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Security Assertion Markup Language (SAML)

A 3D-rendered digital image showcasing the acronym "SAML" in large white letters at the center top. Below it, colorful 3D icons represent key concepts: an orange user icon, a green padlock, a yellow code symbol, a blue cloud, and a blue desktop monitor displaying a login form. 

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Security Assertion Markup Language (SAML) Definition

Security Assertion Markup Language (SAML) is an open standard for exchanging authentication and authorization data between parties, specifically between an identity provider and a service provider. It allows users to log in once and access multiple applications through single sign-on (SSO). SAML uses XML-based messages for communication and ensures secure, efficient identity verification across web domains.

Security Assertion Markup Language (SAML) Explained Easy

Think of SAML like a school ID card. Once you have the ID, you can enter different classrooms without asking for permission each time. In the online world, SAML lets you log in to one place and then visit other websites or apps without logging in again.

Flat-style illustration on a dark purple background showing a school ID card on the left and three classroom doors on the right with arrows pointing from one door to the next. Text explains that with SAML, once you log in once, you can access multiple websites or apps without logging in again.

Security Assertion Markup Language (SAML) Origin

SAML was developed by the OASIS consortium in the early 2000s to address the growing need for standardized cross-domain authentication and SSO solutions.

Security Assertion Markup Language (SAML) Etymology

The name is derived from its XML-based format used to mark up security assertions passed between parties.

Security Assertion Markup Language (SAML) Usage Trends

SAML has become a dominant protocol in enterprise environments, used by major companies for federated identity management and SSO. While newer protocols like OpenID Connect are also popular, SAML remains essential for many legacy and cloud-based systems, especially for large organizations and educational institutions.

Security Assertion Markup Language (SAML) Usage
  • Formal/Technical Tagging:
    - Authentication
    - Authorization
    - Identity Management
  • Typical Collocations:
    - "SAML authentication"
    - "SAML integration"
    - "SAML SSO"
    - "SAML response"

Security Assertion Markup Language (SAML) Examples in Context
  • A company uses SAML to allow employees to log into multiple tools with one login.
  • Universities implement SAML-based systems so students can access academic portals and library services using their campus login.
  • Cloud services often integrate SAML to offer secure SSO to corporate clients.



Security Assertion Markup Language (SAML) FAQ
  • What is SAML?
    SAML is a standard that allows secure exchange of authentication and authorization data between identity providers and service providers.
  • How does SAML work?
    It uses XML-based messages to pass security assertions between an identity provider and a service provider, enabling single sign-on.
  • What is SAML used for?
    SAML is used for single sign-on in web-based applications and services across different domains.
  • Is SAML secure?
    Yes, SAML uses digital signatures and encryption to ensure secure communication and prevent tampering.
  • Who uses SAML?
    Large enterprises, educational institutions, and cloud service providers use SAML for federated identity management.
  • Is SAML still relevant?
    Yes, while newer protocols exist, SAML is still widely used in many enterprise and legacy systems.
  • What’s the difference between SAML and OAuth?
    SAML is used for authentication and single sign-on, while OAuth is used for delegated authorization without sharing passwords.
  • Can SAML be used with mobile apps?
    Although not originally designed for mobile, it can be used with adaptations through web-based login flows.
  • How does SAML improve user experience?
    It allows users to log in once and access multiple services without multiple credentials.
  • Is SAML open standard?
    Yes, it is an open standard maintained by OASIS.

A 3D infographic diagram explaining the SAML authentication process. On a dark navy blue background, the flow starts with a user at a 'Sign In' page. An arrow labeled 'Authenticate' points to a purple block labeled 'Identity Provider.' From there, an arrow labeled 'SAML Assertion' points to a blue block labeled 'Service Provider.' Finally, an arrow labeled 'Access application' points from the 'Service Provider' to a browser window illustration.

Security Assertion Markup Language (SAML) Related Words
  • Categories/Topics:
    - Authentication
    - Identity Management
    - Single Sign-On
    - Federation

Did you know?
Google Apps was one of the first major cloud services to support SAML-based SSO, helping organizations seamlessly connect their internal identity systems to Google services without compromising security.

Authors | Arjun Vishnu | @ArjunAndVishnu

 

Arjun Vishnu

PicDictionary.com is an online dictionary in pictures. If you have questions or suggestions, please reach out to us on WhatsApp or Twitter.

I am Vishnu. I like AI, Linux, Single Board Computers, and Cloud Computing. I create the web & video content, and I also write for popular websites.

My younger brother, Arjun handles image & video editing. Together, we run a YouTube Channel that's focused on reviewing gadgets and explaining technology.

 

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