What Is "Sign in with Google"?

"Sign in with Google" allows users to log into third-party applications using their Google credentials via OAuth 2.0, without sharing their actual passwords. Although convenient, it comes with critical limitations.

Key Differences Between "Sign in with Google" and True SSO

True Single Sign-On provides centralized access to multiple applications using a single set of credentials. Major differences include:

Application Integration

• Sign in with Google: Restricted to apps supporting Google's OAuth.

• True SSO: Universally integrates with diverse applications, regardless of platform.

Identity Provider Control

• Sign in with Google: Dependent entirely on Google’s identity system, limiting internal governance.

• True SSO: Enables full organizational control over identity management and compliance.

User Management Capabilities

• Sign in with Google: Minimal capabilities for user provisioning and deprovisioning.

• True SSO: Robust, automated user lifecycle management.

Security Risks of Using Only "Sign in with Google"

Relying exclusively on Google credentials introduces significant risks:

• Single Point of Failure: A compromised Google account can jeopardize multiple linked services.

• Limited Security Control: Difficulty enforcing specific access policies and detailed user monitoring.

• Compliance Issues: Potential regulatory and privacy concerns stemming from dependence on an external provider.

Recommended Secure Authentication Alternatives

For enhanced security and control, organizations should explore the follow methods.

Google Workspace as an Identity Provider (IdP)

Google Workspace supports SAML-based SSO, allowing organizations to control access to apps using centralized user and group policies. By configuring Google Workspace as your IdP, you can combine the convenience of Google accounts with the ability to enforce fine-grained access controls, automate user provisioning, and maintain stronger governance over authentication and authorization.

SAML-Based Single Sign-On

Security Assertion Markup Language (SAML) provides secure and standardized authentication across multiple services. Platforms like JumpCloud, Okta, and Microsoft Entra offer SAML-based SSO with centralized user control, policy enforcement, and lifecycle automation. These solutions are purpose-built for organizational identity governance, making them more secure and manageable than relying on OAuth-based login methods like "Sign in with Google."

Best Practices for Strengthening Authentication

Improve your organization's security posture with these key practices:

• Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Significantly enhance security by requiring multiple verification steps.

• Regular Security Reviews: Periodically audit user access and authentication methods to address vulnerabilities.

• Continuous User Education: Train employees on secure authentication practices and credential management.

How ShiftControl Enhances Your Authentication Security

ShiftControl is built on top of Google Workspace to help turn it into a powerful, enterprise-grade identity provider—without the immediate need to upgrade to platforms like JumpCloud or Okta. We make it easy to centrally manage user access, enforce authentication policies, and configure SAML-based SSO, all within your existing Google environment.

For small businesses and startups, this means you can delay costly transitions to complex IAM platforms while still gaining the benefits of streamlined user management, enhanced security, and improved compliance. ShiftControl saves you money, helps you stay organized, and adds critical security controls—all without adding unnecessary complexity.