Single Sign-On (SSO):

1. Purpose: SSO is primarily used for simplifying user authentication and access to multiple applications and services within an organization. It allows users to log in once and gain access to various connected systems without the need to enter credentials repeatedly.
2. User Experience: SSO enhances the user experience by reducing the number of login prompts and eliminating the need for multiple sets of credentials.
3. Use Case: SSO is ideal when you want to provide seamless and convenient access for users across various applications and services within your organization’s ecosystem.
4. Security: SSO can improve security by centralizing authentication and allowing for better control over user access through a single point of authentication.
5. Authentication Standards: It often relies on industry-standard protocols like SAML (Security Assertion Markup Language) or OpenID Connect for authentication and token-based authorization.

 API Integration:

1. Purpose: API integration is used to enable different software applications and systems to communicate with each other and share data or functionality. It’s not focused on user authentication but rather on data exchange and interaction between systems.
2. User Experience: API integration doesn’t have a direct impact on the user experience in terms of authentication or access. It’s more about enabling systems to work together behind the scenes.
3. Use Case: API integration is essential when you need to synchronize data between different systems, automate workflows, or enable third-party applications to access your services.
4. Security: API integration should be implemented with security in mind, as it involves data transfer between systems. Proper security measures, including authentication and authorization, are crucial.
5. Authentication Standards: API integration may use various authentication methods, including API keys, OAuth, or custom authentication mechanisms, depending on the use case and security requirements.

Key Differences:

• Focus: SSO is primarily about user authentication and access management, while API integration is about connecting systems and enabling data exchange.
• User vs. System: SSO is user-centric, benefiting end-users by simplifying their access experience. API integration is system-centric, focusing on the interaction between software applications and services.
• Authentication Standards: SSO often uses standardized authentication protocols like SAML and OpenID Connect. API integration can use a range of authentication methods, depending on the specific requirements.
• Use Cases: SSO is suitable for scenarios where users need seamless access to multiple applications with a single login. API integration is essential for data sharing, automation, and enabling interoperability between software systems.

In many cases, organizations use both SSO and API integration together to create a comprehensive identity and data management solution. SSO simplifies user access, while API integration ensures that different systems can share and use data effectively.