What does Security Assertion Markup Language (SAML) primarily facilitate?

Security Assertion Markup Language (SAML) primarily facilitates authentication and authorization data exchange between an identity provider and a service provider. SAML is an open standard that allows users to authenticate at one service and then access other connected services without needing to log in again, effectively enabling single sign-on (SSO) capabilities. This means that SAML plays a critical role in managing user identities and streamlining secure access across various applications by securely transmitting user credentials and permissions.

In many educational environments, implementing SAML can enhance user experience for students and faculty by reducing the number of credentials they need to manage while ensuring that their data remains secure. This implementation not only simplifies access to different educational systems but also helps in maintaining compliance with data protection regulations.

While the other options relate to important aspects of technology and infrastructure, they do not capture the specific purpose of SAML. Data integration across K-12 schools pertains to the aggregation and synchronization of different data sources, while directory services over IP networks focus on the management of network resources. Additionally, web service interactions for portlets involve specific application programming practices that do not align with the core purpose of SAML in identity management and secure data exchange.