What are JSON Web Tokens and how do they enhance security?

What are JSON Web Tokens and how do they enhance security?

JSON Web Tokens (JWT) are a compact, URL-safe means of representing claims to be transferred between two parties. They enhance security by allowing you to verify the token's authenticity and integrity.

How do I implement JWT in my application?

To implement JWT, you typically need to create a token upon user authentication, sign it with a secret key, and then send it to the client. The client can then include this token in the Authorization header for subsequent requests.

What are the common security risks associated with JWT?

Common risks include token theft, replay attacks, and improper token expiration handling. It's crucial to use HTTPS and implement proper token management.

Can you explain how token expiration works?

Token expiration is managed through the 'exp' claim in the JWT. This claim specifies the expiration time, after which the token is no longer valid. It's important to set appropriate expiration times to balance security and usability.