What is Single Sign-On (SSO)?
Single Sign-On (SSO) is an authentication method that allows users to access multiple applications or systems with one set of credentials. By centralizing authentication through an Identity Provider (IdP), SSO enables users to log in once and gain access to authorized resources without needing to re-enter usernames or passwords. SSO typically uses standards like SAML or OpenID Connect (OIDC) to securely share identity assertions between systems.
Why is Single Sign-On (SSO) Important?
SSO reduces the complexity and risk associated with managing multiple passwords, improves user productivity, and enhances security through centralized control. In high-stakes environments, such as critical infrastructure, SSO helps streamline secure access to operational systems without sacrificing compliance or control.
From a security perspective, SSO reduces credential sprawl, lowers the risk of phishing and password reuse, and enables stronger policy enforcement through a single authentication authority. From an operational standpoint, SSO simplifies the user experience, reduces IT overhead, and accelerates access for employees, contractors, and third parties who require entry to multiple systems in time-sensitive situations.
SSO also plays a critical role in meeting compliance mandates like NERC CIP, IEC 62443, NIS2, and TSA SD02E, all of which emphasize identity governance, access logging, and least privilege. By enforcing consistent authentication policies across IT and OT systems, SSO helps align identity practices with Zero Trust principles.
How Does Xona Help with Single Sign-On (SSO)?
Xona natively integrates with leading enterprise identity providers (IdPs) using SAML 2.0 and other open standards, allowing users to authenticate once and seamlessly access operational systems through the Xona Platform. Xona extends the benefits of SSO into OT and ICS environments where legacy systems often lack built-in identity federation support.
Xona acts as a secure access broker, verifying user identities through the SSO process and then securely brokering access to critical assets without exposing credentials or establishing direct connections. Combined with credential injection, role-based access controls, and session monitoring, Xona ensures that SSO-authenticated users can access only the systems they’re authorized to, for only the time required, and under full observability.
This allows organizations to enforce SSO across IT and OT boundaries, reduce operational friction, and maintain full control over how identities are used, without sacrificing security, speed, or compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Single Sign-On (SSO) work?
SSO works by authenticating a user once through a centralized Identity Provider (IdP), which then issues secure tokens to grant access to other applications or systems without requiring repeated logins.
What security benefits does SSO provide in critical infrastructure environments?
SSO reduces password sprawl, limits credential reuse, and enables centralized enforcement of identity policies which helps prevent phishing, unauthorized access, and identity-related compliance violations.
What identity standards are commonly used to implement SSO?
Can SSO be used across both IT and OT systems?
How does Xona support Single Sign-On for operational systems?
Xona integrates with enterprise IdPs via SAML 2.0 and brokers SSO-based access to OT systems using credential injection, protocol isolation, and role-based controls without exposing backend credentials.
