Token-Based Authentication in a Web Application

In a web application, there are parts that require authentication, such as a dashboard. This can be achieved using token-based authentication. JSON Web Tokens are used to create a front-end authentication solution with Vue Router, Vuex, and Axios.

Token-based authentication works by having the user log in on the client side, sending the information to the server. The server authenticates the user and returns a token. This token is stored on the front-end, usually in the browser's local storage. When making API calls for private data, the token is sent along with the request. The server decrypts the token and verifies the user's credentials before returning the private data.

JSON web tokens consist of three parts: the header, containing the type and hashing algorithm; the payload, containing user information and other options; and the signature, which is a hash of the header, payload, and a secret on the server. JWTs are used throughout the course to authenticate users in the app and access protected routes.

The app being built in the course allows users to register, log in, and access a dashboard. The JWT token is stored in local storage, and the token is used to access protected routes and make API calls for private resources. Logging out clears the token, and logging back in generates a new token. The course also covers handling authentication errors and focuses on front-end authentication, compatible with various backend solutions.

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