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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
- 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.
- 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