How do I implement a token-based authentication system?

How do I implement a token-based authentication system?

To implement a token-based authentication system, you can follow these steps: 1. Choose a token format (like JWT). 2. Create a login endpoint to authenticate users. 3. Generate a token upon successful login. 4. Send the token to the client. 5. Secure your API endpoints by requiring the token.

What is JWT and why should I use it?

JWT, or JSON Web Token, is a compact, URL-safe means of representing claims to be transferred between two parties. It's widely used for authentication because it allows you to verify the token's authenticity and integrity without needing to store session data on the server.

How do I secure my API endpoints with tokens?

To secure your API endpoints, you can use middleware to check for the presence of a valid token in the request headers. If the token is missing or invalid, return a 401 Unauthorized response.

Can I use tokens for user roles and permissions?

Yes, you can include user roles and permissions in the token's payload. This way, you can easily manage access control based on the user's role.