enabling real-time oversight and providing a detailed audit trail for compliance and forensic purposes.

### 3. Active Directory Management (AD management) {#ad-management}

Active Directory Management (ADMgmt) focuses on managing identities and access within an organization through Microsoft Active Directory (AD). It plays a crucial role in controlling and securing user access to network resources, applications, and services, making it an essential part of any IAM strategy.

Key features of ADMgmt include seamless integration with cloud identity providers and other IAM components, allowing organizations to manage identities across both on-premises and cloud environments efficiently. ADMgmt also automates the provisioning of AD users and groups, ensuring that user accounts are created, updated, and deactivated as needed. This automation is complemented by robust monitoring, auditing, and reporting tools, which provide visibility into user activities and help maintain security and compliance.

ADMgmt also enforces role-based access control (RBAC) within Active Directory, ensuring that users have access only to the resources they need based on their roles. Additionally, it provides protection against common Active Directory shortcomings, such as misconfigurations and unauthorized access, by implementing best practices and security measures to strengthen AD’s overall security posture.

### 4. Identity Governance and Administration (IGA) {#identity-governance-and-administration-iga}
Identity Governance and Administration (IGA) is an important aspect of IAM, focusing on the centralized management and oversight of user identities and their access rights within an organization. IGA ensures that only authorized individuals have the appropriate access to systems and data, helping to maintain security and compliance across the enterprise.

Key features of IGA include automated workflows that streamline the process of access request management, provisioning, and de-provisioning of user accounts. This automation reduces the manual workload and minimizes errors, ensuring that users receive the right level of access promptly. IGA systems integrate seamlessly with directories and other enterprise systems, allowing for efficient synchronization of identity data across the organization. 

IGA also provides robust tools for entitlement management, which defines and controls what resources users can access based on their roles. It also enforces Segregation of Duties (SoD) policies to prevent conflicts of interest and unauthorized access. Access review workflows, role-based access management, and powerful analytics and reporting tools are also integral to IGA, providing visibility into who has access to what, ensuring compliance with regulations, and enabling informed decision-making regarding access rights.


### Key Aspects of IAM Solutions {#key-aspects-of-iam-solutions}
When evaluating IAM (Identity and Access Management) solutions, several key aspects should be kept in mind for efficient identity management. 
User Management: This involves tracking and managing every user within the organization, including their roles, permissions, and access rights. Effective user management ensures that each user has the correct level of access to perform their duties while minimizing the risk of unauthorized access.
Authentication & Authorization: This component governs how users gain access to resources and systems. It includes mechanisms for verifying user identities (authentication) and determining what resources they can access (authorization). 
User Reviews: Regularly auditing user access is essential to maintaining security. Periodic reviews help ensure that users have the appropriate access for their current roles and that any unnecessary or outdated permissions are revoked. This process reduces the risk of privilege escalation and unauthorized access.
Onboarding and Offboarding: Streamlining the process of adding and removing users is crucial for maintaining security and operational efficiency. Onboarding ensures that new users are quickly granted the access they need, while offboarding ensures that access is revoked when a user leaves the organization, reducing the risk of lingering access.


### Conclusion {#conclusion}
For organizations looking to further strengthen their IAM approach, considering a cloud-based Identity Management Platform is a wise investment. Such a platform offers seamless integration of all IAM components, providing centralized control and improved efficiency. miniOrange offers a robust Unified Identity Platform that can help your organization implement a comprehensive IAM strategy, ensuring that your digital environment remains secure and well-managed.



Identity and Access Management (IAM) is a broad term covering different methods to block unauthorized access.  It’s built on four key pillars: Identity Governance and Administration (IGA), Access Management (AM), Privileged Access Management (PAM), and Active Directory Management (ADMgmt).

4 Pillars of  Identity and Access Management





## What is CIAM? {#what-is-ciam}

**Customer Identity and Access Management (CIAM)** is an identity technology used by various organizations to control a customer’s access to multiple applications and services. One of the primary functions of CIAM is to assist companies in delivering an enhanced user experience while protecting their user data and managing **customer identity**.


A **CIAM** solution generally offers a number of features, including customer registration, [Single Sign-On (SSO)](https://www.miniorange.com/products/single-sign-on-sso?utm_source=Social-media&utm_medium=Youtube&utm_campaign=single+sign+on) Authentication, [two-step verification](https://www.miniorange.com/products/multi-factor-authentication-mfa?utm_source=Social-media&utm_medium=Youtube&utm_campaign=multi-factor-authentication), account and user management, Passwordless Login access management, directory services, and other data access policies. Customer Identity Management and [IAM (Identity and Access Management)](https://www.miniorange.com/iam/) are integral components of a robust CIAM software solution.


## What is CIAM Software? {#what-is-ciam-software}

**CIAM software** is a specialized [customer identity and access management](https://www.miniorange.com/iam/customer-identity-access-management-ciam?utm_source=social-media&utm_medium=youtube&utm_campaign=ciam) software designed to streamline and secure every stage of a customer's interaction with an organization. From smooth sign-up and sign-in processes to creating personalized user experiences, CIAM software ensures that customer interactions are both frictionless and secure. By implementing a robust **customer identity management software**, organizations can accurately identify their customers, tailor access to customer-facing applications, and maintain compliance with various industry regulations. This not only builds and maintains customer trust but also helps organizations meet compliance mandates across different regulatory standards and frameworks.

## What is CIAM Used for? {#what-is-ciam-used-for}

**Customer Identity and Access Management (CIAM)** is a comprehensive solution designed to address various CIAM use cases, enhancing both security and user experience. The primary customer identity and access management use cases include:


1. **Authentication**: Ensuring that only authenticated users access applications and services is fundamental. CIAM solutions offer robust authentication mechanisms to verify user identities with varying levels of assurance based on the context of the interaction.
2. **Authorization**: Proper authorization is critical to ensure that customers have the right access at the right times. CIAM solutions provide transparent yet secure authorization processes, ensuring that users only access what they are permitted to.
3. **User Management**: Managing digital identities throughout the customer lifecycle is important. CIAM solutions facilitate user registration, authentication, and retention, ensuring a seamless user journey with the organization.
4. **Application Interoperability**: CIAM solutions must integrate seamlessly with other applications and services. By supporting standards such as OAuth 2.0 and offering APIs and SDKs, CIAM solutions ensure interoperability and extensibility.
5. **Federation and Open Standards**: CIAM solutions support social identity providers for sign-ups and sign-ins and handle business-to-business-to-consumer (B2B2C) scenarios. Standards-based identity providers like SAML 2.0 and OpenID Connect (OIDC) provide a competitive edge for organizations offering SaaS services.
6. **Metrics & Analytics**: Capturing and analyzing data from user interactions, such as sign-ups, sign-ins, and browsing patterns, is essential. CIAM solutions enable organizations to leverage these data points for higher conversion rates, better retention, increased engagement, and ultimately, higher revenues.

## Essential elements of CIAM {#essential-elements-of-ciam}

Modern-day CIAM solution consists of AI-powered, adaptive authentication. These utilize contextual and behavioral analytics, additionally, they consist of administratively established frameworks and policies. It determines, what authentication factors can be applied to any customer for a particular situation, few of these components are listed below 

- SSO (Single Sign-On)
- Passwordless Login
- Social Login
- MFA (Multi-Factor Authentication)
- Adaptive MFA
- Login with Existing User Store
- Provisioning
- Progressive Profiling
- Metrics & Analysis

## What is the difference between IAM and CIAM? {#what-is-the-difference-between-iam-and-ciam}

CIAM is designed for website users or mobile app visitors, offering a simpler authorization model compared to IAM, which serves employees accessing internal services. CIAM focuses on direct logins, while IAM often includes a user portal and handles a broader range of roles within an organization.

![](/blog/assets/2024/iam-ciam-features.webp)

**Difference between Customer Identity and Access Management (CIAM) and Identity and Access Management (IAM)**

The distinction between **IAM vs CIAM** lies in their target user bases and specific functionalities. CIAM and IAM both manage identities and access but serve different purposes: CIAM is tailored for customer-facing applications and enhancing user experience, while IAM is designed for internal employee access and IT management.

## How to Choose the Right CIAM Provider: Key Features to Consider {#key-features-of-ciam}

When selecting the right CIAM solution for your business, it's crucial to understand the CIAM features that will best meet your needs. Here are some **key features for customer identity and access management**:

**1. Online Reputation of CIAM Provider**
Before considering the services of any CIAM provider, conduct an in-depth background check. Investigate the types of services they have delivered in the past, and read reviews from businesses currently utilizing their services. This helps ensure you choose a reliable and reputable provider.

&nbsp;

**2. On-Premise and Cloud Support**
A robust CIAM solution should offer both on-premise and cloud support. On-premise solutions give businesses control over their data, managed and handled by their own IT administrator teams. On the other hand, cloud-based security enables businesses to scale rapidly with minimal effort. On-premise tools provide a level of security and control that surpasses cloud solutions, offering significantly better threat protection.

&nbsp;

**3. Scalability and Customization**
One of the primary CIAM features is its ability to support a large number of users. The frequency and number of users accessing a product directly impact its usability and cost. Customization options allow for various personalization services, providing a tailored experience for users. This is particularly advantageous for businesses with a consistent client base, as it enables the accumulation of customer data to offer personalized experiences.

&nbsp;

**4. Frictionless User Experience (UX)**
An effective CIAM solution provides a seamless user experience across channels. Modern CIAM solutions capture relevant data and allow customers to create profiles easily, without lengthy registration processes. Features like passwordless authentication and support for social media logins through OpenID Connect (OIDC) enhance the user experience. Customization and personalization build customer confidence and establish trust in the brand.

## What are the benefits of a CIAM Solution? {#what-are-the-benefits-of-a-ciam-solution}

CIAM benefits provide substantial advantages for businesses looking to enhance both security and customer experience. Here are some **key benefits of CIAM**:

&nbsp;

1. **Frictionless Sign up without hassle**: CIAM helps streamline the registration and sign up process, reducing abandonment rates and increasing conversion rates. By offering convenient registration options like social login and customized forms, businesses can leave a positive first impression on any new customer.
2. **Hassle-free sign-in option**: With features like Single Sign-On (SSO) and customer-friendly Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), CIAM ensures that customers are able to sign in and access all the applications easily and securely. This enhances user experience by reducing the need for multiple sets of credentials.
3. **Branded Interactions**: Every interaction, from sign-up and sign-in to email communications, should reinforce your brand identity, making it instantly recognizable to customers. A CIAM solution ensures consistent branding across all touchpoints, providing built-in, customizable user interfaces for seamless sign-up and sign-in experiences. Additionally, it supports integration with Android, iOS, and JavaScript SDKs, allowing you to easily incorporate branded user authentication pages into your apps.
4. **Customer Insight and Engagement**: Collecting and analyzing data on usage patterns, favorite products, personal preferences, and engagement types are essential for gaining deep customer insights. These data points can be transformed into valuable business intelligence, enabling you to tailor your products and services more effectively to meet customer needs and preferences.
5. **Drive Loyalty and Revenue**: CIAM provides a holistic view of customers, enabling businesses to deliver consistent and personalized experiences across all digital channels. This fosters customer loyalty and drives revenue by creating meaningful upsell opportunities.
6. **Self-Service account recovery**: Password forgetfulness is common, but account recovery should be quick and secure. Customers should easily recover their accounts using a verified identifier, such as a registered email address or mobile number, without needing customer support. This ease of recovery can be crucial, often determining whether a business transaction is completed or a potential customer is lost.
7. **Compliance with privacy regulations**: By giving customers control over their data and ensuring compliance with privacy regulations like GDPR and CCPA, CIAM helps build a foundation of trust. CIAM tools allow businesses to collect and enforce customer consent, ensuring data is shared responsibly and securely.

