Comparative Analysis of Proxy and SAML Authentication Systems: Implementation at Chulalongkorn University
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Abstract
The purpose of this research is to analyze and compare user experiences of Proxy-based and SAML authentication systems for access to electronic information resources at the Office of Academic Resources, Chulalongkorn University. The study included collecting and analyzing of user access data from both systems across two phases: the three months before the implementation of OpenAthens (May–July 2025) and the following period (August–October 2025). Quantitative research approaches were utilized, including descriptive statistics to examine user behaviors and patterns of electronic resource utilization. The results demonstrate a steady decrease in users utilizing resources through EZproxy after the implementation of OpenAthens, while the number of users accessing via OpenAthens significantly increased. Analysis of the database platform revealed a decline in access through EZproxy across all platforms, while access via OpenAthens indicated a growing pattern. The three platforms with the highest access levels were Elsevier, SpringerNature Link, and Wiley Online Library. These findings highlight the effectiveness of SAML-based authentication in augmenting accessibility and enhancing the overall user experience in higher education institutions.
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