SSO (Single Sign-On)
What is SSO (Single Sign-On)?
SSO (Single Sign-On) is an authentication method that allows users to access multiple applications or platforms with a single set of login credentials. For creators, SSO enables customers to log in once and seamlessly access their courses, membership sites, communities, and other products without re-entering credentials.
How SSO Works
- Initial Login: User signs in to your main platform or account
- Token Created: System generates a secure authentication token
- Token Verified: Connected apps recognize the token
- Access Granted: User accesses all connected services without logging in again
Benefits of SSO
For Customers
- One password to remember
- Faster access to purchased products
- Seamless experience across platforms
- Reduced login friction and frustration
For Creators
- Lower support tickets for password issues
- Better user experience improves satisfaction
- Higher engagement with connected products
- Easier product bundle delivery
- Professional, enterprise-level experience
SSO Use Cases for Creators
Course + Community
Students log into your course platform and are automatically signed into your community (Discord, Circle, Slack) without a second login.
Multiple Products
Customers who purchase multiple digital products access all of them through a single student portal login.
Membership Access
Members access all membership benefits—courses, resources, community—with one account.
White-Label Solutions
If you offer white-labeled products to other businesses, SSO connects your platform to their existing user systems.
Common SSO Implementations
Platform-Native SSO
Built-in connection between apps from the same provider:
- All Kajabi products share login
- Thinkific courses connected to communities
- Unified account across product suite
Social Login
Allow login via existing accounts:
- Sign in with Google
- Sign in with Apple
- Sign in with Facebook
Enterprise SSO
Corporate-grade protocols:
- SAML (Security Assertion Markup Language)
- OAuth 2.0 / OpenID Connect
- LDAP integration
Magic Links
Passwordless SSO via email:
- Click link in email
- Automatically logged into all connected apps
- No password required
SSO Considerations
Choosing SSO Approach
- Native SSO: Best if staying within one platform ecosystem
- Social Login: Good for consumer products, quick signup
- Enterprise SSO: Required for corporate training, B2B
- Custom Integration: Maximum flexibility, higher complexity
Security
- SSO reduces password reuse risks
- Compromised main account affects all connected apps
- Implement two-factor authentication (2FA)
- Monitor for suspicious login activity
Implementation Complexity
- Simple: Enable social login buttons
- Medium: Connect apps within same ecosystem
- Complex: Custom SSO between different platforms
SSO-Related Features
Magic Link Authentication
- Passwordless login via emailed link
- Great for reducing friction
- Popular with creators using email-first platforms
Member Portals
- Centralized access to all purchased content
- Single dashboard for customers
- Reduces confusion about where to log in
Account Linking
- Connect existing accounts across platforms
- Merge multiple accounts into one
- Consolidate purchase history
Setting Up SSO
Typical steps vary by platform:
- Enable SSO in platform settings
- Configure authentication providers
- Set up redirect URLs
- Test the login flow
- Communicate changes to users
Consult your specific platform documentation for detailed setup instructions.