Authentication methods in Microsoft Entra ID: SSO, MFA, and passwordless
Slide deck explaining authentication methods in Microsoft Entra ID: Single Sign-On (SSO) for convenience, Multifactor Authentication (MFA) for stronger verification, and passwordless authentication to eliminate passwords.
Authentication methods in Microsoft Entra ID: SSO, MFA, and passwordless
Introduction to authentication methods in Microsoft Entra ID: Single Sign-On (SSO), Multifactor Authentication (MFA), and passwordless authentication.
Authentication methods in Microsoft Entra ID: SSO, MFA, and passwordless
Introduction to authentication methods in Microsoft Entra ID: Single Sign-On (SSO), Multifactor Authentication (MFA), and passwordless authentication.
SSO, MFA, passwordless — different jobs
These three methods solve different sign-in problems, and you can combine them. Single Sign-On (SSO): fewer repeated sign-ins. Multifactor Authentication (MFA): stronger proof at sign-in. Passwordless: sign in without a password. Common to use more than one together.
Authentication and Microsoft Entra ID
Authentication proves identity; Entra ID is a common identity provider in Microsoft cloud. Authentication equals proving your identity at sign-in. Microsoft Entra ID (formerly Azure Active Directory (Azure AD)). Identity provider for users and applications. Central place to manage sign-in policies.
Single Sign-On (SSO) = sign in once
SSO reuses one sign-in session across multiple applications. Sign in once to the identity provider. Access multiple apps without repeated prompts. Session can expire or require reauthentication. SSO does not equal 'no authentication'.
Multifactor Authentication (MFA) = stronger sign-in
MFA requires two or more factors to verify your identity. Something you know (example: password). Something you have (example: phone or security key). Something you are (example: biometrics). Helps reduce account takeover risk.
Passwordless = no password in the flow
Passwordless replaces the password with a device-backed method. Device-backed sign-in plus biometrics or Personal Identification Number (PIN). Passkeys (Fast Identity Online 2 (FIDO2)). Windows Hello for Business. FIDO2 security keys (hardware keys).
SSO vs MFA vs passwordless — the rule
Think: how often, how strong, and whether passwords are used. SSO: sign in once across many apps. MFA: add extra proof during sign-in. Passwordless: replace the password step. Layering is common and expected.
Scenario: one login for many apps
If the goal is fewer repeated prompts across apps, it's SSO. Requirement clue: 'sign in once'. Requirement clue: 'many apps'. Capability: Single Sign-On (SSO). Pitfall: SSO still authenticates you.
Scenario: extra step beyond password
If the requirement is stronger proof at sign-in, it's MFA. Requirement clue: 'extra verification step'. Capability: Multifactor Authentication (MFA). Use for admins and regular users. Goal: reduce account takeover.
Scenario: move away from passwords
If the goal is removing passwords, it's passwordless. Requirement clue: 'stop using passwords'. Capability: passwordless authentication. Examples: FIDO2 passkeys, Windows Hello for Business. Goal: reduce phishing and password spray.
Layered sign-in strategy
SSO plus MFA plus passwordless is a common combo, but each is configured separately. SSO: convenience across many apps. MFA: stronger verification at sign-in. Passwordless: reduce password-based attacks. Reminder: enabling one doesn't enable the others.
Pitfalls to avoid
Most mistakes come from mixing up what each method is meant to do. SSO can be secure with strong policies. MFA is for everyone, not only admins. Passwordless improves security by removing passwords.