Glossary

    [resources, glossary, saas-authentication]

    saas

    SaaS Authentication

    What is SaaS authentication?

    SaaS app authentication refers to the process of verifying the identity of a user who is attempting to access a SaaS application. Access policies are critical for ensuring the security of the application and the data it’s hosting, as well as for ensuring that users have appropriate levels of access to the application based on their roles and responsibilities.

    Why is SaaS authentication important?

    Authentication is a critical component of SaaS security, as it ensures that only authorized users can access any given SaaS application.

    There are various methods of SaaS app authentication, including:

    • Username and password: a traditional method of authentication where users provide a unique username and password to gain access to the application.
    • Single sign-on (SSO): a method of authentication that allows users to access multiple applications with a single set of credentials, reducing the need to remember multiple usernames and passwords.
    • Multi-factor authentication (MFA): a more advanced method of authentication that requires users to provide multiple pieces of evidence to verify their identities, such as a password, or a one-time code.

    To better manage their existing SaaS application authentication methods, and mitigate potential risks, organizations leverage dedicated SaaS management and SaaS security solutions. The solutions help ensure complete visibility into the SaaS environment, strong access controls, and monitoring for suspicious user activity across the company’s SaaS app stack.