Token expiration is essential for keeping APIs secure and efficient. Here's what you need to know:
- Access Tokens: Set short lifetimes to reduce risks if compromised. For sensitive environments, use shorter durations.
- Refresh Tokens: Allow longer lifetimes to maintain user sessions but secure them with encryption and rotation policies.
- Security Measures: Use token rotation, strict validation, and rate limiting to prevent misuse.
- Storage: Store tokens securely - server-side (encrypted databases), client-side (HTTP-only cookies), or mobile apps (secure enclaves).
- Monitoring: Track token creation, usage, refresh patterns, and expiration to detect anomalies and improve policies.
- Error Handling: Respond to expired tokens with clear error messages and automatic refresh mechanisms.
Balancing security and usability is key. Tools like Zuplo simplify token management with built-in features for authentication, rate limiting, and monitoring. This ensures APIs remain secure while providing a seamless user experience.
Token Lifetime Settings
Set token expiration times thoughtfully to balance security with user convenience.
Access Token Duration
Access tokens should have short lifetimes to minimize risks if compromised. For high-risk environments like financial services, opt for shorter durations. In less sensitive scenarios, slightly longer durations may be acceptable. Match token lifetimes with the specific risks and how the tokens are being used. After setting access token durations, it's important to evaluate refresh token practices to maintain consistent security.
Refresh Token Duration
Refresh tokens typically last longer to support session continuity. To ensure safety, combine them with secure storage methods and encryption.
Security vs. Usability
Finding the right balance between security and usability involves considering factors like risk levels, user behavior, network stability, and authentication complexity.
A flexible approach that adjusts token lifetimes based on factors such as user activity, device trust, location, time of access, and resource sensitivity can help.
Token Refresh Security
Effective token refresh strategies are key to maintaining security while ensuring smooth user access. A well-designed token refresh mechanism strikes a balance between protection and performance, guarding against attacks without disrupting the user experience.