What is JWT authentication and how does it enhance security?

What is JWT authentication and how does it enhance security?

JWT, or JSON Web Token, is a compact, URL-safe means of representing claims to be transferred between two parties. It enhances security by allowing the server to verify the token's authenticity without needing to store session information.

Can you explain how JWT works in a web application?

Sure! In a web application, when a user logs in, the server generates a JWT containing user information and signs it with a secret key. This token is then sent to the client, which stores it and includes it in the header of subsequent requests to authenticate the user.

What are the advantages of using JWT over traditional session-based authentication?

JWTs are stateless, meaning they don't require server-side storage, which can improve scalability. They also allow for cross-domain authentication and can carry more information than traditional session IDs.

Are there any security concerns I should be aware of when using JWT?

Yes, some concerns include token expiration, secure storage of the secret key, and ensuring the token is transmitted over HTTPS to prevent interception.