What is a SAML AuthnRequest?
SAML 2.0 is an XML-based SSO protocol. A Service Provider (SP) sends an AuthnRequest to an Identity Provider (IdP). After authentication, the IdP returns a SAMLResponse containing an Assertion with NameID, attributes, and Conditions.
This tool helps you craft AuthnRequests, choose Redirect or POST binding, and inspect/decrypt/verify assertions that land on the Utilxo ACS callback — ideal for integrating enterprise IdPs.
How to use this tool
- Import IdP metadata (XML file or metadata URL) to auto-fill Entity ID, SSO endpoints, and signing certificate — or configure SP entity ID, ACS URL, and IdP values manually.
- Generate SP metadata XML to download or host temporarily for IdP registration, then send an AuthnRequest via Redirect or POST binding.
- Use Deflate Utility to inflate Redirect SAMLRequest URLs or deflate XML for HTTP-Redirect debugging.
- After IdP login, open the ACS viewer to decrypt, verify signatures, and validate Issuer/Audience/Conditions.
Frequently asked questions
Is assertion XML stored on the server?
The ACS route bridges the SAMLResponse into sessionStorage for client-side decode. Crypto helpers may run server-assisted operations in memory without long-term logging.
Can I test encrypted assertions?
Yes. Provide the SP decryption key material and inspect plaintext AttributeStatements after decrypt.
How do I use IdP / SP metadata?
Paste or fetch IdP EntityDescriptor XML to populate SSO URL and signing cert. Generate SP metadata from your ACS/entity settings, then download it or host a temporary URL (60 minutes) for portals that require a live metadata endpoint. Private keys are never included in hosted SP metadata.