What is JWT and how is it used in APIs?

What is JWT and how is it used in APIs?

JWT stands for JSON Web Token. It's a compact, URL-safe means of representing claims to be transferred between two parties. In APIs, JWTs are commonly used for authentication and information exchange.

Can you explain how JWT authentication works?

Sure! In JWT authentication, the user logs in with their credentials, and the server generates a JWT that encodes the user's information. This token is then sent back to the client, which includes it in the header of subsequent requests to access protected resources.

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

JWTs are stateless, meaning they don't require server-side storage, which makes them scalable. They also allow for cross-domain authentication and can carry more information than traditional sessions.

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

Yes, some concerns include token expiration, secure storage of tokens, and ensuring that sensitive information is not included in the token payload. Always use HTTPS to protect tokens in transit.