When it comes to securing authentication and single sign-on solutions, organizations often look to Security Assertion Markup Language (SAML). But have you considered exploring other alternatives to SAML that might better suit your specific needs? Alternatives To SAML, such as OpenID Connect, Security Assertion Protocol (SAP), OAuth 2.0, and JSON Web Token (JWT) offer a wide range of authentication solutions to choose from when implementing identity and access management. While SAML remains the primary choice for web-based SSO, many businesses are discovering a great deal of benefit in switching to other alternatives such as OpenID Connect, Security Assertion Protocol (SAP), OAuth 2.0, and JSON Web Token (JWT). Let’s have a look at these various alternatives and find the best one for your specific requirements.
1. What is SAML and What Are Some Alternatives?
Security Assertion Markup Language (SAML) is an open standard used to securely exchange authentication and authorization data between an identity provider (IdP) and a service provider (SP) such as software as a service (SaaS) applications. It is used for single sign-on (SSO), so users can use a single set of credentials to access multiple applications, as well as authorization, so users can view or edit data within applications based on their role and permissions.
Other authentication and authorization standards are out there, but are not as widely used as SAML. Some of these alternatives include:
- OpenID Connect (OIDC) – used by services like Google and Facebook as a way of getting an “identity token” that holds authentication and authorization data
- OAuth 2.0 – protocol that enables applications to gain limited access to user accounts on an HTTP service with the user’s permission
- JSON Web Token (JWT) – open standard for securely transmitting information between parties as a JSON object
- Kerberos - centralized network authentication protocol based on shared keys
Each of these alternatives carries distinct features and advantages, and might be a good fit for certain use cases. It is important, however, to weigh the specific needs of a project and ensure that the alternative chosen is up-to-date and secure.
2. Some Common Alternatives to SAML
While SAML remains the canonical single sign-on (SSO) protocol for the web, there are a few alternatives worth considering.
- OpenID Connect is a similar, open-source protocol that is more widely supported and can be deployed more quickly than SAML. It also provides the advantage of being able to securely authenticate users from a range of devices, including PCs, tablets, and smartphones.
- OAuth 2.0, developed by the IETF, is a similar protocol that takes advantage of the same features as OpenID Connect, but is more flexible and extensible. It is more suited to large-scale web applications that want to extend their services beyond a traditional username-password system.
For those seeking to use an entirely different SSO protocol, Shibboleth is a standards-based federated identity provider that allows users to securely access services from other websites. Additionally, a few proprietary alternatives such as Ping Identity and OneLogin are also available.
3. Advantages of Using an Alternative to SAML
With the growing need for secure authentication and identification, many organizations turn to standard protocols like Security Assertion Markup Language (SAML) for online user login. However, there are other alternatives for identity management that boast beneficial features that are either exclusive to them or are enhanced or more comprehensive than those offered by SAML. Below are some of the advantages of using these authentication alternatives:
- User-friendliness: These new authentication solutions are often easier to deploy and manage, making user adoption and onboarding simpler. For example, users won’t need to remember multiple passwords with a single sign-on system, while admins will have less need for IT support.
- Flexibility: Many solutions provide greater flexibility, allowing for an array of authentication methods – from one-time passwords to biometrics – that can be easily deployed and configured. This can provide a more intuitive user experience for logging in.
Aside from the convenience offered to users, greater security is also achievable. Advanced authentication measures like two-factor authentication, push notifications, and geolocation filters are available with many alternatives, all of which are more robust than available SAML-based solutions.
4. How to Choose the Right SAML Alternative for Your Needs
1. Understand Your Business Needs
Before you look into which SAML alternative is best for your business, it is important to determine your specific needs. What functionality do you require from a SAML solution? Do you need to authenticate your users across multiple applications? Do you need Single Sign-On (SSO) support or an auto-provisioning feature? Make sure you understand the specific features that will be beneficial to your enterprise.
2. Research Your Options
Now that you know what you are looking for, it is time to research the different SAML solutions available. Start by looking for reviews from other users—what do current customers like about each option? Does the solution have the built-in features that will meet your needs? Read up on each option’s security features and check out their certifications. Uncover any hidden costs and ask yourself—does the solution seem like a good fit? Consider your options and narrow down the list to the ones that have the features and support you need.
Q&A
Q: What are some alternatives to SAML?
A: SAML, or Security Assertion Markup Language, is an authentication protocol that allows single sign-on (SSO) capabilities. While SAML is widely used, there are alternatives that could better fit your needs. Some popular alternatives to SAML include OpenID, OAuth 2.0, Kerberos, and LDAP. OpenID is an authentication protocol that allows users to access multiple online services using a single digital identity. OAuth 2.0 is an authorization protocol used to securely share access to services. Kerberos is a computer network authentication protocol, and LDAP, or Lightweight Directory Access Protocol, is a directory service protocol used as an authentication source. Depending on your needs, one of these alternatives could suit your purpose better than SAML. Tired of going through the same tedious process trying to find an alternative to SAML? LogMeOnce offers you a single, secure, and easy sign-on solution to enhance your online security. So stop struggling with these common SAML struggles and create a FREE LogMeOnce account with Auto-login and SSO by visiting LogMeOnce.com to take advantage of an easier and more secure authentication solution. Make the switch to LogMeOnce today and enjoy secure and simplified online authentication, the ultimate alternative to SAML. Keywords: “Alternatives to SAML Solution”, “Secure Auto-Login SSO”.

Nicole’s, journey in the tech industry is marked by a passion for learning and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Whether it’s delving into the latest software developments or exploring innovative computing solutions, Nicole’s expertise is evident in her insightful and informative writing style. Her ability to connect with readers through her words makes her a valuable asset in any technical communication endeavor.