## Why Choose miniOrange? {#why-choose-miniOrange}

While CIAM and IAM solutions share foundational elements, traditional IAM solutions cannot fully replace CIAM. CIAM addresses unique needs by adding scalability and flexibility to the core IAM features. CIAM solutions are specifically designed to authenticate and authorize consumers accessing public-facing applications and services, supporting millions of users and integrating seamlessly with social logins and various business systems like sales and marketing.


miniOrange offers robust Customer Identity solutions (CIAM) through both cloud and on-premise IAM solutions, ensuring secure access for your workforce, users, and clients. To integrate a comprehensive CIAM solution and enhance your security infrastructure, book a trial with miniOrange today.

### Start Your 30-Day Free Trial Now!

Sign up for our [30-day free trial](https://www.miniorange.com/iam/free-trial) and enjoy 24/7 support, a free proof of concept (POC), and a dedicated technical expert to assist you every step of the way. 

## Further Reading {#further-reading}

- [Our global Customers around the CIAM Use Case](https://www.miniorange.com/customers)
- [Workforce Identity](https://www.miniorange.com/iam/workforce-identity)
- [What is IAM?](https://www.miniorange.com/what-is-iam-identity-and-access-management)

## FAQ {#faq}

**1. What is the Purpose of CIAM?**
CIAM (Customer Identity and Access Management) helps businesses identify their customers, create personalized experiences, and determine the correct access levels needed for customer-facing applications and services. By streamlining the registration and authentication processes, CIAM ensures that customers can easily and securely interact with your digital properties. It enables businesses to provide customized and seamless user experiences, manage customer identities efficiently, and protect user data, ultimately enhancing customer satisfaction and loyalty.

&nbsp;

**2. Is CIAM a Good Certification?**
Yes, CIAM is recognized globally as a leading certification in the field of identity and access management. It is highly valued for its focus on customer identity and access management, making it an excellent choice for professionals seeking to enhance their expertise in securing and managing customer identities. Earning a CIAM certification demonstrates a strong commitment to best practices in information security and user experience, and it is widely respected by employers and peers in the industry.

&nbsp;


**3. What are the Basics of CIAM?**
CIAM (Customer Identity and Access Management) focuses on managing and controlling external parties' access to a business's applications, web portals, and digital services. It involves the processes of registering, authenticating, and authorizing customers to ensure secure and seamless interactions. CIAM also aims to enhance user experience by providing personalized access and maintaining robust security measures to protect user data and privacy.

&nbsp;

**4. What is a CIAM Solution?**
A CIAM solution is a comprehensive system designed to manage and control customer identities and their access to a business's applications, web portals, and digital services. Customer identity and access management solutions streamline the processes of registration, authentication, and authorization, ensuring secure and seamless user experiences. These customer identity management solutions also provide features such as Single Sign-On (SSO), Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), and personalized user experiences. By implementing a customer identity solution, businesses can protect user data, comply with privacy regulations, and enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty. CIAM solutions are essential for managing digital identities effectively and securely in today's interconnected digital landscape.


### Which Solution is Right For You?

IAM - Identity and Access Management
Manages and secures employee identities, ensuring authorized access to organizational resources.

CIAM - Customer Identity and Access Management
Handles customer identities across platforms, providing secure and personalized user experiences.








Customer Identity and Access Management (CIAM) enhances user experience and secures data by managing customer access to applications and services.

What is CIAM?  Customer Identity and Access Management Solution


Cloud technology is undeniably considered paramount everywhere in the tech market. The rationale behind this is the emerging growth of Cloud technology in multiple businesses and enterprises to manage Data / Services which helps them to streamline their organizational process. G Suite is one of the most favored user-friendly Cloud technology, which is easily accessible from any device or location, irrational to organizational access parameters. G Suite continuously strives to supply additional features uniformly for the convenience of users. But still, there are a few aspects in G Suite that can’t be easily handled around access control and device management, due to the frontline feature that Google always promises of “anytime, anywhere and with any device”.

Easy cloud access to G Suite also brings up a set of challenges associated with security concerns to stop your data from being accessed by unauthorized users protecting it from various sorts of cyber threats. Maintaining the safety of such broad-driven cloud applications (Gmail, Google Drive) is one of the challenges within the modernized world. Here IP restriction for G Suite comes within the frame and is considered one of the proven solutions for handling these sorts of use cases.

To get specific inference regarding what **G suite IP restriction** is and the way it works we’d like to urge clear about a few basic aspects:-

- **What is IP restriction for G Suite?**
- **Why does your organization need IP restriction for G Suite?**
- **Why use miniOrange to protect your G Suite Data?**

### What is IP Restriction for G Suite? {#what-is-ip-restriction-for-gsuite}

IP Restriction termed as Internet Protocol Restriction allows admin or organization owners to restrict access to their business data to respective users and employees only through the specified and registered IP addresses. Allowing or restricting user access is often achieved with a separated IP as well as a variety of IP addresses. The IP restrictions are often set of different levels and combinations like defined IP ranges or individual IP addresses. Enabling IP restriction for G Suite ensures that your important data can’t be accessed at an unsecured public place or through an unregistered IP address.

Considering a real-time example, in a corporation you being an admin have whitelisted your employee’s device’s [Mobiles, PC’s] IP addresses and accordingly permitted access to your organization data. Now suppose if an employee is using the whitelisted device in an organization’s premises i.e he can easily access data and work around it accordingly. For a short time, if he tries to access data from his device being home, he won’t be allowed to access data as his device isn’t whitelisted by admin and secondly, he’s not operating the device from the required location he’s alleged to be.

IP restriction is enabled for various security purposes like reducing redundancy, bandwidth issues, and handling control of websites with efficient recovery. If a user tries to log in outside the required range, it’ll throw an error and a specific employee/ user won’t be unable to login and access the info. This feature is employed in various organizations within the Finance industry, Logistics, E-Commerce industry, Automobile segment, Manufacturing sector, IT industry, Educational sector, and Healthcare sector (KPOs).

### Why does your organization need IP restriction for G Suite? {#why-does-your-organization-need-ip-restriction-for-gsuite?}

Startups, mid-level organizations, and enormous enterprises are shifting over advanced cloud services to streamline their processing. G Suite, one of the foremost used cloud technologies, offers piles of services like Emailing, Google Calendar, Document – Presentation, file sharing, video apps, etc in a single package. As Google suite provides multiple offerings to numerous people directly, G Suite must cope up with multidimensional cloud computing security challenges. Although Google as a brand keeps no stone unturned to keep their users’ data safe with robust security protection, it still becomes difficult to cope up with distinct cyber threats within the cyber world.

Therefore, multiple cloud security companies came with the feature of IP restriction for G Suite. It enables the admin to shortlist IP addresses or a specific range of addresses, which then lets users transfer data or do further services from those registered IPs only. This IP restriction method indirectly prevents spoofing through manual defining of  IP ranges. Overall, there exist two ways of enabling IP restriction for Google Suite, One through a manual process or third-party cloud Security vendor.

### Why use miniOrange to protect your G Suite Data? {#why-use-miniOrange-to-protect-your-gsuite-data?}

Enabling IP restriction for G Suite manually demands a high-versed technical person to handle the utilization case. If the person lacks technical knowledge and performs something wrong then your G Suite cloud security risk level might increase unexpectedly. So here we need an advanced cloud security system that will overcome these issues and provide a top-notch security solution to your G suite organizational data.

Here miniOrange comes in and offers all-in-one protection measures to the businesses using G Suite. It also renders g suite security with IP restriction standards to supply high-level security to your organizational G Suite data. To implement **[IP restriction for G Suite](https://www.miniorange.com/configure-google-workspace-ip-restriction)** for your organization or business is a simple walk with miniOrange. You don’t have to put in extra effort as an enterprise to disturb the implementation of Google account security during a business.

miniOrange takes full control and visibility of organizational data, which is stored on Google. It also allows IT administrators to analyze the employee’s behavior towards enterprise data. On detection of a possible breach, it instantly sends an alert email message to notify higher business authorities. miniOrange also renders the program to enforce access control standards at the macro level on the idea of the device, IP address, time, browser, geolocation, etc.

You can follow the steps given here to set up IP restrictions and other **[Adaptive MFA](https://www.miniorange.com/products/adaptive-multi-factor-authentication-mfa)** methods for your applications. 

![G Suite IP restrictions](/blog/assets/2023/gsuite-features.webp)

**G Suite Automated Security Measures provided by miniOrange:**

Following listed are security measures provided by miniOrange,

**1. Access Control** : Access control specifies data control policies on the idea of location, device, IP address, and other means through which  G Suite content is often accessed. It imposes conditional policies on customer’s Google for business accounts and creates a virtual secure environment.

- [IP Restriction](https://www.miniorange.com/configure-google-workspace-ip-restriction): Restricts user access from unknown IP addresses to ensure corporate data is accessible only through IPs defined by the IT admin.
- [Geo (Location) Restriction](https://www.miniorange.com/configure-google-workspace-location-restriction#:~:text=On%20the%20Add%20Policy%20tab,the%20UP%20%26%20DOWN%20navigation%20keys.): Here a selected geographical area is assigned, to stop corporate data from being accessed from unauthorized remote locations.
- [Time Restriction](https://www.miniorange.com/configure-google-workspace-time-restriction): In time restriction, you as a corporation can fix specific timings, so hereafter any employee can access and work around corporate data within a specified time-frame. (e.g working hours)
- Browser Restriction: With miniOrange you’ll  register a specific browser, so hereafter an organizational employee can access corporate data as long as he’s using the required registered browser
- [Device Restriction](https://www.miniorange.com/configure-google-workspace-device-restriction): In Device Restriction user’s relatable devices like his mobile or Pc are going to be registered, if a specific user tries to log into the enterprise portal through unregistered or unknown devices he won’t be allowed to access

**2. DLP Policy**: Data loss prevention standard policy is appended by miniOrange during this consolidated Google Security software. These policies make sure that employees won’t send confidential business information outside the business network. Whenever the IP restriction for G Suite solution detects the occurrence of such an incident, it immediately blocks the user access and sends an alert mail to the business authority.
Aside from this, many other subsequent security measures are provided by miniOrange.

**Specific G-Suite security features provided by miniOrange:**

- Administrators can prefer to apply rules to specific individuals, groups, or the whole organization differently.
- Rules are often set during a hierarchy, allowing flexible management.
- Predefined IP locations white list where a user is allowed to access from.
- No firewall or installations are required.
- Easy policy settings.

### Conclusion {#conclusion}

Being a neighborhood of the high-versed cyber world, it’s an important need of enterprises to adopt a high-versed Security Solution for G Suite. To manage advanced security for the G suite with other multiple activities becomes a daunting task for an organization and IT admins. Though it’d be difficult to manage security norms it’s the necessity of the time considering trending cyber-attacks. So it’s better to approach security-as-a-service providers. There are few cloud security providers, which give top-notch security services. But before choosing any cloud Security Service provider ensure they did it confidentially, with the simplest technical support at a budgeted price. Accordingly, I feel miniOrange here fits within the best considering these points. You can schedule a free demo with them to ascertain how IP restriction for G Suite works and how it can add an extra edge to your organizational security.

### Further Reading {#further-reading}

- [What is IP Restriction?](https://www.miniorange.com/iam/solutions/ip-restriction#:~:text=IP%20Restriction%20Solution%20allows%20administrators,and%20registered%20IP%20addresses%20range.)
- [Google Workspace Multifactor Authentication](https://www.miniorange.com/google-apps-two-factor-authentication-(2fa))
- [Adaptive Authentication ](https://www.miniorange.com/products/adaptive-multi-factor-authentication-mfa)
- [Risk-based Authentication (RBA)](https://www.miniorange.com/iam/solutions/risk-based-authentication-rba)

IP Restriction for G Suite allows secure login and restricts unauthorized access based on IP address, geolocation, time, and the device.

