JSON Web Token

Website

jwt.io

$ Details

Categories

#Identity Provider #Identity And Access Management #SSO #Development

Authy

Website

authy.com

$ Details

-

Categories

#Identity And Access Management #Two Factor Authentication #Password Management #Authentication

JSON Web Token features and specs

• Stateless
  Since JWTs are self-contained, they do not require server-side sessions, enabling stateless authentication and reducing server memory usage.
• Scalability
  JWTs can easily be used in distributed systems and microservices architectures due to their stateless nature, facilitating horizontal scaling.
• Decentralized Issuance
  Multiple issuers can create and sign their own tokens, allowing for more decentralized and flexible authentication mechanisms.
• Performance
  JWTs eliminate the need for database lookups during authenticating requests, as the token contains all the necessary information, which can lead to performance improvements.
• Cross-domain and Mobile Compatible
  JWTs are widely supported by different platforms and can easily be used in cross-domain situations and with mobile applications.
• Security
  JWTs can be signed and optionally encrypted, ensuring the authenticity and integrity of the data they carry.

Possible disadvantages of JSON Web Token

• Size
  JWTs tend to be larger than session IDs, which can increase the amount of data transmitted during requests.
• Expiration Handling
  Managing token expiration can be complex. Once a token is issued, it remains valid until it expires or is explicitly revoked.
• No Built-in Revocation
  Unlike sessions, JWTs cannot be easily revoked server-side, making it difficult to immediately invalidate tokens without additional mechanisms.
• Security Risks
  If a JWT is intercepted or compromised, it can be used until it expires. Thus, it should be properly secured and transmitted over HTTPS.
• Token Overhead
  Embedding too much information in the token payload can lead to performance overhead and potential data exposure risks.
• Complexity
  Implementing JWT correctly requires a thorough understanding of security practices and token lifecycle management, which can add complexity to the system.

Authy features and specs

• Multi-device synchronization
  Authy allows users to sync their 2FA tokens across multiple devices, which provides a convenient way to access tokens from phones, tablets, and desktops.
• Encrypted backups
  Authy provides encrypted backups of the 2FA tokens to the cloud, ensuring that users can recover their tokens in case of device loss or damage.
• Offline usage capability
  Authy can generate 2FA codes even when the user’s device is offline, providing access to tokens without requiring an active internet connection.
• Desktop app available
  Authy offers a desktop application that allows users to manage and use their 2FA tokens directly from their computer, enhancing accessibility and usability.
• Security features
  Authy includes advanced security features such as PIN protection and biometric login options, adding an additional layer of security to the 2FA tokens.

Possible disadvantages of Authy

• Dependency on cloud service
  Authy’s cloud-based backup and multi-device synchronization features create a dependency on their cloud service, which may raise privacy and security concerns for some users.
• Limited customization options
  Compared to some other authentication apps, Authy offers fewer options for custom-tailoring the appearance and organization of the 2FA tokens.
• Potential for lockout
  If users forget their Authy backup password or lose access to all trusted devices, they may have difficulty recovering their 2FA tokens, leading to a potential lockout of their accounts.
• Initial setup complexity
  The initial setup process, which includes account verification and device synchronization, may be more complex and time-consuming compared to other simpler 2FA apps.
• Limited platform support
  While Authy supports major platforms such as iOS, Android, and Windows, it does not have the same broad platform compatibility as some other 2FA solutions, potentially limiting its usability for some users.

JSON Web Tokens Suck - Randall Degges (DevNet Create 2018)

More videos:

How to Use Authy To Keep Your Data Safe

More videos: