A JSON Web Token (JWT) that contains user identity information and is used in Single Sign-On (SSO) protocols.
Description
An ID Token is a crucial element in the Single Sign-On (SSO) protocol, primarily used in OpenID Connect. It is a JSON Web Token (JWT) that provides information about the user who has authenticated with an identity provider. The ID Token is sent to the client application after successful authentication, allowing the application to verify the user's identity without needing to re-enter credentials. This token typically contains claims such as the user's unique identifier, authentication time, and expiration time. The ID Token is digitally signed to ensure its integrity and authenticity. By using ID Tokens, applications can streamline user access across different services, enhancing user experience and security. For example, when a user logs into a website using their Google account, an ID Token is generated, providing the website with the necessary information to grant access without requiring separate login credentials. This mechanism significantly reduces friction for users and improves security management for organizations.
Examples
- When a user logs into a mobile app using their Facebook account, the app receives an ID Token containing user details.
- A corporate website using Azure Active Directory can authenticate users via ID Tokens when they sign in with their organizational accounts.
Additional Information
- ID Tokens are typically short-lived, expiring after a defined period to enhance security.
- They are widely used in modern web applications and APIs to facilitate secure and seamless user authentication.