What is G Suite IP Restriction? Enable IP Restriction for G Suite


### Managing Access to Legacy and Cloud Applications {# Managing Access to Legacy and Cloud Applications}
Enterprises/Organizations’ needs to preserve and grow virtual workforces while protecting digital transformation efforts have constantly fueled the IAM market. As a result, numerous standards and methodologies for ensuring access for businesses have been developed. 

With the advent of web applications in the industry in the early 1990s, companies turned to Web Access Management (WAM) systems to manage [authentication and authorization](https://www.miniorange.com/blog/authentication-authorization-difference/) to corporate resources. WAM is more commonly known as **Header Based Authentication**, as the user request is authenticated based on the header values of the request. 

The **Federated authentication standards** used today, gained prominence in the early 2000s, and SaaS, PaaS, and IaaS began to gain a foothold in the enterprise, with businesses centralizing their [Identity and Access Management (IAM)](https://blog.miniorange.com/what-is-iam-identity-and-access-management-system/) programs around [IDaaS (Identity-as-a-Service)](https://blog.miniorange.com/what-is-identity-as-a-service-idaas/).

Regardless of how new a company is, it will inevitably possess legacy resources that rely on earlier generation technologies. Because legacy apps are still used by enterprises, a comprehensive IAM architecture cannot ignore them as Enterprises need to SSO into these legacy applications for a seamless user experience. Thus the employed IAM solution must support both legacy and modern technology applications.

 

### Legacy Authentication methods (Web Access Management or WAM) {# Legacy Authentication methods (Web Access Management or WAM)}
Web Access Management is a legacy authentication mechanism for managing authentication and authorization to corporate resources. It was first utilized in the early 1990s. 

A WAM system requests authentication from the end user, then injects identity data via the HTTP headers of a user’s browser’s HTTP request, for consumption by the protected application. This is more commonly referred to as Header Based SSO. These Header values can be configured as required for the application and are sent to the application via an application proxy. 

The following are some of the advantages of employing Application Proxies’ native support for header-based authentication:

- **Provide remote access to your on-premises apps with ease**: App Proxy makes existing remote access architecture easier to manage by eliminating the need for VPN access and on-premises identity management. Users’ sign-in flows remain unchanged, and they can work from any location on any device.  
- **No need to install any extra software**: There is no need to install any extra software or make any changes to your apps because current Application Proxy connectors can be used.
- **A large number of attributes and transformations are available**: Because all header values are adjustable, there is a large number of attributes and transformations to choose from.

![Legacy authentication model](/blog/assets/2023/legacy-authentication-model.webp)

 

### Traditional WAM models are divided into two categories {# Traditional WAM models are divided into two categories}
#### **Agent/plugin-based models**  
In agent/plugin-based models, an agent/plugin is installed on each app or web server. These agents/plugins intercept HTTP requests before they’re sent to the target application (to read the HTTP header data), communicate with the centralized policy server, and enforce access rules. This solution eliminates the requirement for all traffic to be routed through a proxy, allowing for a distributed design, but it comes with the cost of needing to install, update, and administering agent software on each app server in your environment.

#### **Proxy-based models**  
In Proxy-based models, all web traffic is routed through a network traffic manager, where HTTP requests can be rejected or authorized based on policies. This paradigm presented a single point of failure, but it also provided protocol-level granular access control without the need for software installation. 

### Modern Authentication Methods (SAML/OAuth/OpenID) {# Modern Authentication Methods (SAML/OAuth/OpenID)}
Modern authentication techniques, unlike Legacy authentication methods, use a token-based approach. In this paradigm, an identity provider provides a token with information about the user to the application (service provider), such as a JSON Web Token (JWT) or SOAP payload. This token contains user claims that can be used by the application code to make access decisions.

The token paradigm exchanges information between the [identity provider (IdP)](https://blog.miniorange.com/what-is-an-identity-provider-idp/) and the service provider (SP), which is the app, using the end user’s encrypted browser context. Because this architecture does not require direct communication between the IdP and the SP, no networking changes are necessary, no agents are required, and traffic does not need to be routed through a proxy. These advantages have contributed to the creation and popularity of SAML and OIDC, and traditional WAM approaches are now out of favor.

![Modern authentication model](/blog/assets/2023/modern-authentication-model.webp)

 
### Unified IAM Solution for both Legacy and Modern Applications {#Unified IAM Solution for both Legacy and Modern Applications}
As previously stated, all organizations, no matter how young, inevitably have a mix of cloud and legacy resources in their environment, necessitating the use of an IAM solution that provides a seamless, single sign-on experience for end users whether they’re accessing on-premise legacy applications or SaaS solutions.

![miniOrange Unified IAM Model](/blog/assets/2023/miniorange-unified-iam-model.webp)

miniOrange’s [IAM solution](https://www.miniorange.com/) provides best-of-breed architecture by utilizing all available resources to provide a smooth [SSO experience](https://www.miniorange.com/products/single-sign-on-sso). Using miniOrange Legacy Application [SSO modules](https://www.miniorange.com/integrations/), the IAM solution integrates with the existing legacy application, providing users with a seamless, single sign-on experience, regardless of whether the application they are accessing is Legacy or Modern. 
 

### Benefit of unified approach {# Benefit of unified approach}
This solution offers secure and smooth access to any application or resource irrespective of the authentication method supported by them.

Adopt Standards— Embracing SSO standards such as SAML for application access helps maintain IT architecture flexible.
Remove Redundancy—By fully exploiting the features of IdaaS and network traffic managers, legacy WAM providers may sometimes be completely eliminated from the environment.
Scale and Performance—Traffic Managers and Reverse Proxies are designed to protect some of the world’s most complex applications.
Consumer-Grade End User Experience—Extend miniOrange’s best-in-class SSO user experience to apps that IdaaS solutions aren’t built for.
Support for all new use cases—Integration with miniOrange IdaaS positions your organization to enforce [Multi-Factor Authentication](https://www.miniorange.com/products/multi-factor-authentication-mfa) and safeguard the mobile experience for all of your company’s web apps.
 

### Conclusion {# Conclusion}
By embracing the cloud, organizations can accelerate and gain significant advantages over less agile competition. Needless to say, as the shift cannot happen overnight, organizations will need to maintain their legacy systems for the time being. IT transformation will be accelerated by a modern identity management platform and a smart access management approach that bridges the gap between trusted on-premises applications and the new technologies being adopted.

 

#### **Getting Started with Your Free Trial**
Visit https://www.miniorange.com/businessfreetrial to start your 30-day free trial of our IAM services and see how simple it is to overcome identity and access management difficulties in the cloud.



Extends Modern authentication for users into enterprise Legacy applications, allowing users to login using the same username and password across both, modern and legacy applications.

Header Based Authentication


### What is IDaaS? {#what-is-idaas}

**Identity-as-a-Service (IDaaS)** is an [Identity and Access Management (IAM)](https://www.miniorange.com/iam/) solution for cloud apps or in other words, a Cloud Identity Provider (IDP) that provides a secure and scalable way for growing organizations to manage their employees, stakeholders, and customers’ identities and provisioning to various applications and resources.

“As a Service” typically means that a third-party provider is rendering a specific service for businesses. For example, you might be aware of “software as a service” which means that a third-party provider is rendering service via their software similarly, IDaaS means that a third-party IDP (Identity Provider) or IAM (Identity and Access Management) delivers Identity Management and [User Provisioning](https://www.miniorange.com/products/user-provisioning) services.

IDaaS solutions offer a range of services such as [Single Sign-On (SSO)](https://www.miniorange.com/products/single-sign-on-sso), [Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)](https://www.miniorange.com/products/multi-factor-authentication-mfa), User Provisioning/De-Provisioning, and [User Lifecycle Management](https://www.miniorange.com/products/user-lifecycle-management). With IDaaS, your employees, stakeholders, and customers can securely access various applications and resources of your businesses or products. It also enables access management to sensitive data and applications to enhance security and ensure compliance with various regulations and policies.
 

### When did IDaaS Emerge? {#when-did-idaas-emerge}

**IDaaS (Identity-as-a-Service)** emerged as a concept and solution in the field of identity and access management (IAM) in the late 2000s. The exact date of its emergence can be attributed to around 2008-2009 when the term “IDaaS” began to gain popularity and solutions started to emerge in the market.

During this time, organizations were increasingly moving their IT infrastructure and services to the cloud, and there was a growing need for cloud identity management solutions where an IDaaS provider manages & delivers complete IAM services for cloud apps. Slowly, IDaaS in cloud computing became popular, and now it is used by most modern businesses.

### How Does IDaaS Work? {#how-does-idaas-work}

IDaaS typically includes several core components, including a **user directory**, **authentication**, **provisioning services**, Identity Governance (IGA), and administration tools. The user directory is a central repository that stores information about users who could be your organization’s employees, stakeholders, and customers. The information which is stored can be the usernames, passwords, and access permissions. 

Authentication and User Provisioning services provide the means for users to securely log in to the organization’s applications and access the required resources, while Identity Governance (IGA) and administration tools enable administrators to manage user identities, roles, and permissions.

IDaaS works by providing a standardized way for applications and services to interact with the user directory, authentication, and provisioning services. This is typically achieved through the use of industry-standard protocols and APIs, such as SAML, OpenID Connect, and OAuth.

![IDaaS Working](/blog/assets/2023/identity-as-a-service-working.webp)

When a user tries to access an application, the application sends a request to the IDaaS platform to authenticate the user and determine the level of access permissions they have been granted. The IDaaS platform then checks the user’s credentials against the user directory, and if the user is authenticated, returns a token that the application can use to authorize the user’s access.

IDaaS or Identity-as-a-Service Platforms like miniOrange offer a convenient and secure way for organizations and businesses to manage user identities and provisioning across multiple applications and services while reducing the burden of managing their own Identity & Access Management infrastructure. 

When you buy an IDaaS membership, your organization gets an API and/or a centralized configuration portal. You may use either to link your app suite with the service provider’s identity products and deliver capabilities like Single Sign-On (SSO), [Social Login](https://www.miniorange.com/products/social-login), [Adaptive Authentication](https://www.miniorange.com/products/adaptive-multi-factor-authentication-mfa), and more. This is a smart way to optimize costs associated with authentication and identity management.
 
### What are the Benefits of IDaaS? {#what-are-the-benefits-of-idaas}
- **Decreased costs**: Using a cloud-based IDaaS solution reduces the need for expensive equipment, skilled IT professionals, and continuing training, letting your IT team focus on day-to-day operations.
- **Better user experiences**: Users may log in with a single set of credentials using single sign-on and multi-factor authentication, which lowers friction and helps with password resets.
- **Improved income and client loyalty**: A positive first impression generated by a simple login experience leads to increased client interactions and purchases.
- **Risk reduction**: It helps you avoid data breaches, which may cost your company millions of dollars. Also, the hassle of maintaining an Identity-based Security infrastructure is saved when you subscribe to an IDaaS platform.
- **Increased security**: Corrupt individuals with compromised credentials will be unable to enter your system and steal data if you outsource your IAM Services to IDaaS providers.
- **Adaptable to your requirements**: Cloud-based subscription services are flexible enough to adapt to shifting customer bases, such as an inflow of new consumers for special events or promotions. 

### What are the key features of IDaaS? {#what-are-the-key-features-of-idaas}

- **SSO**: Employees, partners, and customers can access all SaaS, mobile, and enterprise apps with a single login utilizing corporate credentials via Single Sign-On.
- **Identity Management**: User identities are stored and managed by an IDP. An Identity Provider may verify user identities using username-password combinations and other variables, or it may simply give a list of customer identities for verification by another service provider.
- **User Provisioning**: Customer data is synchronized with online and corporate apps thanks to SCIM compatibility and connection with on-premises provisioning.
- **Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)**: Adaptive authentication methods—options to ratchet up as risk grows, depending on situational changes, user behavior, or application sensitivity—are commonly included in MFA.
- **Directory Services**: While most businesses choose to link IDaaS with their current client databases, they may choose to employ a cloud Directory Service to assist customers and/or partners.
- **Privileged Access Management (PAM)**: [PAM](https://www.miniorange.com/products/privileged-access-management-pam) is a set of policies, practices, and technologies that enable organizations to control and monitor access to critical systems, applications, and data by privileged users. 

