SAML vs OIDC: Which Should You Choose?
Compare SAML and OIDC on enterprise SSO, implementation, and usage. Discover which auth protocol best fits your organization.
SAML is the standard for enterprise SSO; OIDC is lighter and better for modern apps. Many IdPs support both; choose SAML for legacy SSO, OIDC for new projects.
SAML
XML-based enterprise SSO protocol, long-standing standard for identity federation.
OIDC
OAuth 2.0 extension based on JSON/JWT, popular for modern apps and APIs.
What are the key differences between SAML and OIDC?
| Feature | SAML | OIDC |
|---|---|---|
| Format | XML, more complex | JSON/JWT, simpler |
| Use case | Enterprise SSO, IdP-initiated | Web/mobile apps, API auth |
| Implementation | More config, metadata exchange | Simpler, REST endpoints |
| Adoption | Legacy enterprise, Edu, Gov | Modern SaaS, startups |
What is the verdict on SAML vs OIDC?
SAML is the standard for enterprise SSO; OIDC is lighter and better for modern apps. Many IdPs support both; choose SAML for legacy SSO, OIDC for new projects.
Which option does MG Software recommend?
MG Software recommends OIDC for new SaaS and APIs. For enterprise integrations with existing IdPs, we support both.
Frequently asked questions
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