This guide explains what MFA and SSO are, how they differ, where they overlap, and how modern solutions like passwordless authentication and Zero Trust are reshaping both.
What Is SSO (Single Sign-On)?
Single Sign-On lets users access multiple applications or systems with one set of credentials. By authenticating once, the user gains access to all linked services without having to log in again.
Benefits of SSO:
- Simplifies the login process for users
- Reduces password fatigue and password resets
- Centralizes identity management and access control
- Improves compliance reporting and audit readiness
What Is MFA (Multi-Factor Authentication)?
MFA strengthens authentication by requiring two or more verification factors before granting access. These factors typically include:
- Something you know – Password or PIN
- Something you have – Security key, authenticator app, mobile device
- Something you are – Biometric data like fingerprint or facial recognition
Even if one factor is compromised, MFA helps block unauthorized access.
MFA vs. SSO: Key Differences
| Feature | MFA | SSO |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Strengthen security | Streamline access |
| User Experience | Adds a step during login | Reduces number of logins |
| Security Focus | Prevents unauthorized access | Minimizes password reuse |
| Best Use Case | Protect sensitive accounts and apps | Simplify access across many apps |
How MFA and SSO Work Together
MFA and SSO aren’t mutually exclusive. In fact, combining them delivers both convenience and protection:
- Users log in once via SSO for multiple apps.
- MFA ensures that the initial login and possibly specific high-risk actions are securely verified.
- Together, they reduce password risk while keeping workflows smooth.
The Shift Toward Passwordless and Zero Trust
Enterprises are moving beyond traditional MFA and SSO toward:
- Passwordless authentication with passkeys and FIDO2 for phishing-resistant login.
- Zero Trust Authentication where every access request is verified assuming breach by default.
These modern approaches eliminate credentials as an attack vector and enforce stronger policies without sacrificing usability.
How Secfense Enhances MFA and SSO (No Code, Any App)
With the Secfense User Access Security Broker (UASB), organizations can:
- Add Phishing-Resistant MFA to any application even legacy systems without touching the code.
- Replace passwords with passkeys for both workforce (IAM) and customer (CIAM) logins.
- Protect sensitive in-app actions with Privileged Access & Microauthorizations.
- Secure VPN, Citrix, and Outlook Web Access with Secfense Ghost and Zero Trust network access.
- Align with DORA, NIS2, and PSD2 strong authentication requirements out of the box.
Platform highlights:
- FIDO2 Authenticator – Enable secure passkey login across all platforms.
- Passkeys for Universal Access – Password-free access from any device.
- Mobile-Bound Passkeys – Turn company phones into secure authenticators.
- Full Site Protection – Shield web apps behind a policy-driven access layer.
Choosing the Right Authentication Strategy
| Objective | Recommended Approach |
|---|---|
| Improve user experience | SSO with passwordless MFA |
| Protect legacy systems | Inject MFA/passkeys with UASB |
| Secure privileged actions | Apply microauthorizations |
| Safeguard external systems | Deploy Ghost and Zero Trust controls |
| Meet compliance mandates | Combine phishing-resistant MFA and policy-based access |
Conclusion
MFA and SSO serve different purposes, but together they create a stronger, more user-friendly authentication environment. By adding phishing-resistant, passwordless authentication with Secfense, organizations can modernize security without rewriting their applications protecting users, meeting compliance requirements, and improving user experience.
📩 Contact Us to Discuss Your Authentication Strategy
What to Expect
- A short conversation to understand your requirements and security goals.
- Discussion of commercial terms for relevant Secfense solutions such as Passwordless IAM, CIAM, Legacy App Protection, or Privileged Access controls.
- Agreement on next steps — proof of concept, contract details, or rollout plan.
Who It’s For
- Prospects ready to scope a project and discuss budgets.
- Existing customers expanding Secfense coverage to more systems.
- Organizations in the decision/purchase stage after reviewing our solution areas.
Antoni Sikora 