JSON Web Token

Website

jwt.io

$ Details

Categories

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

OpenID Connect

Website

openid.net

$ Details

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Categories

#Web Security #Identity And Access Management #Cyber Security #Identity Provider

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.

OpenID Connect features and specs

• Improved User Experience
  OpenID Connect allows users to authenticate with a single sign-on (SSO) mechanism, reducing the need to remember multiple usernames and passwords. This results in a faster, smoother login experience for end-users.
• Standardization
  OpenID Connect is a standardized protocol that is widely adopted and supported across various platforms and services. This standardization simplifies integration and lowers implementation costs.
• Interoperability
  Because it is built on top of the OAuth 2.0 protocol, OpenID Connect is compatible with a wide range of existing systems. This makes it easier to integrate with other services that also support OAuth 2.0.
• Enhanced Security
  OpenID Connect includes features such as token encryption, signature, and verification, which add layers of security to the authentication process.
• Scalability
  OpenID Connect is designed to be scalable, allowing it to support both small and large applications with millions of users without degrading performance.
• Flexibility
  The protocol is flexible and extendable, making it possible to customize and expand its functionality to meet the specific needs of different applications and services.

Possible disadvantages of OpenID Connect

• Complexity
  The implementation of OpenID Connect can be complex due to its multiple components and configuration requirements, which may pose challenges for developers unfamiliar with the protocol.
• Dependency
  Relying on third-party identity providers (IdPs) can create dependencies, making your application vulnerable to their availability and performance issues.
• Privacy Concerns
  As OpenID Connect requires sharing user information with identity providers, it raises potential privacy issues. Users and businesses need to ensure that their data is handled according to privacy regulations and best practices.
• Cost
  There may be costs associated with using third-party identity providers, either through subscription fees or resource usage, which can add to the overall expenses of maintaining the system.
• Token Expiry Issues
  The management of token lifetimes (access tokens, refresh tokens, etc.) can be complicated, and improperly managing token expiry can lead to security vulnerabilities or user inconvenience.
• Potential for Misuse
  If not implemented correctly, the OpenID Connect protocol can be susceptible to certain security vulnerabilities, such as token hijacking or replay attacks.

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

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OAuth 2.0 & OpenID Connect (OIDC): Technical Overview

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