JWT Tokens Explained: Authentication Made Simple
Understand JSON Web Tokens, how they work for authentication, and best practices.
Decode and validate JSON Web Tokens with signature verification
Paste a JWT token above to decode and validate it.
The header typically contains token type (JWT) and signing algorithm. Default values are usually sufficient.
Add claims (data) to the payload: user ID, username, roles, expiration time, or other custom claims as needed.
Enter your secret key for signing the token. Keep this secret secure - it's used to verify token authenticity.
Select signing algorithm: HS256 (HMAC), RS256 (RSA), or others. HS256 is common for symmetric keys, RS256 for asymmetric.
Click generate to create the JWT. The token will be displayed in encoded format.
Use the decoder to verify token contents, check expiration, or debug token issues.
Verify the token signature using your secret key to ensure the token hasn't been tampered with.
Include the JWT in API requests (usually in Authorization header) for authentication and authorization.
JWTs are used for authentication (proving identity) and authorization (determining permissions) in web applications and APIs.
JWTs are secure when properly implemented with strong secret keys, HTTPS, and appropriate expiration times. Never expose secret keys.
Include user ID, username, roles, and expiration time. Avoid sensitive data like passwords. Keep payloads small for performance.
Short-lived tokens (15 minutes to 1 hour) are more secure. Use refresh tokens for longer sessions. Adjust based on your security requirements.
Yes, JWTs can be decoded to view contents, but you need the secret key to verify the signature and ensure authenticity.
HS256 uses a shared secret key (symmetric). RS256 uses a private/public key pair (asymmetric). RS256 is better for distributed systems.
JWTs are stateless, so they can't be directly revoked. Use short expiration times, maintain a blacklist, or use refresh tokens for revocation.
Store JWTs securely: in httpOnly cookies (most secure), localStorage (less secure), or memory. Avoid XSS vulnerabilities.
Use short expiration times, implement token refresh, monitor for suspicious activity, and consider additional security measures like IP validation.
Yes, JWTs are commonly used for API authentication. Include the token in the Authorization header: "Bearer <token>".
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