### What is Identity Management? {#what-is-identity-management}

**Identity management** refers to the processes and capabilities provided by the **IDaaS solution** to manage and control digital identities. Organizations can leverage the capabilities provided by the IDaaS provider to manage user identities, authentication, and access to resources. This includes features like User Provisioning, SSO, MFA, Identity Lifecycle Management, Access Control and Authorization, Identity Governance, Self-Service Features, etc.

### What is Identity Governance? {#what-is-identity-governance}

Identity governance, also known as Identity Governance and Administration (IGA), refers to the processes, policies, and technologies that organizations implement to manage and govern user identities and their access to resources. It focuses on ensuring that the right individuals have the appropriate levels of access to the right resources, while also maintaining security, compliance, and accountability.

Identity Governance involves the following key aspects like Identity Lifecycle Management, Role-Based Access Control (RBAC), Access Certification and Review, Policy Enforcement, Audit, and Compliance. The miniOrange IDaaS solution provides Identity governance as one of the features.

### Types of IDaaS {#types-of-idaas}

**IDaaS can be classified into two broad categories based on their feature sets:**

- **Basic**: Suitable for cloud-first, small-to-medium-sized businesses that primarily want SSO for their cloud-based apps. This is best for businesses that have very little onsite/legacy infrastructure.
- **Enterprise**: This kind is ideal for bigger organizations with a variety of linked systems. Enterprise solutions offer a significantly broader feature set and can often support a much wider range of operational use cases. Their clients often have a combination of multi-cloud and on-premises infrastructure, necessitating a wide range of APIs for integration. To meet the specialized needs of the business customer, service providers may have to tailor their IDaaS offerings.

### Is IDaaS different from IAM & IDP? {#is-idaaS-different-from-iam-&-idp}

IDaaS (Identity-as-a-Service), IAM (Identity and Access Management) and IDP (Identity Providers) are related concepts. But there are some fundamental differences. Like: 

**IAM Services** refer to the processes, policies, and technologies used to manage user identities and their access to resources within an organization’s IT infrastructure. IAM solutions typically include features like User Provisioning, authentication, and access control. 
IDP, on the other hand, is a component of IAM that is responsible for verifying a user’s identity and providing access to resources based on that identity. An IDP may use various Authentication methods such as Username/Password, Multi-Factor Authentication, or Biometric Authentication to verify the user’s identity.
IDaaS is a cloud-based service that provides identity management and authentication capabilities to organizations. IDaaS solutions are delivered as a service, typically through a subscription model, and can be used to manage user identities across multiple applications and services.


#### **“IDaaS can be referred to as SaaS-based IAM services.”**

So while IAM services refer to the broader concept of managing user identities and access, IDP is a component of IAM and focuses on verifying user identity whereas IDaaS is a specific type of solution that provides identity management as a service. IDaaS solutions often incorporate IAM functionality as part of their service offerings. miniOrange provides both IDaaS & IAM solutions to cater to the varying security needs of different kinds of organizations.

### Why do Enterprises Require Cloud Identity Management Solution? {#why-do-enterprises-require-cloud-identity-management-solution}

Cloud providers have the responsibility to regularly update systems and prevent breaches in IDaaS. Since security is a fundamental element of their business, these cloud providers keep up with the latest threats and technologies, frequently update their network, manage patches and updates, and use qualified security people to monitor solutions. Due to all of this, Identity-as-a-Service makes the risk of data breaches significantly reduced.

Here are some of the key reasons why Enterprises require Cloud Identity Management Solutions:

- **Scalability**: Identity & Access Management solutions for cloud apps can scale to meet the needs of growing enterprises, providing greater flexibility and agility than on-premises solutions.
- **Cost-effectiveness**: Cloud-based solutions can be more cost-effective than traditional on-premise solutions, as they often require less upfront investment and are more efficient to maintain.
- **Remote work**: The rise of remote work has made it more challenging to manage and secure identities across distributed networks. Cloud-based solutions can provide a centralized platform for identity management, reducing the risk of security breaches.
- **Compliance**: Many enterprises are subject to strict regulatory requirements regarding data privacy and security. Cloud-based identity security solutions can help ensure compliance with these regulations.
- **Integration**: Cloud-based identity security solutions can integrate with other cloud-based services, such as SaaS applications, to provide a more comprehensive and streamlined approach to identity management.
- **Threat detection**: They can provide real-time threat detection and response, enabling enterprises to quickly identify and respond to potential security threats.

### Conclusion {#conclusion}
In today’s fast-paced cyber environment, it’s critical for businesses to implement security solutions. It’s even more critical to pick the right Identity and Access Management (IAM) solution for establishing and managing your employees, stakeholders, customers, and clients’ authentication and provisioning. miniOrange offers a variety of IAM solutions that are both efficient and safe. However, before deciding on a cloud security solution provider, ensure that they securely manage your data and give the most basic technical assistance at a reasonable cost. You may sign up for a month of [miniOrange business free trial](https://www.miniorange.com/iam/free-trial) to check out our IAM solutions and make better, more informed decisions.


Take Your Identity Management to the Next Level with IDaaS. Learn Its Features, Benefits, How It Works and many more in this Comprehensive Guide.

Identity-as-a-Service (IDaaS): Everything You Should Know About IDaaS Providers


### What is JWT (JSON Web Token)? {#what-is-jwt-json-web-token}
JWT, or JSON Web Token, is an open standard used to share information between two parties securely — a client and a server. In most cases, it’s an encoded JSON containing a set of claims and a signature. It’s usually used in the context of other authentication mechanisms like OAuth, OpenID to share user-related information. It’s also a popular way to authenticate/authorize users in a microservice architecture.  

JWT authentication is a token-based stateless authentication mechanism. It is popularly used as a client-side-based stateless session, this means the server doesn’t have to completely rely on a data store (or) database to save session information.  

JWTs can be encrypted, but they are typically encoded & signed.  We will be focusing on Signed JWTs. The purpose of Signed JWT is not to hide the data but to ensure the authenticity of the data. And that is why it’s highly recommended to use HTTPS with Signed JWTs.

### Structure of JWT {#structure-of-jwt}
JWT structure is divided into three parts: header, payload, signature & is separated from each other by dot (.), and will follow the below structure:

 

![JSON Web Token(JWT) Structure](/blog/assets/2023/jwt-structure.webp)

 

- Header  
The header consists of two parts:  
1. The signing algorithm being used
2. The type of token, which is in this case mostly “JWT”  
- Payload
The payload usually contains the claims (user attributes) and additional data like issuer, expiration time, and audience.  
- Signature  
This is typically a hash of the header and payload sections of the JWT. The algorithm which is used to create the signature is the same algorithm mentioned in the header section of the JWT. Signature is used to validate that the JWT token wasn’t modified or changed during transit. It can also be used to validate the sender.  

The header and Payload section of the JWT is always Base64 encoded.


### How does JWT Authentication work? When to use JWT Authentication? {#how-does-jwt-authentication-work-when-to-use-jwt-authentication}

When it comes to API authentication and server-to-server authorization, JSON web token (JWT) is particularly a useful technology. In terms of Single Sign-On (SSO), it means that a service provider can receive trustworthy information from the authentication server. 

By sharing a secret key with the Identity Provider, the Service Provider can hash a part of a token it receives and compare it to the signature of the token. Now, if that result matches the signature, the SP knows that the information provided has come from the other entity possessing the key.

The following workflow explains the authentication flow:

![JSON Web Token(JWT) Authentication Workflow](/blog/assets/2023/jwt-workflow.webp)


1. User sign-in using username and password.
2. The authentication server verifies the credentials and issues a JWT signed using a private key.
3. Moving forward, the client will use the JWT to access protected resources by passing the JWT in the HTTP Authorization header.
4. The resource server then verifies the authenticity of the token using the public key.  

The Identity Provider generates a JWT certifying user identity, and the resource server decodes and verifies the authenticity of the token using the public key.

Since the tokens are used for authorization and authentication in future requests and API calls great care must be taken to prevent security issues. These tokens shouldn’t be stored in publicly accessible areas like the browser’s local storage or cookies. In case there are no other choices, then the payload should be encrypted.

### How JWT Single Sign-On (SSO) works for multiple web apps {#how-jwt-single-sign-on-sso-works-for-multiple-web-apps}
Single Sign-On (SSO) allows you to authenticate users in your systems and subsequently informs applications that the user has been authenticated. On successful authentication, a JWT token is generated and returned, which can be consumed by the app to create a user session. The token is automatically verified with the IDP when they sign in. The user is then allowed to access the apps without being prompted to enter separate sign-in credentials.  

This security mechanism allows applications to trust the sign-in requests it gets from the systems. Furthermore, these apps will only grant access to the users who have been authenticated by you/admin & hence Single Sign-On (SSO) relies on JSON Web Token (JWT) for securing the exchange of user authentication data. Great care must be taken in terms of how this token is stored and managed.

### miniOrange JWT Authentication for Apps that don’t Support Standard SSO Protocols {#miniorange-jwt-authentication-for-apps-that-dont-support-standard-sso-protocols}

**Usecase: Create a custom SSO between 2 existing and independent websites with their own user database**

With [miniOrange](https://www.miniorange.com/?utm_source=miniorange+Blog&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=JWT+blog&utm_id=JWT+Blog-sso), you will be able to authenticate from existing User Stores and Identity Providers using protocols like SAML, OAuth OpenID, and SSO into websites that only support JWT Tokens. Yes, you heard it right. miniOrange provides Single Sign-On (SSO) for [JSON Web Token (JWT) apps](https://www.miniorange.com/iam/integrations/). This solution allows you to set up [Single Sign-On (SSO)](https://www.miniorange.com/products/single-sign-on-sso?utm_source=miniorange+Blog&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=JWT+blog&utm_id=JWT+Blog-sso) into your applications (say existing or independent), which does not support SSO Standard Protocols (like SAML 2.0, etc).  

This is done using JSON Web Token (JWT) tokens, and it can be easily integrated with your application built in any framework or language. This allows you to enable SSO for any mobile app, client-side apps, static sites which don’t support any SSO standard protocols and are built on platforms like React.js, Firebase, Cordova, Angular.js, etc. 

![miniOrange integration flow with jwt token](/blog/assets/2023/mo-integration-flow-with-jwt.webp)

&nbsp;  

#### **miniOrange makes it easy to enable SSO for your application with a simple 3-step process. All you need to do is:**

1. Embed a simple script on your site/app
2. Configure your Identity Provider/user store in miniOrange (optional)
3. Add a JWT App  

&nbsp;  

That’s it!! You can choose to either manage users in miniOrange or choose an external Identity Provider/user store. You can even enable MFA on top of SSO with just a configuration change, no other script changes or coding required. 

&nbsp;  

&nbsp;

#### **Checkout miniOrange’s JWT SSO solution for Most Trending Apps:**

- [Thinkific SSO](https://www.miniorange.com/thinkific-jwt-single-signon(sso)-solution?utm_source=miniorange+Blog&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=JWT+blog&utm_id=JWT+Blog-sso)
- [Webflow SSO](https://www.miniorange.com/webflow-single-sign-on-sso?utm_source=miniorange+Blog&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=JWT+blog&utm_id=JWT+Blog-sso)
- [Squarespace SSO](https://www.miniorange.com/squarespace-single-sign-on-sso?utm_source=miniorange+Blog&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=JWT+blog&utm_id=JWT+Blog-sso)
- [BigCommerce SSO](https://www.miniorange.com/bigcommerce-single-sign-on-sso?utm_source=miniorange+Blog&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=JWT+blog&utm_id=JWT+Blog-sso)  

&nbsp;  

&nbsp;  

#### **Additional Helpful Links:**

- [Setup SSO authentication using JWT (JSON Web Token) | SSO for JWT apps | JWT Authentication| JWT SSO](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8lSsEQm_J6E)
- [Setup SSO for any JWT Application](https://www.miniorange.com/iam/content-library/admin-docs/how-to-add-jwt-app)
- [Popular apps that use JWT for SSO](https://www.miniorange.com/iam/integrations/)

What is JWT (JSON Web Token)? JWT, or JSON Web Token, is an open standard used to share information between two parties securely — a client and a server.

