---
sidebar_position: 1
sidebar_label: Authentication
doc_id: 32e95e7f-7a23-4fe4-93b4-a9cac87b84e7
description: >-
  Overview of nullplatform authentication methods including username/password,
  SAML SSO, and API keys.
keywords:
  - authentication
  - SAML
  - SSO
  - API key
  - identity providers
---

# Authentication

Authentication is a fundamental aspect of securing access to nullplatform. This document provides an overview of the
supported authentication methods: username and password, and SAML authentication with external identity providers
(IDPs).

## Username & password

Username and password authentication, commonly known as 'basic authentication,' is our default method for user
verification. With this method, you have to invite organization users, and each new member will receive an invitation
email containing a temporary password.

## SAML with external identity providers

SAML (Security Assertion Markup Language) is a widely adopted standard for enabling Single Sign-On (SSO) across multiple
applications.

This document will guide you through the setup and configuration of SAML authentication with external IDPs, ensuring
secure and seamless access to your application.

In the following sections, we’ll walk through the configuration steps for implementing both authentication
methods.

## API key

API key authentication is an alternative method for securing access to nullplatform. This authentication method is
particularly useful for programmatic access and automation scenarios. Users can obtain an API key to authenticate and
interact with nullplatform programmatically.

Read the [API key](../authorization/api-keys.md) section for more information about this method.