Top CAS Alternatives for Seamless Single Sign-On
CAS (Central Authentication Service) provides robust enterprise single sign-on capabilities, featuring an open, well-documented protocol, an open-source Java server, and a rich library of clients for various platforms. It integrates seamlessly with popular systems like uPortal, Blackboard, and Moodle, supported by an extensive community. However, specific project needs, budget constraints, or a desire for different feature sets might lead you to explore other excellent CAS alternatives. This guide will help you navigate the best options available.
Top CAS Alternatives
Whether you're looking for open-source flexibility, specific platform compatibility, or advanced security features like multi-factor authentication, these CAS alternatives offer compelling solutions for your identity and access management needs.
FreeIPA
FreeIPA is an integrated security information management solution combining Linux (Fedora), 389 Directory Server, MIT Kerberos, NTP, DNS, and Dogtag (Certificate System). As a free and open-source solution available on Linux, it provides a comprehensive alternative for organizations seeking a unified approach to identity management, making it a strong contender if you value a complete, open-source stack.
LemonLDAP::NG
LemonLDAP::NG offers WebSSO and Access Control features, supporting standard protocols like CAS, OpenID, OpenID Connect, and SAML. This free and open-source solution runs on Windows, Linux, and can be self-hosted, making it a versatile CAS alternative, especially for those needing robust access control and SAML Single Sign-On capabilities.
shibboleth
Shibboleth is a standards-based, open-source software for web single sign-on across or within organizational boundaries, enabling informed authorization decisions. Available for free on Windows, Linux, and self-hosted environments, it's an excellent CAS alternative for federated identity management and single sign-on, particularly for educational and research institutions.
Keycloak
Keycloak is an open-source Identity and Access Management solution designed for modern applications and services. As a free, open-source platform for Linux and self-hosted deployments, Keycloak provides robust features including Federated identity, Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), Single Sign-On, Access Control, and SAML Single Sign-On, making it a powerful and flexible CAS alternative for various enterprise needs.
SimpleSAMLphp
SimpleSAMLphp is a native PHP application focused on authentication, primarily supporting SAML 2.0 as a Service Provider and Identity Provider. It's a free, open-source, and self-hosted solution that offers Single Sign-On capabilities, making it a direct and lightweight CAS alternative particularly for PHP-based environments.
OpenAM
OpenAM provides open-source authentication, authorization, entitlement, and federation software, actively continuing the development of OpenSSO. Available for free on Windows, Linux, and BSD, OpenAM is a comprehensive CAS alternative offering robust Access Control and Single Sign-On features, ideal for organizations seeking a feature-rich, community-driven solution.
Ory
Ory focuses on developer-first Access Management, providing a suite of open-source components for building secure and scalable identity solutions. As a free, open-source, and self-hosted platform, Ory is a modern CAS alternative that caters specifically to developers who need granular control and highly customizable solutions for their applications.
OpenAthens
OpenAthens specializes in single sign-on for libraries and information professionals, adapting to evolving technology and information needs. This commercial SaaS (Software as a Service) web platform offers SAML Single Sign-On, making it a tailored CAS alternative for educational and research institutions looking for a managed service for identity and access.
Connect2id Server
Connect2id Server is an OpenID Connect / OAuth 2 server for single sign-on, identity provision, federation, and securing web APIs with access tokens, with profiles for fintech. As a commercial, self-hosted web solution, it's a powerful CAS alternative for enterprises requiring advanced OpenID Connect and OAuth 2.0 capabilities, especially in regulated industries.
Gluu Server
Gluu Server provides central authentication and authorization for web and mobile applications with Single Sign-On, OAuth2, and LDAP. Available as a freemium, open-source, self-hosted web platform, Gluu Server stands out as a robust CAS alternative, offering advanced features like two-factor authentication, making it suitable for organizations prioritizing strong security and flexibility.
Each of these CAS alternatives brings unique strengths to the table, from comprehensive open-source stacks to specialized commercial services. We encourage you to explore the features, community support, and deployment options of each to determine the best fit for your specific single sign-on and identity management needs.