Easy Single Sign-On (SSO)

TL;DR

This guide shows you how to set up automatic single sign-on so you only need to log in once for multiple websites and apps. We’ll use a password manager with auto-fill features, which is the simplest way for most people.

Setting Up Single Sign-On

1. Choose a Password Manager: Several good options exist, including 1Password, LastPass, Bitwarden, and KeePass (KeePass requires more technical setup). For this guide, we’ll assume you’re using a popular option like 1Password or LastPass as they have easy-to-use browser extensions.
2. Install the Browser Extension: Download and install the official browser extension for your chosen password manager in Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge, or Brave. Make sure it’s from the official source to avoid fake versions.
3. Import Existing Passwords (Optional): Most password managers allow you to import passwords from your browser or other password stores. This saves a lot of time.
   • Follow the instructions provided by your password manager for importing. Usually, this involves exporting your current passwords as a CSV file and then uploading it into the password manager.
4. Enable Auto-Fill: This is the key step! In your password manager’s settings (usually accessible through the browser extension icon), find the auto-fill options and make sure they are enabled.
   • Look for settings like “Auto-fill usernames and passwords” or similar.
   • Some managers have separate options for different types of websites.
5. Save Your Master Password: Remember your password manager’s master password! This is the only password you need to remember, but if you forget it, recovering access can be difficult.
   • Consider using a strong and unique master password.
   • Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for extra security.

How It Works

When you visit a website, your browser extension automatically detects the login fields. If you’ve saved a username and password for that site in your password manager, it will auto-fill them for you. You may be prompted to enter your master password occasionally.

Troubleshooting

1. Auto-Fill Not Working?
   • Check the password manager’s settings again to ensure auto-fill is enabled.
   • Try restarting your browser.
   • Some websites use custom login forms that may not be compatible with all password managers.
   • Clear your browser cache and cookies.
2. Incorrect Passwords?
   • Double-check the saved username and password in your password manager.
   • Update the credentials if they have changed on the website.

Advanced Options (For Technical Users)

If you need more control or are dealing with complex setups, consider these options:

• WebAuthn/Passkeys: Some password managers support WebAuthn for even stronger authentication using hardware security keys.
• OpenID Connect (OIDC): For developers, OIDC allows you to integrate single sign-on into your applications directly. This requires more coding and server configuration.

  # Example of an OpenID Connect request URL