Session-based and token-based authentication are two popular approaches to manage user authentication in web applications. Each has its advantages and use cases. How and when to use them? let's dive deep into it with this article.

Session-based Auth:

In session-based authentication, a server generates a unique session identifier (usually a session ID) for each user upon successful login. This session ID is then stored on the server, and a corresponding session cookie is sent to the client's browser. The client includes this session cookie in subsequent requests, allowing the server to identify and authenticate the user.

• How it works:

  • User credentials are validated on the server.

  • A unique session ID is generated and stored on the server side (often in a database).

  • The session ID is sent to the client, usually as a cookie.

  • The client includes the session ID in subsequent requests to identify the user.

• Best suited for:

  • Server-side rendered web applications with traditional architectures.

  • Applications with primarily server-side logic and stateful interactions.

Token based Auth:

Token-based authentication involves the generation and exchange of tokens between the client and server. Upon successful login, the server generates a token (JWT or other token types), signs it, and sends it to the client. The client stores the token (usually in local storage or a cookie) and includes it in the header of subsequent requests. The server verifies the token to authenticate the user.

Token-Based Authentication:

• How it works:

  • User credentials are validated on the server.

  • A unique token (often a JSON Web Token or JWT) is generated and sent to the client.

  • The client stores the token locally (e.g., in local storage or cookies).

  • The client includes the token in the header of subsequent requests to authenticate.

  • The server validates the token on each request.

• Best suited for:

  • Modern web applications with API-driven architectures.

  • Single Page Applications (SPAs) and mobile apps.

  • Microservices and distributed systems.

  • Applications requiring cross-domain authentication.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific application requirements and priorities. Happy coding devs :)