Universal Authentication

Definition Universal authentication is a Web-based identity-verification system that allows users to move from site to site with just one user name and password. The user enters their user name and password at the beginning of their online session, and then the authentication data for any site visited after that is automatically updated to that site. With universal authentication, Internet users can have the freedom to move safely from online banking, to checking their e-mail, to shopping on E-Bay.

Strengths

• Users do not have to enter their information multiple times.
• Eliminates the hassle of memorizing several user names and passwords.
• Having to sign-on only once could protect the users’ privacy and personal information, as well as the online businesses and institutions that offer Web-based services.

Weaknesses

• Browsers need to support universal authentication in order for users to enter their site with their universal password.
• The system is not yet well understood by most users.

Additional Information

• http://tech.inhelsinki.nl/2006-03-23/
• http://www.technologyreview.com/article/16474/page2/
• http://whatis.techtarget.com/definition/0,,sid9_gci1184055,00html

Related Links

• http://www.openauthentication.org/
• http://www.i-sprint.com/axmx.htm
• http://www.technewsworld.com/story/48850.html

JennaGriffin - 22 Feb 2007
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