Single sign-on security network platforms
Parlay is a standard for providing open application programming interfaces (APIs) that allow third party developers to build components that can be integrated into existing networks. The secure parlay platform developed by the project team handles the security and administration features so that implementation of components can concentrate on the applications and services. The platform uses the CORBA Component Model, where the functions of software components are clearly separated so that they can be replaced without recompiling the system. The aim was to use this clear separation of functions in order to simplify the security architecture. The parlay platform offers a 'single sign-on' facility, in that it opens an access session for a user following their authentication, and they remain authenticated for as long as they stay in the access session. Service sessions are then opened in a 'layered' manner on top. The user can use services more easily by executing the service retrieval, subscription and opening in this way. While full compliance with the parlay standard is still under development, the platform provides security and single sign-on capabilities for large heterogeneous networks. A component-based approach is also useful for companies needing to reduce the time to market of secure distributed services.