Single Sign-On (SSO): A Simple Guide
- Managing multiple usernames and passwords can be a nightmare for both users and IT teams. Employees often surf within several apps and systems every day. Email, CRM, HR portals, file storage, collaboration tools and each one asks for a login.
This not only slows people down but also creates security risks when users reuse or forget passwords.
Single Sign-On (SSO) solves this problem by allowing users to log in once and securely access all authorized applications without having to enter credentials again.
What is SSO?
SSO is a system that connects multiple applications to a central identity provider (IdP). Instead of separate passwords for each app, a user signs in once with their main account (like their company email) and from there, all other apps trust that identity. It’s like using a master key to unlock every door you’re allowed into, instead of carrying a separate key for each one.
How Does SSO Work?
- The app trusts QAM’s authentication and grants access. No extra password required.
- The user logs in to QAM or their central identity provider.
- QAM verifies the identity using secure methods (like MFA or certificates).
- When the user tries to access another app (for example, Google Workspace, Office 365 or Salesforce), QAM confirms the identity with that app.
- For example, imagine logging into Gmail once and instantly being able to use Google Drive, Google Docs and Google Meet without re-entering your password every time. That’s SSO in action. One login, multiple services.
- Behind the scenes, this is made possible by secure standards like SAML, OAuth and OpenID Connect.
Why SSO Matters
Convenience
One login for everything reduces password fatigue.
Better Security
Fewer passwords mean less chance of weak or reused credentials.
Time-Saving
No repeated logins, increasing productivity.
Centralized Control
IT teams can manage access to all apps from one place.
Compliance-Friendly
Easier to enforce security policies and meet audit requirements.
SSO with Quantum Access Manager (QAM)
- QAM makes SSO simple to deploy and manage. Here’s how:
Integrates with Identity Providers
Works with AD, Azure AD, Google and LDAP.
Secure Authentication
Combine SSO with MFA for stronger protection.
One Dashboard
Users access all apps and services from a single portal.
Adaptive Access
Policies adjust based on device, location or risk level.
Cloud & On-Premises Ready
Works across SaaS apps, VPNs and enterprise resources.
- With QAM, employees get a smooth login experience while IT teams keep full control over who can access what.
FAQs
What is the main benefit of SSO?
It saves time and improves security by reducing the number of passwords users need to manage.
Is SSO safe?
Yes, especially when combined with MFA. It actually reduces risk by centralizing authentication.
Can QAM integrate with cloud apps like Office 365 or Google Workspace?
Yes, QAM supports integration with popular cloud and enterprise apps.
Does SSO work for remote workers?
Absolutely. QAM enables secure access to both on-premises and cloud apps, no matter where users log in from.
What happens if the central account is compromised?
With MFA and adaptive policies, QAM ensures even a stolen password isn’t enough to break in.