JSON Web Token

Website

jwt.io

$ Details

Categories

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

OAuth2

Website

en.wikipedia.org

$ Details

Categories

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

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.

OAuth2 features and specs

• Delegated Access
  OAuth2 allows users to grant third-party applications limited access to their resources without sharing their credentials.
• Enhanced Security
  By using access tokens with defined scopes and expiration times, OAuth2 reduces the risk of exposing user credentials and allows precise control over resource access.
• Scalability
  OAuth2 is suitable for a wide range of applications, from mobile and web apps to connected devices, allowing seamless integration across platforms.
• User Experience
  OAuth2 enhances user experience by enabling single sign-on (SSO) capabilities, allowing users to authenticate across multiple services with a single set of credentials.

Possible disadvantages of OAuth2

• Complex Implementation
  Implementing OAuth2 can be complex, especially for developers new to the protocol, as it involves understanding various flows, token management, and security considerations.
• Security Challenges
  If not implemented correctly, OAuth2 can introduce security vulnerabilities, such as authorization code interception, token leakage, or improper redirect URI handling.
• Fragmentation
  The OAuth2 specification allows for a lot of flexibility, which can lead to fragmentation and inconsistent implementations across different providers.
• Token Management
  OAuth2 requires careful management of tokens, including their expiration, revocation, and storage, which can add complexity to application development.

Analysis of JSON Web Token

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

More videos:

Understanding How OAuth2 Works