IDP is most commonly used to refer to Identity ProviderIdentity providers help to prove that users are who they say they are to give them access to websites, apps, and digital systemsIDPs are widely used in businesses, education, government, and online sectors to help with account management and keep organisations secureIn education, IDP can be used to refer to International Degree ProgrammeHowever, in the tech industry, Identity Provider is one of the most common uses when asking what is IDP.

What Is an Identity Provider?

An Identity Provider (IDP) is a tool that helps manage digital identitiesIt verifies a user’s identityTo understand what is IDP, it helps to see how it works: to prove the identity of a user trying to access an online application, the IDP will verify the login detailsIf this is valid, it will confirm that they are who they are and grant access.

For example, an employee may need to access their company email, project management tool, and company portalInstead of having multiple passwords, they could use one company account that is managed by an IDPThis makes it easier to log in and gives IT admin more control when explaining what is IDP to staff.

How Does an IDP Work?

An Identity Provider verifies login details and provides a secure way of authenticating usersThe general process is as follows:

  1. User logs into an applicationThey enter their username and password.
  2. IDP verifies the login details.
  3. If this is correct, they are authenticated.
  4. Authentication details are sent to the applicationThey are granted access based on the security settings.
  5. Depending on the authentication setup, the user can now navigate around the application.

This process is usually supported by SAML, OAuth 2.0, and OpenID Connect.

Types of IDP

There are various types of identity providers:

  • Cloud-Based Identity Providers: These are online tools that businesses can use to manage employee accountsThey help to provide secure access to cloud applicationsThis is useful for businesses with remote workers asking what is IDP in cloud setups.
  • Enterprise Identity Providers: These are identity providers designed for organisations that require an identity and access management systemIT can create employee accounts, set permissions, and revoke access.
  • Social Identity Providers: These can be used to log into websites using existing accountsSome websites provide options such as logging in with Google or AppleThis means you don’t have to create new usernames and passwords.
  • Government and Education Identity Providers: Government agencies or educational institutions may have an identity system for students, employees, citizens, or authorised usersThis can give them access to online portals, academic records, public services, and internal applications.

Key Benefits of Using an IDP

Identity providers can provide several benefits.

  • Secure Accounts: An Identity Provider can provide enhanced security such as multi-factor authentication (MFA)This means users may have to verify their identity using a second method such as an authentication app or security keyThis can make it harder for someone to gain unauthorised access even if they know the password.
  • Single Sign-On: Single Sign-On (SSO) means that users can gain access to multiple connected applicationsFor example, an employee can log in once and then have access to their company email, documents, and business applications.
  • Central Management: Organisations can manage user accounts from one systemAdmins can assign roles, change permissions, and turn off accountsThis can be useful for companies with a lot of employees and digital applications.
  • Improved User Experience: Users won’t have to remember multiple passwords for their connected applicationsThis can also reduce the number of support tickets relating to passwords.

IDP vs IAM

While these are similar terms, they do not have the exact same meaning.

IDP I AM Verifies digital identities Identity and Access Management SSO Gives access to multiple applications MFA Extra verification

An Identity Provider is often a key part of an organisation’s Identity and Access Management (IAM) strategy.

Choosing an IDP

It is important to understand what your organisation’s security and business requirements areConsider the following:

  • Look for extra security features such as MFA, encryption, and monitoring.
  • Ensure it works with your current software.
  • Make sure it is easy to use.
  • Can it scale to support your business in the future?
  • Is it easy to manage accounts and permissions?

A small business may want something simple and cloud-basedHowever, a large organisation may want something more advanced with more identity management features.

Final Thoughts

It is important to understand what is IDP and how it worksIdentity verification plays a big part in keeping online systems secureAn Identity Provider helps users access their applications whilst organisations can manage their accounts and permissions more efficiently.

Whether it’s a cloud-based login or enterprise authentication, IDPs make it easier to access digital systemsChoosing the right solution can help keep your accounts secure, give employees easy access, and create a safe working environment online.