SAML 2.0 (Security Assertion Markup Language 2.0) is an XML based protocol. This is a version of the SAML standard which allows for the secure exchange of authentication and authorization of identities between domains. SAML 2.0 gives you the option for web-base, cross-domain SSO (single sign-on). This streamlines the distribution process of multiple authentication tokens to each user.
Essentially, SAML 2.0 allows for the seamless transfer of user-information credentials from identity providers to service providers. With SAML, users are able to access multiple sites by using a single set of login credentials – shifting the management of login credentials to the management of users. Users can automatically be logged in with just one click. SAML 2.0 provides a connection between user identity and their level of authorization to access any particular site.
In order for SAML 2.0 authentication to work successfully, both the identity provider and service provider need to have the same SAML configuration.
With SAML 2.0 SSO, users can instantly access their accounts without having to remember specific password or email combinations. By only needing to sign on one time to access multiple service providers, users can get access to website portals much quicker.
There is a direct transfer of information from the identity provider to the service provider, making sure that the user’s credentials are directly and solely sent to the identity provider. This streamlined process helps make the SAML authentication process secure.
Instead of needing to manage all user information across multiple service platforms, the information provider hosts the credentials. Everything is in one place.