What is JWT (JSON Web Token)? How does JWT Authentication work?


Sensitive data in a company's infrastructure, if left vulnerable by securing with just traditional usernames and passwords, is prone to cyber attacks. This calls for the need for a more secure method of authentication. What if you have many methods to choose from in order to make it more challenging for a user to login to their accounts? This is where multiple authentication methods from multi-factor authentication (MFA) come into play.

In this article, we will learn about MFA, its working, authentication methods, use cases, benefits, miniOrange MFA, and future trends.


### What is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) in Cybersecurity? {#what-is-mfa}

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is a security method requiring multiple credentials to verify a user's identity. It enhances security, protects against cyber threats, aids regulatory compliance, and can be user-friendly.  

  
MFA adds an extra authentication layer to access resources, requiring users to authenticate with two or more factors beyond usernames and passwords. These factors can include OTP over SMS/email, push notifications, or Google/Microsoft authenticator.  



### Why Use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)? {#why-use-mfa}

Users often make it easier for hackers by choosing weak passwords, reusing passwords across multiple applications, storing them insecurely, and not updating them regularly. These practices may help users remember their credentials but also make it easier for hackers to gain access.  

  

The 2019 Data Breach Investigations Report found that 81% of account breaches were due to leaked or weak passwords (e.g., "password," "admin").  

- 92% of organizations have credentials for sale on the Dark Web.
- 81% of data breaches are the result of weak or stolen passwords.
- 90% of passwords can be cracked in less than six hours.

These factors underscore the importance of using Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). By combining your username and password with MFA, your access becomes more secure.  

In our work with various organizations, we've seen the devastating impact of security breaches caused by weak authentication methods. For example, a major healthcare provider we consulted suffered a significant data breach due to compromised passwords, resulting in millions of dollars in damages and loss of patient trust. Implementing MFA could have prevented this incident.


### How Does MFA Work? {#how-does-mfa-work}

Drawing from our experience in implementing MFA systems for Fortune 500 companies, we can attest to the effectiveness of this layered approach. For example, when a user attempts to access a protected resource:  

1. They enter their username and password (first factor).
2. The system then prompts for a second factor, such as a fingerprint scan or a one-time code sent to their smartphone.
3. Only after successfully providing both factors is access granted.  


As the user attempts to gain access to a specific resource, they are prompted with multiple authentication factors instead of only one. The user credentials are then verified by a core identity provider (IdP) or directory services platform, and the user gains access to the requested resource. Most MFA systems use a one-time passcode (OTP) for each login attempt. miniOrange offers 15+ MFA methods, which we will cover later in this blog.  

 

### Multi-Factor Authentication Methods {#mfa-methods}

Multi-Factor Authentication takes the help of these factors to authenticate a particular individual.    

1. **Knowledge factor** is something that a user remembers, like "first password," "first school name," "a pin," etc.
2. **Possession factor** is something the user has, such as a mobile device, smartphone app, or security token to approve authentication requests.
3. **Inherence factor**, mainly referred to as a biometric factor, is something different in the user's physical self. These could also be personal attributes like fingerprint, retina, or voice.
4. **Location factor** usually denotes the location from which an authentication attempt is being made. Location-based MFA methods can limit user access when a user breaks out from the given location.
5. **The time factor** restricts user authentication to a specific time panel in which logging on is granted and restricts access to the system outside of that window. In simpler terms, we called it time-based OTP (TOTP). Mobile apps like Microsoft Authenticator, Google Authenticator, and miniOrange Authenticator provide a key code that's time-dependent up to limited seconds.  

In our work with financial institutions, we've found that a combination of possession and inherence factors provides the highest level of security.


### Multi-Factor Authentication vs. Two-Factor Authentication {#mfa-vs-2fa}
  

|Aspect   |  MFA  |  2FA  |
|---------|-------|-------|
|Definition| An authentication method that requires two or more factors of authentication. | An authentication method that requires exactly two factors of authentication. |
| Subset | MFA is a broader term that includes 2FA as a subset. | 2FA is a specific type of MFA that uses exactly two factors. |
| Security | MFA is considered to be more secure because it uses multiple layers of authentication. |2FA can still be vulnerable if one of the factors is compromised. However, it’s still a highly secure protocol. |
| Ease of Use | MFA might be more complex to implement and use due to the involvement of more than two factors. | [2FA](https://www.miniorange.com/products/two-factor-authentication-(2fa)) is often easier to implement and use as it involves only two factors. |
| Examples | Entering a password (something you know), verifying a code sent to your smartphone (something you have), and scanning your fingerprint (something you are). | Entering a password and then confirming your identity through a code sent to your mobile phone.|  

  


### Authentication Challenges for the User in Multi-factor Authentication {#authentication-challenges-for-user-in-mfa}

Users who have to remember multiple passwords will find it difficult to use MFA if they add security features. MFA aims to simplify MFA for users. These are some main approaches to simplifying MFA.  

**[Adaptive MFA](https://www.miniorange.com/products/adaptive-multi-factor-authentication-mfa)**

This applies business rules and policies to user-based elements such as location or device. A corporate VPN may know that a user can sign in from their home, seeing their location and assessing the risk of misuse or compromise. An employee accessing the VPN through a coffee shop can trigger the system, and you will be required to enter MFA credentials.  

  
**Push Notification**

This method allows the security system to issue a third, single-use ID code to the user's smartphone. To access a secure system, users can enter their user ID or password. A security system will then issue a third single-use code to their mobile devices. To gain access, users must enter the code into the system. Push authentication makes MFA easier by giving users the third code. This eliminates the need for them to remember it.  


### Multi-Factor Authentication Use Cases {#mfa-usecases}


**MFA over VPN**

A global organization with a distributed workforce implements [multi-factor Authentication (MFA) over its VPN](https://www.miniorange.com/iam/solutions/vpn-mfa-multi-factor-authentication) to enhance security.This implementation not only strengthens security but also improves operational efficiency and regulatory compliance. It's a robust solution for securing remote network access, making it a worthwhile investment for companies looking to enhance their VPN security.  

miniOrange MFA over VPN is a robust solution for securing remote network access. It supports a range of VPNs, including Cisco, Palo Alto, Fortinet, SonicWall, and OpenVPN, making it a worthwhile investment for companies looking to enhance their VPN security.  

&nbsp;  

**MFA for Windows**

Implementing Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) for Windows enhances security for logon and [Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP)]sessions. The process involves configuring the RADIUS client/server in miniOrange, setting up the Windows VPN client, and enabling 2FA for end users, with options like Google Authenticator.  

The Windows MFA solution integrates with Active Directory/LDAP for identity management and offers customizable MFA policies based on roles, groups, or applications. It supports device-based and cross-domain MFA, allowing logins for accounts on any trusted domain or local Windows accounts. Offline MFA ensures security even when disconnected from the internet using soft tokens, authenticator apps, and backup codes.  

&nbsp;  


**MFA for Web Apps**

Our MFA can be enabled for any of your [web apps](https://faq.miniorange.com/knowledgebase/how-to-enable-2fa-mfa-for-a-particular-app/) anywhere on the internet to ensure a secure and efficient way of accessing your critical resources. miniOrange offers MFA for a wide range of web applications running on cloud, on-premise servers, or in hybrid environments.

Enhances MFA security across cloud (SAAS), on-premises, and in-house apps, supporting protocols like SAML, Radius, OpenID, and JWT. Integrate MFA seamlessly with in-house web apps.  

&nbsp; 


**MFA for Network Devices**  

Implement MFA security for firewalls, switches, routers, and other [network devices](https://www.miniorange.com/iam/solutions/secure-network-devices)with the miniOrange MFA solution that extends beyond VPNs and fortifies your entire corporate network.  

Leverage Radius & TACACS protocols with miniOrange to encrypt switches and routers based on your network's hardware capabilities and add Multi-Factor Authentication to enhance the security posture. Bonus point is that miniOrange MFA is deployed without requiring any external proxy.  

&nbsp;  

**MFA for Office 365**

Microsoft provides MFA only via their default application with limited MFA methods, and you cannot configure any additional MFA authentication method. In some cases, you need to spend an enormous amount for licensing and user differentiation, and if you need to activate or deactivate for the particular user you have. However, with miniOrange [MFA for Office 365](https://www.miniorange.com/two-factor-authentication-(2fa)-for-office-365) it is possible to add more MFA methods.  

miniOrange MFA integration for Microsoft Applications allows you to use [Yubikey](https://www.miniorange.in/iam/content-library/admin-docs/configure-multi-factor-authentication#:~:text=a%202FA%20method.-,YubiKey%20Hardware%20Token,-%22YubiKey%20hardware%20Token) (or the other method from 15+ available MFA methods) as the multi-factor to login into your Office 365 or any of your Microsoft Applications.  



### Benefits of MFA {#benefits-of-mfa}
Implementing MFA isn't just about security—it's a strategic move that safeguards your company's most valuable digital assets. Beyond thwarting cyber threats, MFA demonstrates a commitment to data integrity that can bolster client trust and give you a competitive edge as we enter a security-conscious market.  

1. **Compliance**: [Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)](https://www.miniorange.com/products/multi-factor-authentication-mfa) helps organizations meet regulatory requirements and industry standards. By implementing MFA, companies can ensure they are compliant with data protection laws and regulations, reducing the risk of legal penalties, meeting the requirements for cybersecurity insurance, and enhancing their reputation.
2. **Enhanced Security**: Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) decreases the probability that an attacker can mimic a user and may gain access to the system. miniOrange MFA solution allows users to log in using username and OTP, thus preventing the necessity to enter the password.
3. **More Productivity and Flexibility**: Organizations are accepting mobility because it helps in increasing productivity. Employees can securely login and access corporate applications and resources from virtually any device and from any location, without putting the corporate network at risk.
4. **Reduced Operating Costs**: Implementing MFA reduces the probability of data breaches, resulting in reduced investment.  

In a recent case study involving a mid-sized technology firm, our implementation of MFA resulted in:  

- 99.9% reduction in account compromise incidents
- 30% decrease in IT support calls related to account lockouts
- $500,000 annual savings in potential breach-related costs  

These results underscore the tangible benefits of MFA in real-world scenarios.


### miniOrange MFA Solutions {#miniorange-mfa-solutions}

#### **Key Features of [miniOrange MFA Solutions](https://www.miniorange.com/iam/solutions/multi-factor-authentication-mfa-solutions):**  

#### **Zero Trust Authentication**
The Zero Trust approach within 2FA helps to create an effective environment, policies, and infrastructure to minimize data breaches.

#### **Support for Cloud and On-premise**
Flexible deployment options, like on-premise and cloud. Seamlessly integrates into your organization's existing environment.

#### **Offline Authentication**
Allow users to log in even if there is no internet available by using offline 2FA methods such as soft tokens and security questions.

#### **Passwordless Authentication**
2FA login for users using just username and OTP/TOTP, thus preventing the need to enter password.

#### **Role-based 2FA**
Admin can enable or disable 2FA for a specific user role and for any particular application.

#### **User Self Enrollment**
It offers inline registration of users, so you'll simply activate and setup 2FA, and you're ready.

#### **Custom SMS/EMAIL Gateway & Templates**
Templates for SMS and email that are sent to users containing OTPs for authentication are also completely customizable.

#### **Reporting and Auditing**
Stay informed on all user logins. Get complete reports on all user activities in a single dashboard: session management, user monitoring, user login audit, user & admin activity reports, etc.



