Federated Identity Management (FIM) is an intricate system which allows users to maintain and access a single digital identity across multiple platforms or organizations. FIM packs the biggest advantage of centralizing authentication processes, which in turn simplifies navigation across various domains. What’s more? It also eliminates the need for multiple login credentials for each service. The sectors that are major beneficiaries of federated identity management are educational institutions, and online services that require secure access across different networks. Presently, the digital realm is growing with more interconnection, and thus the importance of federated identity management is only set to increase.
Key Technologies in Federated Identity Management
Federated identity management counts on a variety of technologies to function seamlessly and securely. Three of the most widely used standards are Security Assertion Markup Language (SAML), OAuth, and OpenID. All three possess a unique function that enables secure authentication and authorization across platforms.
1. Security Assertion Markup Language (SAML)
One of the earliest and best-known technologies for feeding is SAML. SAML works by passing authentication data between identity providers and service providers. In other words, SAML allows users to authenticate once with an identity provider. Next, it sends an assertion to various service providers, confirming the user’s identity. This technology is of widespread use among enterprises, especially for Single Sign-On (SSO) purposes. Therefore, it makes it much easier for employees to access multiple systems securely with one set of credentials.
2. OAuth
Another protocol frequently used technology for federated identity management is OAuth. The primary focus of OAuth is on authorization rather than authentication. With OAuth, users can authorize third-party services to limit access to their data and that too without disclosing their passwords. Take for example using the Google account. When you use it to log into a third-party app, OAuth assures that the app is accessing only the data that you consent to share. Thus, OAuth is a popular choice for integrating apps and services, most notably for the social media and cloud computing sectors.
3. OpenID
OpenID is a decentralized authentication protocol. It is capable of rendering the task of authentication to multiple services using a single identity. These accounts and services are linked to a trusted identity provider like Google, Facebook, or Microsoft. OpenID is often teamed up with OAuth to complete the entire process of authentication and authorization functionalities at go. What adds to the popularity of Open ID Is its consumer-facing applications, especially those that prioritize ease of use and seamless user experiences.
Major sectors that should adopt federated identity management
In the wake of rising demand for secure and convenient digital access, several industries are being encouraged to adopt federated identity management. Take a look at the few sectors where FIM adoption could be particularly beneficial.
1. Healthcare
Given a lot of sensitive patient data is being shared across hospitals, it becomes imperative for insurance companies, and laboratories, healthcare organizations to up their ante for managing digital identities. Federated identity management is one such feasible option that would allow doctors, nurses, and patients to access necessary records that are spread across different platforms in a secure manner and without the hassle of managing multiple logins. Patient privacy can also be taken care of by ensuring that access to personal health information is streamlined for easy tracking.
2. Education
Educational institutions, basically the larger ones like y universities and research organizations, are highly dependent on numerous digital platforms for administration, teaching, and collaboration. Federated identity management is a simplified approach for students, staff, and external collaborators as it unifies access credentials across platforms. Therefore, the security is enhanced, ensuring that only authorized individuals are granted access to sensitive academic and research data.
3. Corporate Enterprises
Large organizations that operate in multiple business units and partners have a tough time managing the digital identities of their employees, contractors, and clients. Federated identity management can be a much-needed management system for such corporate enterprises as it allows different business units to share authentication data securely. Hence, the administrative overhead is reduced with enhanced security.
4. Financial Services
Financial institutions like banks, credit unions, and other financial institutions are highly sensitive to security threats like identity theft and data breaches. By adopting federated identity management, these institutions build a robust system for identity checks and verification that can offer secure, seamless access to customers across different services, such as online banking, investment platforms, and payment portals.