VIP ADFS login gets stuck in a loop during authentication

Products

• VIP Service

Issue/Introduction

After configuring and implementing the JavaScript for ADFS, the authentication process gets stuck in a loop.

Cause

The root cause of this issue is typically linked to an incomplete or failed communication between the client machine and the ADFS server. Specifically, the JavaScript request can reach the ADFS endpoint, but a response is not being sent back to the client, causing the authentication to loop continuously without completing.

Resolution

To resolve this issue, follow the steps below to identify and fix the underlying problem:

1. Check ADFS Logs for Proxy Interception:

• Access the ADFS logs on the ADFS server. These logs should provide valuable information about the request and response lifecycle during the authentication process.

• Look for any signs of network interference or proxy-related errors in the ADFS logs, particularly those related to traffic interception or failed communication between the client and the ADFS server.

• Common error messages include issues related to a proxy misconfiguration or timeouts in returning responses.

2. Verify Proxy Configuration:

• Ensure that any proxy servers in the network path are correctly configured to handle and forward requests between the client machine and ADFS server.

• The JavaScript-based request initiated by the client must be allowed to pass through the proxy both on the outbound and return journeys.

• Check for any firewall rules or network policies that might block inbound or outbound traffic between the client and the ADFS server.

3. Confirm Network Flow:

• Make sure that the inbound traffic with the JavaScript is able to flow freely from the client to the ADFS server. Also, ensure the response traffic can return to the client machine without being blocked or intercepted by the proxy or firewall.

• If the client is behind a corporate firewall or proxy, check the port configuration (e.g., port 443 for HTTPS) and ensure that all required ports for the ADFS communication are open.

4. You may need to work with your network team to verify and adjust proxy and firewall rules to ensure that ADFS-related traffic can pass through without restrictions.

 

Additional Information

• Clear Browser Cache and Cookies:
  Sometimes, stale session cookies or cached data in the browser can contribute to the authentication loop. Clear your browser’s cache and cookies, or try using an incognito window to perform a fresh login attempt.

• Check for Updates:
  Ensure that you are using the latest VIP Enterprise Gateway versions.