### Future Ready: MFA Trends to Mitigate Automated Cyberattacks {#future-ready}

The more the data, the more is the need to protect it. This implies that cybersecurity is a journey, not a destination. And at the heart of this journey is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). It's evolving, becoming smarter and more intuitive. Imagine logging in with just your fingerprint, facial recognition, or even your typing speed!  

But it's not just about convenience. MFA is a powerful shield against cyber threats. In fact, it blocks 99.9% of automated attacks. That's why, whether you're a start-up or a big corporation, MFA is a must-have for your security toolkit.  

And when it comes to MFA, miniOrange is your trusted companion. We're here to guide you through the increasing threats in cybersecurity, ensuring your digital identity is always protected. With miniOrange, you're not just safe; you're future-ready. [Connect with us](https://www.miniorange.com/products/multi-factor-authentication-mfa#request-demo) for your MFA-related queries and use cases today.  

&nbsp;  


### Further Reading {#further-reading} 

- [What is Adaptive Authentication in IAM?](https://www.miniorange.com/products/adaptive-multi-factor-authentication-mfa)
- [What are the benefits of Passwordless Authentication?](https://www.miniorange.com/iam/solutions/passwordless-authentication)
- [Drupal Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)](https://plugins.miniorange.com/drupal-two-factor-authentication-2fa)
- [Securing VPN with Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)](https://www.miniorange.com/iam/solutions/vpn-mfa-multi-factor-authentication)

Explore multi-factor authentication (MFA) methods, their concept, and their use cases. Learn about miniOrange multi-factor authentication.

What is Multi-factor Authentication for Improved Identity Security?


**Out Of Band Authentication (OOBA)** is a type of two-factor authentication (2FA) that demands a secondary verification method delivered over a different communication channel (call or text) in addition to the typical user ID and password. The possibility of compromising the transaction/account decreases by splitting the process into two channels, employing both the user’s internet and mobile wireless connection. An attacker is unlikely to be able to compromise both channels in the short amount of time required for an online transaction to take place.

Financial firms and other companies with high-security requirements employ out-of-band (OOB) authentication to prevent unwanted access. OOBA improves cybersecurity by making it more difficult to hack an account because it requires two different and unrelated authentication channels to be compromised at the same time for an attacker to get access.

### How Does Out-of-Band Authentication (OOBA) Work? {# How Does Out-of-Band Authentication (OOBA) Work?}

The channel used to authenticate a customer in an out-of-band authentication (OOBA) system is completely independent of the channel used by the customer to log in or make a transaction. Out-of-band authentication, as opposed to multi-factor authentication, is a sort of 2FA (something you know, like a password, and something you have, like your mobile device).  

Let’s imagine a customer wishes to do a banking transaction on their computer. They use their username and password to access the online banking system. The system then sends a one-time password (OTP) to their mobile device by text message or push notification. The user’s internet and wireless network are both involved in this scenario.  

Malicious actors may have access to compromised credentials and use a laptop to make a transaction, but they rarely have access to the user’s smartphone to obtain the one-time password required for authorization unless additional means like call forwarding, cloning, phone theft, or other ways are used. The transaction cannot be completed without the OTP. Other Out-of-Band Authentication techniques, such as a fingerprint scan or QR code, could be used instead of an OTP by the company.

![Out Of Band Authentication Working](/blog/assets/2023/how-ooba-works.webp)  

### How is OOBA more beneficial than other authentication methods? {#How is OOBA more beneficial than other authentication methods?}

Using [Two-factor authentication (2FA)](https://www.miniorange.com/products/two-factor-authentication-(2fa)) for Out-of-Band Authentication may appear to be a hassle to you; as you have to go through an extra step to log on to your accounts and access resources. Traditional authentication does not work in this fast-paced digital environment when cyber criminals are seeking critical consumer data. You might be leaving yourself open to thieves who want to steal your data and personal information if you don’t use 2FA Security.  

Out-of-band authentication is critical in [identity and access management](https://blog.miniorange.com/what-is-iam-identity-and-access-management-system/) because it significantly minimizes the risk of a “man-in-the-middle” attack. Hackers can intercept data transferring channels by taking over the communication channel between the sender and the recipient in an MITM attack.  

In access management, using two different channels to authenticate lowers the risk of MITM attacks and keeps the transmitted information safe.

### Key benefits of using Out Of Band Authentication (OOBA) {#Key benefits of using Out Of Band Authentication (OOBA)}

#### **Fraud Prevention**
Before allowing you to proceed, [Multi-Factor Authentication](https://www.miniorange.com/products/multi-factor-authentication-mfa) confirms that you are who you say you are. It adds another degree of protection to your website, preventing unwanted access. 

#### **Improved Customer Trust**
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of security to your business and your customers’ accounts. It safeguards customer information against identity theft.  

#### **Enhanced Security**
MFA reduces the likelihood that an attacker will be able to impersonate a user and obtain access to the system. The miniOrange MFA solution allows users to log in using only their Username and OTP, eliminating the need for a password.  

#### **Adaptability for different use cases**
When dealing with sensitive data, more caution is necessary. The adaptive MFA evaluates risk based on factors including geo location, IP address, and time since the previous login.  

&nbsp;  

As a result, out-of-band authentication (OOBA) is utilized to secure your devices, accounts, and data from security breaches, phishing, and brute-force password attempts. Knowing the password alone isn’t enough for cyber attackers to pass the security check if you’ve set 2FA protection.  


### How can miniOrange help you? {#How can miniOrange help you?}

miniOrange Authentication Service verifies that you are who you claim to be before letting you move forward. We ensure that however varied your user base may be, we have the right authentication method for each one of them.  

&nbsp;  

**OOBA**: OTP/Link over SMS/EmailOTP over text/call using SMS/Email: miniOrange offers OTP via SMS/Email via the default gateway, which users can access. The templates for sending OTP to your users by SMS and email are entirely customizable as well.  

&nbsp;  

**Link over SMS/Email**: When this option is enabled, you will receive an SMS/email containing an Accept Link and a Deny Link at the moment of verification. If you click the Accept button, your transaction will be completed; otherwise, it will not.  

&nbsp;  

**OOBA Push NotificationPush notifications**: When the push notification mechanism is enabled, you will receive a push notification from miniOrange on your Authenticator App, which you either accept or deny. You can successfully finish the second-factor challenge after clicking Accept.  

&nbsp;  

**Authenticator apps**: Receive a time-based OTP token (TOTP) by an external authenticator app such as Google/Microsoft authenticator for secure login.  

&nbsp;  

**Hardware Token**: Use of a physical USB token in your computer, which generates the required information to gain access.  

&nbsp;  

For any firm or organization trying to increase security, using multiple authentication methods is a clear choice. It secures client information and protects against security breaches. It benefits everyone: customers are less likely to have their data stolen, and organizations are less likely to suffer a significant data breach.  

&nbsp;  

&nbsp;  

#### **Further Reading:**
1. [Multi-Factor Authentication](https://blog.miniorange.com/what-is-multi-factor-authentication-mfa/)
2. [The necessity of Banking Cybersecurity](https://blog.miniorange.com/necessity-of-banking-cybersecurity/)
3. [What is Risk-Based Authentication?](https://blog.miniorange.com/what-is-risk-based-authentication/)

Out Of Band Authentication (OOBA) is a type of 2FA that uses a secondary verification method delivered over a different communication channel.

What is Out-Of-Band Authentication (OOBA)?


### What is SSO? {#what-is-sso}

**Single Sign-On (SSO)** is an authentication process in which a user is provided access to multiple applications and/or websites by using only a single set of login credentials (such as username and password). This prevents the need for the user to log separately into the different applications.

The user credentials and other identifying information are stored and managed by a centralized system called Identity Provider (IdP). The Identity Provider is a trusted system that provides access to other websites and applications.

Single Sign-On (SSO) based authentication systems are commonly used in enterprise environments where employees require access to multiple applications/websites of their organizations. In this scenario, the Single Sign-On service provider uses the organization’s directory, such as Microsoft Active Directory, [Azure Active Directory](https://www.miniorange.com/blog/what-is-azure-active-directory/), or a directory provided by the Single Sign-On solution itself for authenticating users and providing access to the various applications/websites.

### How does Single Sign-On (SSO) work? {#how-does-single-sign-on-sso-work}

![Single Sign On Workflow](/blog/assets/2023/sso-workflow.webp)

The authentication process using miniOrange Single Sign-On (SSO) takes place as described in the following steps:

- The user requests a resource from their desired application/website.
- The application/website redirects the user to miniOrange (Identity Provider) for authentication.
- The user signs in with their miniOrange credentials if no external IdP is configured. If you have an existing Identity Provider (SAML, OAuth/OpenID Connect, etc), miniOrange redirects the user to the existing Identity Provider for authentication.
- The IdP sends a Single Sign-On response to miniOrange.
- miniOrange returns a Single Sign-On response back to the client application/website and
- The application/website grants access to the user.

Now, the user can access all other applications/websites which are configured for SSO. If the user wants to access a resource from another application/website, the application/website checks whether the user has an active session with miniOrange.

### Single Sign-On (SSO) Components {#single-sign-on-sso-components}

- **Identity provider** - User Identity information is stored and managed by a centralized system called Identity Provider (IdP). The Identity Provider authenticates the user and provides access to the service provider. The identity provider can directly authenticate the user by validating a username and password or by validating an assertion about the user’s identity as presented by a separate identity provider.
The identity provider handles the management of user identities in order to free the service provider from this responsibility.
- **Service Provider** - A service provider provides services to the end-user. They rely on identity providers to assert the identity of a user, and typically certain attributes about the user are managed by the identity provider. Service providers may also maintain a local account for the user along with attributes that are unique to their service.
- **Identity Broker** - An identity broker acts as an intermediary that connects multiple service providers with various different identity providers. Using Identity Broker, you can perform single sign-on over any applications without the hassle about the protocol it follows. No need to understand or implement complex SSO protocols like SAML, OpenID, OAuth, CAS or any other. Instead, you can just call the HTTP endpoints and access any identities. The important reason why we should use Identity Broker is that it supports Cross Protocol i.e. configuring Service Provider following a particular protocol with an Identity Provider following some different protocol.

### Key factors to know before implementing SSO {#key-factors-to-know-before-implementing-sso}

Single Sign-On solution is implemented according to the requirements of the client. The implementation will differ from user to user regarding their objectives & needs. That being the case, there are some key factors you should keep in mind before implementing SSO for your system.

- Types of users: If they are permanent/temporary, the number of users should be kept in mind.
- Access: Proper authorization should be given to users according to their designation and or requirements.
- Platform: According to your needs choose whether you want On premises solution or a Cloud Based solution.
- Features: What features are you looking for to ensure only trusted users are logging in? MFA, Adaptive Authentication, Device Trust, IP Address Whitelisting, etc. should be considered. 
- What systems do you need to integrate with?
- Keep educating your employees about password best practices. Let them know what SSO is and how you make the best use of it.

### Benefits of Single Sign-On (SSO) {#benefits-of-single-sign-On-sso}

**How SSO can benefit users?**

- Ease of use: Users only need to remember one set username & password. Eliminating the inconvenience of managing, remembering, and resetting multiple passwords, thus improving productivity with higher conversion rates.
- Transparency: Users know what’s being shared from one system to another. They have all the access to their sensitive information and whom to share it with.
- Ease of access: With Single Sign-On, users don’t have to go through lengthy sign-up and authorization processes.

