Use Case: Auto-login / SSO from Active Directory via Kerberos in domain joined machines
Overview
This use case outlines the process of enabling automatic user login on domain-joined machines within an intranet network using Kerberos authentication. It describes the setup of Kerberos authentication for a WordPress (WP) site hosted on various server configurations (IIS Windows, Apache Linux, Apache Windows) and the implementation of Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) for logins initiated outside the intranet network.
Scenario:
A multinational organization with offices across different geographical locations utilizes a centralized IT infrastructure with domain-joined machines for employee workstations. It hosts various internal applications, including a WordPress-based intranet site. Each workstation within the organization's premises is joined to the Active Directory.
Problem Statement:
- Upon starting the system employees should be automatically logged in using Kerberos authentication.
- Employees logging in from outside the corporate network are prompted to authenticate using MFA, which typically involves entering a verification code sent to their registered device (e.g., mobile phone).
Components:
- Active Directory Integration / LDAP Integration Plugin
- Kerberos Authentication
- Multi-Factor Authentication
Solution:
The solution entails deploying auto-login using Kerberos authentication on domain-joined machines within the corporation's network. This setup ensures seamless and secure access for employees, with workstations automatically authenticating using Kerberos credentials upon startup.
The Kerberos authentication is also configured for the organization's internal WordPress intranet site, providing employees with a unified and secure login experience.
For enhanced security, Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is implemented for remote access, requiring external users to verify their identity through multiple factors. This approach optimizes access while bolstering security with tailored Kerberos and MFA protocols.
Benefit:
- Enhanced Security: Kerberos authentication and MFA strengthen access controls and protect company resources from unauthorized access.
- Improved User Experience: Auto-login within the intranet network reduces login time and enhances employee productivity.
- Simplified Authentication: The centralized Kerberos setup provides a unified authentication mechanism for domain-joined machines and internal web applications.
- Remote Access Control: MFA ensures secure remote access to company resources, even from external locations.
Conclusion:
By implementing auto-login on domain-joined machines using Kerberos, configuring Kerberos authentication for the WordPress intranet site, and setting up Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) for external logins, the corporation ensures a secure and efficient access control system tailored to its corporate environment. This approach boosts employee productivity and strengthens the organization's overall security posture, safeguarding sensitive data and resources against potential threats.
