A Redirect URI is a web address that a user is sent to after completing an authentication process in Single Sign-On (SSO).
Description
In the context of Single Sign-On Protocols, a Redirect URI (Uniform Resource Identifier) plays a vital role in the authentication flow. After a user initiates a login process through an identity provider (IdP), they are directed to the IdP's login page. Once they successfully authenticate, the IdP sends the user back to the application via the Redirect URI specified during the initial request. This URI is crucial for maintaining a seamless user experience, as it ensures that users return to the correct application or service they intended to access. Additionally, it can include query parameters that carry information about the authentication state or tokens needed for the application to validate the user's identity. Proper configuration of the Redirect URI is essential for security, as it helps prevent unauthorized access by ensuring that only pre-defined URIs can be used in the authentication flow.
Examples
- An e-commerce site like Amazon uses a Redirect URI to send users back to their shopping cart after logging in through a third-party service like Google.
- A productivity app like Trello redirects users to their dashboard after they have logged in using their Facebook credentials.
Additional Information
- Redirect URIs must be registered with the identity provider to prevent potential security risks.
- Common protocols that utilize Redirect URIs include OAuth 2.0 and OpenID Connect.