Token Management

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. ...

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. ...

Secure API Design: Authentication, Authorization, and Rate Limiting Designing secure APIs means more than just keeping data private. It requires clear rules about who can connect, what actions they can perform, and how fast they may request resources. A thoughtful design helps both developers and users by reducing surprises and errors. Authentication Authentication confirms identity. Modern APIs often use a mix of API keys, tokens, and standards like OAuth 2.0 with OpenID Connect. A recommended pattern is to issue short‑lived access tokens, validate them on every call, and use refresh tokens for long sessions. Always enforce TLS, validate the token signature, and check the intended audience and issuer. Store secrets securely, rotate keys regularly, and log failures for anomaly detection. Favor token-based flows over long‑lived credentials, and keep endpoints simple so clients know how to obtain and renew access. ...

Building Secure Web Apps: OAuth, JWT, and Beyond Secure web apps hinge on clear identity and careful token use. OAuth 2.0 lets apps access user data without passwords, while OpenID Connect adds login. JWTs carry information in a compact token, but they must be validated and kept short-lived. In practice, combine OAuth with OpenID Connect for sign-in and use PKCE for public clients like mobile apps or browser SPAs. Treat access tokens as keys to APIs. Protect them in transit with TLS and store them securely; httpOnly cookies are a safe default for web apps. Request only the permissions you need with scopes. ...