An application server enables a secure network interaction. The application server receives a request for the secure network interaction from a third-party server. In response, the application server determines a security procedure, such as an authentication procedure, and a client corresponding to the secure network interaction. The client includes a secure desktop agent (SDA). The application server sends a message to the client that activates the SDA. The SDA establishes a secure connection with the application server. The SDA receives user credentials in a secure desktop environment and transmits them to the application server over the secure connection. The application verifies the user credentials and sends a digitally-signed authenticated response to the third-party server.