Single Sign-On (SSO) helps employees access every approved application with one secure login. The challenge isn’t deciding if you need SSO, it’s choosing a provider that fits your tech stack, security posture and compliance needs.
This guide explains what to look for, compares leading SSO providers (Okta, OneLogin, Microsoft Entra ID [formerly Azure AD], Ping Identity, Auth0), and shows why My1Login is a strong choice for organisations prioritising UK/EU-based enterprise security.
What to look for in an SSO provider
Integration coverage
- Native support for SAML/OIDC, plus options for legacy, desktop, VDI/Citrix, RDP and custom apps.
- Directory and HRIS integrations (e.g., AD/LDAP/Azure AD).
Security standards
- MFA, conditional access, risk signals, session controls, encryption, and strong key management.
Ease of deployment & admin
- Low/no-code rollouts, automated provisioning (SCIM), policy templates, clear logging & reporting.
User experience
- Consistent “login once, access everything”, passwordless options, smooth mobile access.
Compliance, hosting & data residency
- ISO 27001-aligned controls, data location options (UK/EU), robust SLAs and audit trails.
Support & TCO
- Responsive support, transparent pricing, and features that reduce helpdesk load (fewer resets, fewer access tickets).
SSO Provider Overviews
My1Login: Best for UK/EU Enterprises and Legacy App Coverage
My1Login delivers Single Sign-On across cloud, desktop, virtualised, and legacy applications without requiring code changes. It supports integration where many US-based competitors do not, including applications without SAML or OIDC support. Hosting can be located entirely within the UK or EU, making it ideal for organisations prioritising data residency and GDPR compliance.
Best for: Public sector, enterprises requiring UK data hosting, organisations with a mix of modern and legacy systems.
Okta
Okta is one of the most widely known SSO providers and offers a large catalogue of pre-integrated cloud apps. It is strong in cloud identity management but may require additional tools or agents for legacy or on-premise applications. Data hosting is typically US-based, which may present regulatory challenges for certain organisations.
Best for: Global enterprises with primarily cloud-based infrastructure.
Microsoft Entra ID (formerly Azure AD)
Microsoft’s identity platform integrates seamlessly with Microsoft 365 and Azure environments. It provides strong SSO capabilities for cloud and hybrid environments but often relies on third-party tools or additional configuration to support non-Microsoft legacy applications.
Best for: Organisations already invested heavily in the Microsoft ecosystem.
OneLogin
Now part of One Identity, OneLogin offers SSO with integrated MFA and directory services. It provides good support for cloud apps but is less robust when it comes to custom or legacy application integration.
Best for: Mid-sized businesses needing a cloud-first SSO solution.
Ping Identity
Ping specialises in enterprise identity federation and is strong in complex or hybrid environments. However, it often requires significant configuration and professional services, which can increase deployment time.
Best for: Large enterprises with sophisticated architecture and internal IT resources.
Auth0
Auth0 is popular with developers for embedding authentication into applications and portals. While highly flexible for CIAM use cases, it is less focused on workforce Single Sign-On and may not offer the same breadth of legacy application integration.
Best for: Developers building customer-facing applications.
Final Verdict: Which SSO Provider Is Best?
If your organisation is UK/EU-based, operates in a regulated industry, or needs SSO for both modern and legacy applications, My1Login stands out as the most complete and compliant solution. Unlike many US-based providers, My1Login offers full data residency control, making it a strong strategic choice for data-sensitive sectors such as finance, government, healthcare, and critical infrastructure.
Book a demo with My1Login to see how it integrates seamlessly with your existing infrastructure and delivers secure identity management across your entire application estate.
