What is Token-Based Authentication?

Token-based authentication is a method that enables users to verify their identity and receive a unique access token in return. While the token is valid, users can access the designated website or app without re-entering their credentials each time they return to the same webpage, app, or resource protected by that token.

These authentication tokens function like a stamped ticket, granting the user access as long as the token is active. If the user logs out or closes the app, the token is invalidated.

Unlike traditional password-based or server-based authentication methods, token-based authentication provides an additional layer of security. Administrators gain detailed control over each action and transaction.

However, implementing tokens requires some coding skills. Most developers can learn the techniques quickly, but there is an initial learning curve.

Let’s explore further to help you determine if token-based authentication is suitable for you and your organization.

A History of Authentication Tokens

Authentication and authorization are related but distinct concepts. Before the advent of authentication tokens, we relied on passwords and servers to ensure that the right individuals had access to the right resources at the right times. This approach was not always effective.

Consider how passwords typically work:

• User generation: A person creates a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols.
• Memory: The person must remember this unique combination.
• Repetition: The password must be entered each time access is needed.

Password theft has been an issue for a long time, with one of the earliest documented cases occurring in 1962. Since remembering multiple passwords is challenging, people often resort to insecure practices such as:

• Writing them down: Loose pieces of paper with passwords pose significant security risks.
• Reusing them: Using the same password for multiple accounts means that if one is compromised, many others may be as well.
• Slightly modifying them: Changing just one letter or number when prompted to update a password.

Additionally, passwords require server authentication. Each login creates a record, increasing the server’s memory load.

Token authentication, on the other hand, works differently.

With token authentication, a secondary service verifies a server request. Once verification is complete, the server issues a token and responds to the request.

Although the user may still need to remember one password, the token provides another form of access that is much harder to steal or compromise. Moreover, the session’s record does not occupy space on the server.

Types of Authentication Token

All authentication tokens provide access, but each type functions differently.

Here are three common types of authentication tokens:

1. Connected: These include keys, discs, drives, and other physical items that plug into the system for access. Using a USB device or smartcard to log into a system is an example of a connected token.
2. Contactless: These devices communicate with the server when they are close enough but do not need to plug in. An example is Microsoft’s “magic ring.”
3. Disconnected: These devices can communicate with the server over long distances without physical contact with another device. Using your phone for a two-factor authentication process is an example of a disconnected token.

In all these scenarios, the user must initiate the process, typically by entering a password or answering a question. However, even with these preliminary steps completed correctly, access cannot be granted without the corresponding access token.

How token-based authentication works

Using a token-based authentication system, visitors verify their credentials only once. They then receive a token that grants access for a defined period.

Here’s how the process works:

1. Request: The user requests access to a server or protected resource, which may involve logging in with a password or another specified method.
2. Verification: The server checks that the user should have access, such as by verifying the password with the username or through another specified process.
3. Tokens: The server communicates with the authentication device (e.g., ring, key, phone). After verification, the server issues a token to the user.
4. Storage: The token is stored in the user’s browser while they continue to work.

If the user navigates to a different part of the server, the token communicates with the server to grant or deny access based on its validity.

Administrators control token limits. They can issue single-use tokens that are destroyed upon logout or set tokens to expire after a specific time period.

JSON Web Token (JWT): A Special Form of Auth Token

With the increasing number of users accessing systems through mobile phones (apps) and web apps, developers need a secure authentication method suitable for these platforms.

To address this need, many developers use JSON Web Tokens (JWTs) for token-based authentication in their applications.

A JSON Web Token (JWT) is an open standard that enables safe and secure communication between two parties. Data within a JWT is verified with a digital signature, and encryption ensures its security when transmitted via HTTP.

JWTs consist of three key components:

1. Header: Specifies the token type and the signing algorithm.
2. Payload: Contains information about the token issuer, token expiration, and other relevant data.
3. Signature: Ensures the message hasn’t been altered during transit with a secure signature.

These components are combined through coding, resulting in a final product that looks something like this.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Token-based Authentication

Advantages of token-based authentication

Enterprises using tokens for authentication to secure their resources enjoy several significant benefits:

• Improved resource security: Token-based authentication can either replace or complement password-based systems, which are highly vulnerable on their own. Tokens provide a much more secure method for user authentication because they are self-contained and only verifiable by the server that created them.
• Granular control: Token authorization is flexible and adjustable. Administrators can quickly deploy tokens across all applications, databases, websites, and servers while maintaining complete control over token expiration and other contextual details.
• Enhanced authentication experience: Tokens offer a better experience for both users and administrators when provisioning and accessing resources. They are easy to generate and scale, typically without needing additional hardware or complex configurations. Tokens also streamline and add convenience to the authentication process, as users maintain access to their resources until the token expires.

