Enhancing Security with SharePoint Server 2010 Claims-Based Authentication

Understanding Claims-Based Authentication

Claims-Based Authentication is a modern approach to user identity verification that focuses on the exchange of claims - pieces of information about the user that the system can trust. This method is particularly useful in addressing privacy regulations and the need for interoperability among diverse systems.

The Real-World Challenges

• Privacy regulations restrict the type of user information that can be collected and stored.
• Businesses and government entities require secure, compliant integration across different systems with varying authentication methods.

Claims-Based Authentication tackles these issues by requesting less personal information and relying on trusted systems to verify identities. It also facilitates system integration through open standards and specialized identity connectors.

Implementing Claims-Based Authentication

The implementation of Claims-Based Authentication in SharePoint Server 2010 involves several components:

• Windows Identity Foundation: Previously known as the Geneva framework, this programming library is essential for building claims-aware applications and is utilized by SharePoint 2010.
• Active Directory Federation Services (ADFS): ADFS services are responsible for creating, accepting, and transforming tokens containing claims.
• Cardspace: This user interface allows users to select the identity card they wish to use for system access.

However, it's important to note that Claims-Based Authentication does not manage the lifecycle of identity information. For instance, it won't inherently restrict contractors from accessing sensitive company financial spreadsheets. SharePoint's role-based access control model also requires enhancements to fully address such security needs.

Advancements from MOSS 2007

SharePoint Server 2010 introduced Claims-Based Authentication, a feature not available in its predecessor, MOSS 2007, which relied on native Active Directory-based authentication. Alongside this feature, SharePoint Server 2010 offers other exclusive features and free SharePoint templates or web parts to enhance user experience.

Conclusion

Claims-Based Authentication in SharePoint Server 2010 represents a significant step forward in secure user authentication and system integration. While it addresses key challenges in the digital identity landscape, it is part of a broader security framework that includes other SharePoint features and enhancements.

About the Author

Adrian Gates (adrian@apps4rent.com) is a Business Manager at Apps4Rent, a provider of Microsoft Exchange Hosting, Windows SharePoint Services, SharePoint Foundation 2010, SharePoint Server 2010, and virtual dedicated servers.