Generic SAML

Understanding Generic SAML

This article describes how Perimeter 81 allows users to authenticate against an external IdP using the Security Assertion Markup Language (SAML) protocol. 

The platform can automatically manage the IdP added Members and assign them to IdP correlating Groups.

SAML-based federation involves two parties:

An identity provider (IdP): authenticates users and provides to Service Providers an Authentication Assertion if successful.

A service provider (SP): relies on the Identity Provider to authenticate users.
Perimeter 81 supports the SAML protocol and can serve as the service provider for users that are authenticated by different IdPs.

During the login process, Members will be redirected to the IdP in order to authenticate.

Once the user is authenticated, Perimeter 81 will get a SAML assertion and associate the Member with the appropriate role and policies.

How to integrate with a SAML IdP

In order to integrate with a SAML IdP, you will need to create a dedicated Perimeter 81 Application within your SAML IdP.

Most of the IdPs will require the following information when creating a new application:

• Single sign-on URL: https://auth.perimeter81.com/login/callback?connection={{WORKSPACE}}-oc
• Audience URI (SP Entity ID): urn:auth0:perimeter81:{{WORKSPACE}}-oc

In order to map the IdP members correctly the following attributes have to be passed to the platform:

Should you require to pass group memberships to Perimeter 81:

Once the application is created you'll be provided with the following information:

• X.509 Certificate
• IdP Sign-in URL

Configuring Perimeter 81

You need to configure the integration from the Perimeter 81 side.

1. Log in to your Perimeter 81 Management Platform, and navigate to Settings and then Identity Providers.
2. Select + Add Provider.
   
3. Select SAML 2.0 Identity Cloud.
4. Fill in the Sign In URL provided by the IdP.
5. Add your organization domains.
6. Paste the X.509 Certificate provided by the IdP.
   
7. Select Save.

Recommendations

• When integrating with a SAML IdP, ensure you create a dedicated Perimeter 81 Application within your SAML IdP.
• Always replace placeholders like {{WORKSPACE}} with your actual workspace name when setting up.
• Ensure the correct attributes (Email Address, First Name, Last Name) are passed to the platform for accurate member mapping.
• If passing group memberships to Perimeter 81, ensure the correct IdP Object to Perimeter 81 Mapping is used

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues during or after the setup, try reviewing your settings to ensure everything matches the instructions. In particular, check the IP addresses and other details you entered during setup. If issues persist, please consult our dedicated support.

Support Contacts

If you have any difficulties or questions, don't hesitate to contact Perimeter 81's support team. We offer 24/7 chat support on our website at Perimeter81.com, or you can email us at [email protected]. We're here to assist you and ensure your VPN tunnel setup is a success.