Disadvantages of token-based authentication

While there are many advantages to implementing tokens, organizations should consider these potential downsides before adoption:

1. Introduces risk: If poorly managed or improperly configured, token-based authentication can lead to extensive data and application breaches. The convenience of tokens lies in needing only one key for access to a system or multiple systems. In single sign-on (SSO) authentication, for instance, if the single key is compromised, all resources under that umbrella become vulnerable.
2. Requires constant revalidation: Token-based authentication is not ideal for long-term access. Regardless of the protocol or type used, all tokens have expiration dates. Therefore, administrators must continuously manage token life cycles and renew credentials as needed.

Why Should You Try Authorization Tokens?

You’ve assessed your current strategy and believe it’s functioning well. So, why should you integrate authorization tokens into your systems? Developers who make the switch can reap significant benefits.

Authorization tokens are particularly advantageous for administrators of systems that:

• Often grant temporary access: If your user base fluctuates based on dates, times, or special events, repeatedly granting and rescinding access can be draining. Tokens streamline this process. For example, administrators of university library sites might find a token approach beneficial.
• Require granular access: If your server grants access based on specific document properties rather than user properties, tokens provide the necessary fine-tuned control that passwords do not. For instance, if you run an online journal and want users to read and comment on a single document without accessing others, tokens can facilitate this.
• Are prime hacking targets: If your server contains sensitive documents that could severely damage your company if released, simple passwords aren’t enough protection. Tokens, especially when paired with hardware, offer significantly better security.

There are many more use cases for authentication tokens. This quick overview should spark ideas, and the more you consider the benefits, the more inclined you might be to adopt this approach.

Follow Authentication Token Best Practices

Authentication tokens are designed to enhance your security protocols and safeguard your server. However, they will only be effective if your processes are built with security in mind.

Your authentication tokens should be:

• Private: Users must not share token authentication devices or pass them around between departments. Just as they wouldn’t share passwords, they shouldn’t share any other parts of your security system.
• Secure: Communication between the token and your server must be secure via HTTPS connections. Encryption is essential to keeping tokens safe.
• Tested: Conduct periodic tests to ensure your system is secure and functioning properly. Address any issues promptly.
• Appropriate: Choose the right token type for your specific use case. For instance, JWTs are not ideal for session tokens due to their cost and the inherent security risks of interception. Always select the right tool for the job.

Don’t take your decision on authentication tokens lightly. Do your research, consult with peers, and ensure you’re making the best choice for your company.

FAQ’s

What are authentication tokens, and how do they work?

Authentication tokens are a method for users to verify their identity and receive a unique access token in return, enabling access to designated websites or apps without re-entering credentials. These tokens function like stamped tickets, granting access as long as they remain valid. Once a user logs out or closes the app, the token becomes invalid.

How do authentication tokens differ from traditional authentication methods?

Unlike traditional password-based or server-based authentication, authentication tokens provide an additional layer of security. They offer administrators detailed control over each action and transaction, enhancing resource security and providing a better authentication experience for users.

What are the benefits of token-based authentication?

Token-based authentication offers improved resource security, granular control over access, and an enhanced authentication experience. Tokens are self-contained and provide a secure method for user authentication. They are also flexible and adjustable, allowing administrators to deploy them quickly across various applications and servers.

What are some potential downsides of token-based authentication?

Token-based authentication introduces risks if not properly managed, potentially leading to data breaches. Additionally, tokens require constant revalidation as they have expiration dates. Organizations must continuously manage token life cycles to ensure security.

Why should organizations consider implementing authorization tokens?

Authorization tokens are particularly advantageous for organizations that often grant temporary access, require granular access control, or are prime hacking targets. Tokens streamline access management processes and offer better security compared to traditional authentication methods like passwords.

What best practices should organizations follow when implementing authentication tokens?

Organizations should ensure that authentication tokens are private, secure, regularly tested, and appropriate for their specific use case. Users should not share token authentication devices, and communication between tokens and servers must be secure. Additionally, organizations should choose the right token type for their needs and conduct periodic tests to address any security issues promptly.

Conclusion

Authentication tokens offer a secure and efficient method for verifying user identity and managing access to resources. Despite potential challenges like constant revalidation, the benefits of token-based authentication outweigh the drawbacks. By implementing best practices, such as ensuring token privacy and selecting the right token type, organizations can enhance their security protocols and protect their systems effectively.