API Authorization Methods

It is distinct from authentication, which verifies the identity of the user or application. Once authenticated, authorization ensures they only access what they’re allowed to.

1. OAuth and OAuth2: OAuth 2.0 is a common protocol for API authorization, where an application can request limited access to user resources on behalf of the user by using "access tokens." These tokens define the scope and duration of access and allow the API to verify if the request meets authorization requirements.
2. Role-Based Access Control (RBAC): This approach assigns permissions based on the user’s role, such as “admin,” “editor,” or “viewer.” Each role has specific permissions, ensuring only those with the proper role can access specific API endpoints or data.
3. Scopes: Often used with OAuth 2.0, scopes define an application's actions. For instance, a “read-only” scope allows data retrieval but not modification. Scopes provide granular control, allowing access to only necessary features or resources.
4. API Keys: API keys are unique identifiers given to applications or users, granting access to the API. Though straightforward, they should be combined with other authorization methods (e.g., OAuth or role-based restrictions) to strengthen security.
5. Policy-Based Access Control: With this approach, rules and policies define access permissions based on attributes, such as user properties, time of access, or resource sensitivity. Policies add flexibility for specific conditions beyond role or scope limitations.
6. JSON Web Tokens (JWT): JWTs are secure, self-contained tokens often used in API authorization to pass user information and permissions between the client and server. JWTs allow the server to verify that requests meet authorization requirements without consulting the database repeatedly.

By integrating these methods, APIs can enforce robust authorization to protect sensitive data, limit access, and ensure that only authorized users or applications can perform specific operations.

You can check how we handle authentication in Crystallize here.