IDP

An identity provider (IDP) is responsible for storing and overseeing the digital identities of users. It can be compared to a guest list for digital and cloud-based applications, rather than a physical event. The IDP verifies user identities by means of username-password combinations and other factors, or it can simply provide a list of user identities for another service provider (such as a Single Sign-On) to verify.

IDPs have the capability to authenticate not only human users but also any entity connected to a network or system, including computers and other devices. These entities stored by an IdP are referred to as "principals" instead of "users." However, IdPs are predominantly utilized in cloud computing environments for managing user identities.