API Security

JSON Web Tokens and OAuth in API Security JSON Web Tokens and OAuth are two common tools for protecting APIs. OAuth 2.0 provides a way to authorize access, while JWT is a compact token format that can carry identity and permission data. Used together, they help apps prove who they are and what they can do, without sending passwords on every request. In a typical setup, an OAuth 2.0 server issues an access token after the client proves its identity. That token is often a JWT, signed with a private key. The resource server can verify the signature with a public key and read the claims, such as the user id, the allowed scopes, and the token’s expiry. ...

Secure APIs: Authentication, Authorization and Rate Limiting APIs are the backbone of modern software. To keep data safe and services reliable, you need a clear plan for authentication, authorization, and rate limiting. These three parts work together: authentication verifies who is calling, authorization decides what they can do, and rate limiting controls how fast they can go. Getting all three right reduces risk and improves user experience. Authentication There are several common options that fit different scenarios: ...

Secure API Design and Middleware Governance Secure API design starts with a simple goal: make every call secure by default, from who can access to what data is returned. Middleware — the layer that sits between clients and services — should enforce clear policies rather than rely on every team to reinvent the wheel. When governance is in place, teams share rules for authentication, rate limits, and logging, reducing surprises in production. ...

API Security Fundamentals: Protecting Endpoints APIs are the doors to modern services. Endpoints face many threats, from weak passwords to automated abuse. A solid security base helps you protect data, keep users safe, and stay reliable as you grow. Think of security as a design choice, not a last step. Protecting endpoints starts with identity and access. Treat every request as untrusted and verify who is calling, and what they can do. A gateway can help by acting as the first line of defense before requests reach internal services. ...

API Security: Protecting Access and Data APIs connect services and people, but they also open doors to data. A small security gap can expose user details, disrupt operations, and raise costs. Good API security blends people, processes, and technology. It focuses on who can access what, how access is granted, and how data stays protected at every step. Protecting access starts with strong authentication and clear authorization. Use proven standards like OAuth 2.0 and OpenID Connect for user access, and apply short-lived tokens with narrow scopes. For service-to-service calls, consider mutual TLS (mTLS) where possible. Treat every token as a trust certificate: validate its audience, expiry, and the specific actions allowed. Keep credentials rotating, and revoke access when needed. Favor least privilege: tokens should never grant more permission than necessary. ...

API Security: Protecting Endpoints and Keys Every API opens a door to data and services. Strong security for endpoints and the keys that grant access keeps your system safe and trustworthy. This guide explains practical strategies you can apply today, with simple terms and clear steps. Why API security matters APIs expose actions, data, and workflows. A small mistake can let an attacker move from reading data to issuing commands. Keys and tokens are powerful, so they must be protected like a password. ...

API Security: Protecting Endpoints and Data APIs connect apps, devices, and users. A single weak endpoint can expose data or allow misuse. Security should be built into the API design: check who can call, what they can do, and how data moves. A simple rule helps: assume threats and block them with clear controls. Protecting Endpoints Securing endpoints means controlling access at every entry point. Use a central authentication system and enforce authorization on each request. Validate input to block common attacks and apply rate limits to slow abuse. A gateway or service mesh can apply these rules consistently across many services. ...

Shipping Secure APIs: Threat Models and Tests Shipping secure APIs means designing, building, and testing interfaces with security in mind from day one. APIs connect teams, partners, and customers, and a weak point can expose data or undermine trust. The goal is to map possible attacks against your API surface and verify that defenses work in real life. Threat modeling: a lightweight approach A practical start is to ask three questions: what are we protecting, who might attack, and where can attackers reach us? Make a quick list of data, users, and services, then map endpoints, webhooks, and queues. Use a simple STRIDE lens to spot risks: Spoofing, Tampering, Information disclosure, Denial of service, and Elevation of privilege. This helps teams discuss risks without heavy tooling. ...

Building Secure APIs for Scalable Applications Building secure APIs is essential as applications grow. A well protected API saves time, money, and trust. When many clients rely on your service, small weaknesses can become big problems. A security‑first approach keeps systems resilient and easier to maintain. Start with clear boundaries around authentication, authorization, and data protection. Use a centralized gateway or service mesh to apply security rules consistently. Protect every layer, from transport to data stores, and design for failure so delays or outages don’t leak sensitive information. ...