**How SSO can benefit business?**

- Increased productivity: Employees need access to many apps throughout their workday. They have to spend some time logging in to all those apps with the added difficulty of remembering all the passwords. With Single Sign-On, users can enter just one password to access all of their apps, skip all that extra time spent logging in and use that time more productively.
- Reduced IT cost: Enabling SSO allows users to manage individual dashboards and self-reset passwords, which eliminates the necessity of IT support, saves admin time on password resets and supports tickets to focus on more important tasks. This indirectly helps in reducing IT costs.
- Security and compliance: Security and Compliance factors enforce organizations to prove that they have taken adequate security measures to protect sensitive data. Single Sign-On helps with regulatory compliance to meet data access and security risk protection requirements.
- More user sign-ups: SSO provides a lower barrier to entry, so new customers can sign up easily and securely, by relying on a known brand. Trust is increased, which increases conversions.
- Improves security capabilities: SSO authentication ensures that only authorized users get access to sensitive data. With Single Sign-On you can Implement password policies like Password length, complexity, restrictions on password reuse, session timeout and self-service password reset policy to strengthen security without holding up your users access.
- Efficient Collaboration: Large organizations and enterprises develop their own Single Sign-On solutions so that it is easy to share data, files, and other information across multiple applications. This makes the sharing and collaboration process faster and less expensive.

In short, implementing an SSO solution can make life easier for your users as well as benefits your business.

### What are the limitations of SSO? {#What are the limitations of SSO?}

**1. Single Password Vulnerability**: If your SSO password gets compromised, the security for all the supported apps/websites gets compromised. For example, if a user’s Google Apps password gets stolen by a hacker, the entire range of Google apps like Gmail, Google Docs, Google Drive, etc will be accessible to the hacker.

**2. Slow Process**: The authentication process using Single Sign-On is slower than traditional authentication where each app/website maintains its own database containing user data. This happens because, for every authentication attempt by the user, the application/website has to request the Single Sign-On provider for the user’s verification data.

### Is SSO Secure? {#is-sso-secure}

When single sign-on best practices are followed, a reliable SSO solution can hugely improve security. It ensures that:

- IT teams can leverage SSO to protect users with consistent security policies that adapt to their behavior while simplifying the management of usernames and passwords.
- Built-in security tools automatically identify and block malicious login attempts, improving the safety of business networks.
- Organizations can deploy security tools like [MFA](https://blog.miniorange.com/what-is-multi-factor-authentication-mfa/) in tandem with SSO, and can quickly oversee user access rights and privileges.

In addition, an SSO solution from a proven provider should give companies peace of mind through verified security protocols and service at scale.

### Why is Single Sign-On used by Organizations? {#why-is-single-sign-on-used-by-organizations}

Using **Single Sign-On services for authentication** allows organizations to delegate storage and management of user credentials to a centralized system. This prevents the hassle of managing user data and passwords.

Enterprise SSO products provide authentication to a large number of third-party applications without the need to modify the applications in any way. This turn-key feature makes it easy for organizations to migrate to SSO based authentication.

**Single Sign-On can be used in the below scenarios**

- **Authentication Using Federated Identity**: If an enterprise makes use of a third-party identity provider, federated identity (SAML) is preferred for user authentication in cloud-based as well as on-premise applications. In this case, a user attempting access to an application is redirected to an SSO based service provider which requests the identity provider for verification of the user’s identity.
- **Authentication for On-Premise Enterprise Applications**: Enterprises make use of multiple applications for various tasks. SSO can be used as a central point of authentication using a single set of login credentials for providing access to all the different enterprise applications.

**Enterprise Single Sign-On**

Enterprise Single Sign-On products basically store user credentials like username and password and automatically replay them each time a user attempts to access an enterprise application. This allows the SSO product to be used with a vast range of third party applications as the application itself does not need to be modified in any way to work with the SSO system.

**Social Single Sign-On**

Popular social networking applications like Twitter, Facebook, Google offer SSO services that allow users to log in to third-party applications with their respective social network credentials. This is very convenient for the users since they already have their information in their social media accounts and they are also logged in most of the time. But using social media SSO services also presents security risks since hackers around the world are always targeting user accounts on social networking websites.

### What is an SSO token? {#what-is-an-sso-token}

An **SSO** token is a collection of data or information that is passed from one system to another during the Single Sign On process. The data can simply be a user’s email address and information about which system is sending the token. Tokens must be digitally signed for the token receiver to verify that the token is coming from a trusted source. The certificate that is used for this digital signature is exchanged during the initial configuration process.

### Types of Single Sign-On (SSO) Protocols {#types-of-single-sign-On-sso-protocols}

**SAML**
Security Assertion Markup Language (SAML) is an open standard which contains user identity and attributes information in the form of an XML document. This XML document is digitally signed by the Identity provider and shared with the Service provider during the user authentication process.

**OAuth 2.0**
OAuth2 allows third party applications to authorize users by providing an access token. The access token prevents external applications from getting the user’s password and other data. The application can only access limited user information which is permitted by the user themselves.

**OpenID Connect**
OpenID Connect is an identity layer that operates on top of OAuth 2.0. It provides basic profile information about the end-user by specifying RESTful APIs that use JSON as a data format.

**LDAP**
LDAP (Lightweight Directory Access Protocol) is a protocol that enables anyone to locate organizations, individuals and other resources such as files and devices in a network. The network can be the Internet or a corporate intranet.

**RADIUS**
RADIUS stands for Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service. It is a client/server protocol that enables remote access servers to communicate with a central server to authenticate dial-in users and authorize their access to the requested system or service.

**WS-Federation**
WS-Federation (Web Services Federation) is an SSO protocol that is commonly used for authentication with Microsoft services like Active Directory Federation Services (ADFS) and Azure Active Directory. It defines mechanisms that are used to enable sharing of identity and account attributes, user authentication and authorization across applications.

**CAS**
The Central Authentication Service (CAS) is a single sign-on protocol for web applications. Its purpose is to allow a user to access multiple websites by using a single set of credentials only once.

### Related Articles {#related-articles}

- [Single Sign-On (SSO) Solution](https://www.miniorange.com/products/single-sign-on-sso)
- [Cloud Single Sign-On (SSO) Solution](https://www.miniorange.com/iam/cloud-sso)
- [Single Sign-On Integration](https://www.miniorange.com/iam/integrations/)
- [WordPress SAML Single Sign-On](https://plugins.miniorange.com/wordpress-single-sign-on-sso)
- [WordPress OAuth Single Sign-On](https://plugins.miniorange.com/wordpress-sso)

What is single sign-on (sso) and how it works? also learn types of sso,its benefits, and challenges for securing your apps with it.

What is Single Sign-On (SSO) and How does SSO Work?


### What is External API in WordPress? {#what-is-external-api-in-wordpress}


External APIs are designed in such a way that they can be used within an organization or by any person outside the organization who wants the interface access. These External APIs are accessible to External, Third-Party Partners. If a person wants to access these APIs they will require API Keys and security Tokens. When it comes to using External APIs in WordPress the most basic functionality is in which we need to fetch data from an external, third-party API provider and use this data to display on the WordPress website and process it further. This can be easily done by using our [Custom API for WordPress](https://plugins.miniorange.com/custom-api-for-wordpress) plugin in which hooks are provided, using which calls to External APIs can be made whenever required. these hooks can be integrated easily with the third-party plugins in WordPress like – Woocommerce, Wpforms, Gravity forms, Fluent forms, Elementor, Payment gateways, etc.


![external-api-integration](/blog/assets/2023/external-api-integration.webp)

### Multiple ways by which you can Integrate External APIs into your WordPress Website. {#integrate-external-apis-into-your-wordpress-website}

**1. Directly Fetch data from a REST API endpoint provided by a third-party/external provider**

![external-provider](/blog/assets/2023/external-provider.webp)

To Directly fetch the data from an external API provider, you need to have a REST API Endpoint which will be provided by the third-party provider. Here a direct API call is made to the external API endpoint and if the request is validated then you get the required data in form of a response. Once this data is fetched, it can be used to display on your WordPress website. This is one of the easiest ways to fetch your data from a third-party application into WordPress using External APIs.


**2. Use External APIs to perform form submission events**
![submission-external-api](/blog/assets/2023/submission-external-api.webp)

Using External APIs in WordPress is useful when you want to perform certain operations like Register, SignIn, Delete users in WordPress and these changes must reflect in the third-party application/platform. These operations are possible by making an external API call to the third-party provider once an event is triggered or a form is submitted in WordPress. Events can be triggered when a form is submitted in WPforms, Gravity Forms, Elementor, Contact-form7 or any other forms.


**3. Integrate External REST APIs on Payment gateways**
![payment-gateway-apis](/blog/assets/2023/payment-gateway-apis.webp)

External APIs in WordPress can also be used to trigger API calls when a payment is captured by Third-Party payment gateways like PayPal, Stripe, Woocommerce etc. By using these API calls it is possible to update the user status, user’s membership level etc on the WordPress or third-party API provider based on the payment status and amount.


**4. Directly fetch and update product data in WooCommerce from a third-party inventory store in real-time**
![inventory-store-apis](/blog/assets/2023/inventory-store-apis.webp)

Using External APIs in your WordPress website you can easily fetch real-time data from an external, third-party API provider into Woocommerce to display data or products, External APIs can be called in the backend using the developer hooks to sync the real-time data with Woocommerce products/items feeds and can be displayed on your site.


### Benefits of using External APIs with payment gateways in WordPress: {#benefits-of-using-external-apis-with-payment-in-wordpress}

- It becomes possible for your customers to Directly pay and make transactions on your WordPress website itself. This means that your payment is just an API call away.

- It becomes possible for you to accept payments from multiple payment gateways like PayPal or Stripe. This is important because most customers prefer their personal choice of payment method and will appreciate it if they see one. So, once you have the payment status as completed, then you can update user’s data on the WordPress/third-party side like user membership levels, permission levels etc.


- API which these payment gateways provide flexibility to handle all types of transactions while still providing the security and resilience that your CFO business needs.


In miniOrange’s WP Custom REST API Plugin hook is provided for this external REST API endpoints integration and this hook can be embedded directly into the gateways and run only based on the transaction status.


### Try Out Our miniOrange Custom API Plugin for WordPress? {#miniorange-custom-api-plugin-for-wordpress}
![miniorange-custom-api](/blog/assets/2023/miniorange-custom-api.webp)

The best way to see how External APIs work with your WP website is to try it out yourself.

## Key Plugin Features:

## Unlimited External API Connections

Unlimited external APIs(endpoints) connections can be created using easy to use User Interface and then with the use of developer hooks, these connections can be connected to the backend to execute the corresponding external API.

## Support for HTTP Methods (GET, POST, PUT, DELETE)

The plugin supports all the external APIs which supports GET, POST, PUT, DELETE and accepts data in application/JSON or x-www-form-urlencoded.

## Compatibility with third-party plugins in WordPress.

The plugin provides a developer hook to execute external API from WordPress backend and this developer hook is compatible with the third-party plugin as well like Woocommerce, WPforms, gravity forms, payment gateway plugins, membership plugins etc. and hence can be integrated with any events of these plugins.


You can simply download our [Custom API for WordPress](https://wordpress.org/plugins/custom-api-for-wp/) plugin in WordPress, after activation of our plugin you can follow Our [Step-By-Step Guide to Configure Custom REST API.](https://plugins.miniorange.com/keycloak-single-sign-on-wordpress-sso-saml)


Contact us at oauthsupport@xecurify.com and we’ll help you set up the Custom API plugin in no time.


## Conclusion

Using External API’s in WordPress makes fetching data into your WordPress website from a Third-party API provider a very easy task. Using hooks provided in the Custom API for WordPress Plugin you can make calls to External APIs whenever required. These hooks can be integrated easily with the third-party plugins in WordPress like – Woocommerce, Wpforms, Gravity forms, Fluent forms, Elementor, Payment gateways etc.

## Further Reading

- [Integrate External REST API into WordPress | Custom Rest API](https://plugins.miniorange.com/integrate-external-third-party-rest-api-endpoints-into-wordpress)
- [Custom REST API for WordPress | WordPress Custom REST API](https://plugins.miniorange.com/custom-api-for-wordpress)
- [Custom API For WP – WordPress plugin](https://wordpress.org/plugins/custom-api-for-wp/)
- [WordPress REST API Authentication | WordPress Plugin](https://plugins.miniorange.com/wordpress-rest-api-authentication)

What is External API for WordPress And How To Get Started Using It?


