What is a key benefit of using SAML for authentication and authorization?

Using SAML (Security Assertion Markup Language) for authentication and authorization significantly reduces the attack surface for organizations. This occurs because SAML facilitates a single sign-on (SSO) experience, allowing users to authenticate once and gain access to multiple applications without needing to enter their credentials repeatedly. By minimizing the number of times users input their credentials, SAML inherently reduces the risk of credentials being intercepted during transmission or captured through phishing attacks.

Additionally, SAML permits the use of robust authentication methods and user identity verification processes, which enhances security. By handling the authentication process through a centralized identity provider, organizations can implement strong security measures at that point, rather than relying on each application to enact its own, which might lead to inconsistencies in security practices across the board.

This is different from allowing access to legacy apps, monitoring user activities, or eliminating the need for SSO, which either do not align with the primary benefits SAML offers or directly contradict its functionality.