This year IT Services enhanced the access method for logging into all UA Little Rock applications by implementing Azure Active Directory (Azure AD) Single sign-on (SSO). SSO is an authentication method that allows users to sign in using one set of credentials to multiple independent software systems. Using SSO means a user does not have to sign in to every application they use. With SSO, users can access all needed applications without being required to authenticate using different credentials. For a brief introduction, see Azure Active Directory Single sign-on.
Key benefits of using Azure AD SSO:
- Boosts user productivity
- Speeds up user provisioning
- Increases application security
- Scales IT efficiencies
- Simplifies custom application integration
- Secures hybrid access
In addition, for increased system security, Multi Factor Authentication (or MFA) has been implemented with Single Sign-On.
Key benefits of MFA:
- Provides greater security than passwords alone
- Protects users from credentials theft
- Helps secure data access from unauthorized users
- Provides a simplified user interface
The need for Azure Active Directory Single sign-on began as a requirement for implementing Workday and was expanded to include all applications in the UA Little Rock IT environment.