The Initiative for Open Authentication (OATH) is a collaborative effort of IT industry leaders aimed at providing a reference architecture for universal strong authentication across all users and all devices over all networks. Using open standards, OATH will offer more hardware choices, lower cost of ownership, and allow customers to replace existing disparate and proprietary security systems whose complexity often leads to higher costs.
High Level Features of OATH Reference Architecture:
- Open, royalty-free specification leveraging existing standards where possible.
- Device innovation supporting various authentication form factors.
- Interoperable modules for flexible solution development.
- Native platform support integrating with existing identity platforms.
Benefits for Authentication Solution Providers:
- Interoperability and networking opportunities.
- Comprehensive framework for end-to-end solutions.
- Reduced R&D costs with open standards.
- Encourages technology innovation.
Benefits for Enterprises Deploying Authentication:
- Increased user acceptance of strong authentication.
- Potential revenue growth through enhanced security.
- Reduced deployment costs with simplified integration.
- Vendor flexibility avoiding vendor lock-in.
Benefits for Consumers:
- Lower identity theft risks through strong authentication.
- Improved user experience with diverse authentication devices.