JSON Web Token

Website

jwt.io

$ Details

Categories

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

Let's Encrypt

Website

letsencrypt.org

$ Details

Categories

#Identity And Access Management #Security & Privacy #Two Factor Authentication #Security Tools

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.

Let's Encrypt features and specs

• Free of Charge
  Let's Encrypt provides SSL/TLS certificates at no cost, making it an economical choice for individuals and businesses.
• Automated Certificate Issuance and Renewal
  The process of obtaining and renewing certificates can be automated using the ACME protocol, reducing manual intervention and administrative overhead.
• Ease of Use
  Let's Encrypt simplifies the process of enabling HTTPS for websites, even for users with limited technical expertise.
• Security
  Let's Encrypt certificates provide strong encryption, improving the security of data transmitted between clients and servers.
• Widely Recognized
  Certificates issued by Let's Encrypt are trusted by all major web browsers and operating systems.
• Promotes Secure Web Practices
  By making SSL/TLS certificates freely available, Let's Encrypt encourages more websites to adopt HTTPS, contributing to a more secure internet.

Possible disadvantages of Let's Encrypt

• Short Duration of Certificates
  Let's Encrypt certificates are valid for only 90 days, requiring more frequent renewals compared to traditional certificate authorities.
• Limited Support Options
  Let's Encrypt relies on community support and documentation, and does not offer dedicated customer support for troubleshooting and assistance.
• No Extended Validation (EV) Certificates
  Let's Encrypt does not issue Extended Validation (EV) certificates, which provide additional verification and a higher level of trust for business websites.
• Potential for Misuse
  Since certificates are issued for free and with minimal validation, there is a risk that cybercriminals might use them for phishing or other malicious activities.
• No Wildcard Certificates for Multi-Level Subdomains
  While Let's Encrypt supports wildcard certificates for single-level subdomains, it doesn't support them for nested subdomains (e.g., *.sub.example.com).
• Reliance on Third-Party Tools for Automation
  Users may need to rely on third-party tools or scripts for automation, which could introduce additional complexity or security risks.

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

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