### What is Page and Post Restriction ? {#what-is-page-and-post-restriction}
Page and Post Restriction plugin for WordPress is a perpetual, and stable plugin that helps you limit and secure admittance to your WordPress site in various manners.  
Page restrictions allow you to control who can view and/or edit individual pages. You can add restrictions for individual pages or for WordPress groups. Multiple roles could be assigned to users simultaneously. You can add new capabilities and remove unnecessary capabilities which could be left from uninstalled plugins.  
Restrictions are inherited like View restrictions, which means a restriction applied to one page will cascade down to any child pages. Edit restrictions are not inherited, which means pages need to be restricted individually.  

### Why Page and Post Restriction Plugin? {#why-page-and-post-restriction-plugin}
Dealing with a site is simpler than at any other time these days, however, everybody can see your site by influencing the parent pages and your private content. Limitations don’t take the place of a space authorization.  
[Page restrictions and Post restrictions](https://plugins.miniorange.com/wordpress-page-restriction#pagerestriction) grant you to control who can see just as change limitations on individual pages in a space. Along these lines, A solution for Extranet (the controlled private network that allows access to partners, vendors, and suppliers or an authorized set of customers) openly facilitated Intranets, or for getting sorted out local sites (in case you’re dealing with a page that shouldn’t be seen by anybody).  
We actively propose researching your webpages needs and give you the [miniOrange Page and Post Restriction module](https://wordpress.org/plugins/page-and-post-restriction/) uniquely intended for incorporating with WordPress Sites to guard your site with easy to user-friendly insight at a moderate cost.  
![Page Restriction Workflow](/blog/assets/2023/page-protection-plugin.webp)  

Content Control access based upon User Roles. You can set consents for single organizational clients on WordPress destinations dependent on their title roles. Here a client role has consented to authorization to a page; the approval enables admittance to that client.  
It additionally permits giving access specifically to Logged In Users to pages and posts. Logged out clients see a customizable error message telling them that they have access to look into the content on the particular page.  
Other than Page Restrictions, we likewise give Post Restrictions (Content limitation) which includes assists with confined access for posts on logged-in/out status. Our WordPress Post limitations include likewise cause you to Restrict access in categories to logged in/out clients. We Display a custom message to clients who don’t have the authorization to see the webpage or divert them to a predetermined URL. In our Page restriction, Post restriction Plugin our Individual Posts highlight will empower assurance for default posts just as custom post types.  

### Features of Page Restriction: {#features-of-page-restriction}

- Control content access by page restriction to logged in/out users/clients or explicit user roles.  
- Content access is done to Restrict access for individual posts to logged in/out users or specific user roles.  
- Give one, two, or considerably more roles to any pages. Different roles could be assigned to pages/posts at once.  
- Our plugin helps your WordPress site and its feed make it totally private with greater adaptability to limit to private pages.  
- Making your webpage a multi-roles site for individuals to confine access for pages/posts.  
- Displaying information when an exceptional blunder happens i.e; limiting clients who don’t have authorization to see the content present on the login page (diverting to page/post after login), site landing page, or custom URL by showing static/default error messages.  
- Control the visibility of content for posts without the issue of altering each post on your site and defining the limitations separately to sign in/out clients or specific clients.  
![Page and Post Restriction Features](/blog/assets/2023/features-of-page-protection-plugin.webp)  
- Restrict content based on client’s roles or logged-in status and control the visibility of pages and presents on various user roles like Administrator, Contributor, Editor, Author, Subscriber or Custom on to your WordPress site with Required Fields Selection Ability for showing content.  
- Offering admittance to certain clients like – Admin for the administration of roles; Editor in making posts and we additionally give some unauthorized messages you need to show.  
- We offer Restriction Access to the custom Meta Box dependent on user roles. This shows all the site’s client jobs dependent on which page restriction and post restriction can be made. The meta box likewise inquires as to whether login is needed to get to the page/post. This gives authority over content accessing while making/altering/seeing the pages and posts.  
- Restriction for page Visitors that permits redirection to the login page. A basic and effective approach to advise your user that authorization is restricted.  
- Our module causes you to make content limitations as simple as workable by considering changes down to inherited pages when a limitation is applied to the parent one.  
- Restricting content based on a user’s logged in/out the status and after successful confirmation, redirect back to the restricted page.  
- Users attempting to get to a restricted page will be diverted to a chosen page URL. This post limitation/page limitation choice allows you to adjust the conduct of confined pages and posts.  

**Integration with SAML/OAuth SSO. This page restriction and post restriction feature allows content access to only logged-in users or the users who have been authenticated by the configured IdP. Allows redirecting not logged-in users to IdP/OAuth Server login page.**  

### Conclusion {#conclusion}

In this article, we have given a brief synopsis of our page restriction plugin and the different features we do provide with various customizations. A solution on how we can restrict access to pages, posts by protecting ourselves from exposing sensitive data using WordPress Page Post Protection.  
You may be curious about how you or your development team can implement this on your website. You can always Contact Us/, or Email us at [info@xecurify.com](mailto:info@xecurify.com) and we would be happy to help you out.  

### Additional Resources {#additional-resources}
- [WordPress Page & Post Restriction Plugin](https://wordpress.org/plugins/page-and-post-restriction/)  
- [Page Restriction](https://plugins.miniorange.com/wordpress-page-restriction#pagerestriction)  
- [What is Single Sign-On ?](https://blog.miniorange.com/what-is-single-sign-on-sso/)
- [WordPress Single Sign-On login](https://plugins.miniorange.com/wordpress-single-sign-on-sso)  

Page and Post Restriction plugin for WordPress is a perpetual, and stable plugin that helps you limit and secure admittance to your WordPress site in various manners.  Page restrictions allow you to control who can view and/or edit individual pages. You can add restrictions for individual pages or for WordPress groups.

What is Page and Post Restriction ?


## What is Zero Trust Security & How does it work ?

**Zero Trust** is an approach to perimeter-less security that helps create an effective environment, policies, and infrastructure to minimize data breaches. Although many enterprises were moving towards the Zero-Trust model, Remote working (Work From Home) accelerated it by ten folds.

Zero Trust assumes that no **conventional** network **exists**; networks maybe local, cloud-based, or a combination or hybrid with resources anywhere as well as workers in any location. Although a lot of sellers have tried to create their own definitions of Zero Trust, there are a number of recognized organization standards that can help you bring Zero Trust into alignment with your organization.

Remote Work increased demand for a zero trust model, because of its potential to remedy the Remote working challenges to security

### What is Zero Trust ? {#what-is-zero-trust}

Zero Trust is a model that recognizes trust as a vulnerability and aims at eliminating trust from the Network while ensuring a simplified user experience. It assumes all users, devices, and endpoints are compromised and verify all requests based on their identity and before giving any access to resources.

It reduces the risk of successful data breach and contains severity of breach by eliminating trust and preventing lateral movement.

![What is Zero Trust ? How does it work ?](/blog/assets/2023/zero-trust.webp)

### Why is there a need for Zero Trust ? {#why-zero-trust-is-needed}

In the legacy system, security is defined by protecting organization resources from external threats. In legacy systems, a VPN or Firewall is used to create a perimeter around the organization’s network. All users/devices within the organization network, are considered as trusted users/devices, have unrestricted access to all company resources.

The recent rise in the popularity of remote working brought forth new challenges to the existing security system. With the majority of users working remotely (using remote networks), relying on this approach is less effective, less efficient, and more dangerous.

### What is a Zero Trust Architecture? {#what-is-a-zero-trust-architecture}

Zero Trust model encourages micro-segmentation – it involves identifying Protect surface, a collection of networks most critical assets, data, and applications, and creating a perimeter around it. These perimeters act like a firewall for the protected surfaces and ensure that known, allowed and legitimate traffic can access the protected surface.

Organizations can strengthen security by using granular policies, thus reducing the chances of a breach and improving containment of breach if any takes place.

### How does the Zero Trust security model work? {#how-does-the-zero-trust-security-model-work}

In a Zero Trust system all users, within the organization network perimeter and outside the organization network perimeter are treated as untrusted. All the users requesting resources are verified and RBA sessions are used to grant user access to resources.

![Security Policy Enforcement](/blog/assets/2023/zero-trust-working.webp)

All the user requests and data pass through the security policy enforcement engine. This Security engine ensures protection by verifying device and identity before granting access to the data or applications, and further by monitoring session activities and implementing policies and threat assessment/intelligence.

### Zero Trust Pillars {#zero-trust-pillars}

The philosophy behind zero-trust assumes that no user/device can be trusted and must be verified for authentication and authorization. The 4 pillars of the zero-trust approach are:

-   Assumption of all environments being hostile and breached.
-   Verifying user, user device.
-   Focusing on data protection and not the breach attack.
-   Least privilege access to all users.
-   Real-time monitoring of traffic for Malicious activities.

Users and devices are always verified and given the least privileges and access to requested resources. Users need to request access to other resources and are verified again for them. This way, the zero trust approach offers unrealistic security.

### Challenges to Zero Trust {#challenges-to-zero-trust}

As Zero trust is a security methodology, it requires organizations to evaluate their security strategies and parameters for their system and make consistent efforts to evaluate and improve existing strategies. Some of the major challenges are:

-   Support for Zero trust system from management and users
-   The rapid increase in devices leading to increased chances of unsecured end-point.
-   The exponential growth of applications increases the need for tracking and monitoring.

### Zero trust Maturity Curve {#zero-trust-maturity-curve}

Zero trust is the Implementation of the zero tesut model that can be classified into various stages on the basis of adoption and protection.

![Security Policy Enforcement](/blog/assets/2023/zero-trust-maturity-curve.webp)

#### Stage 0: Fragmented Identities

Organizations use multiple On-premise and cloud applications, and most of them are not connected with each other or a centralized directory. Identities for the different applications are stored on a number of devices.

Due to these fragmented Identities, Securing and managing access to various applications becomes a challenge for IT, as it leaves large windows for attackers to exploit, and for users too, as it means they will need to maintain different login credentials for different applications.

This further increases the security concerns for IT probability of password fatigue or weak login credentials.

#### Stage 1: Unified IAM

This involves resolving the challenges from fragmented Identity. This can be accomplished by adopting an [Identity and Access Management](https://idp.miniorange.com/) (IAM) or [Single Sign-On (SSO)](https://www.miniorange.com/single-sign-on-sso) solution. It would enable identity defragmentation by unifying all identities into a single IAM system and ensuring smooth access to both on-premise and cloud apps with a single set of credentials.

A second-factor authentication method can also be implemented for additional security. Using access policy and group policy, securely access the Applications and resources.

#### Stage 2: Contextual Access

This involves adding a layer of context-based access policy on top of Unified IAM to gather context regarding, user, application, device, network and provide access based on these context markers. These policies will allow organizations to fine-tune the access policy and better control and monitor access to resources and secure access to API.

For example, Asking for 2-factor authentication if a user logins from a new location or device.

#### Stage 3: Adaptive Workforce

This can be defined as the last stage of Zero Trust implementation and focuses on Authentication & authorization access. At this stage, Authentication is a recurring process throughout the user experience through adaptive authentication and risk-based assessment to identify potential threats. Sessions are continuously monitored and Risk scores for sessions are calculated based on assessment. Security is increased through Risk intelligence while risk-based access help simplify the user experience.

### Zero Trust History {#zero-trust-history}

The concept of zero trust has been around for a long time, dating back to the early 2000s. Zero trust is now a popular security model.


Zero Trust is an approach to perimeter-less security that helps create an effective environment, policies, and infrastructure to minimize data breaches. Although many enterprises were moving towards the Zero-Trust model, Remote working (Work From Home) accelerated it by ten folds.