What are the differences between OAuth 2.0 and other authentication methods?

What are the differences between OAuth 2.0 and other authentication methods?

OAuth 2.0 is an authorization framework that allows third-party services to exchange information without sharing credentials. Unlike basic authentication, which requires a username and password, OAuth 2.0 uses tokens for secure access.

Can you explain how OAuth 2.0 improves security compared to basic authentication?

Certainly! OAuth 2.0 enhances security by using access tokens that can be limited in scope and duration, reducing the risk of credential exposure. Basic authentication sends credentials with every request, making it more vulnerable.

What are some common use cases for OAuth 2.0?

Common use cases include allowing users to log in to applications using their social media accounts, granting third-party apps access to user data without sharing passwords, and enabling secure API access.

Are there any drawbacks to using OAuth 2.0?

Yes, some drawbacks include the complexity of implementation, potential for token theft if not managed properly, and the need for secure storage of tokens.