How do you handle user authentication in a Java full stack app?

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User authentication in a Java full stack app typically involves both backend and frontend coordination to securely verify and manage user identities. Here's a common approach:

Backend (Java - Spring Boot)

1. Authentication API: Create endpoints like /login, /register, and /logout using Spring Security.

2. Password Management: Store hashed passwords using BCrypt or Argon2 (never store plain-text passwords).

3. JWT (JSON Web Tokens):

   • On login, generate a JWT containing user info and roles.

   • Send the JWT to the client (usually in response body or headers).

   • On each protected request, the frontend sends the JWT in the Authorization header (Bearer <token>).

   • The backend validates the JWT and grants/denies access accordingly.

4. Session Management (alternative to JWT):

   • Use server-side sessions with cookies for smaller apps or internal systems.

Frontend (e.g., React, Angular)

1. Login Form: Collect credentials and call the backend /login API.

2. Token Storage:

   • Store JWT in HttpOnly cookies for better security, or localStorage/sessionStorage with caution.

3. Auth Guards: Use route guards to protect frontend routes based on user login state or roles.

4. Logout: Clear the token on logout and redirect the user.

Best Practices

• Use HTTPS to secure data in transit.

• Implement token expiration and refresh tokens.

• Protect sensitive routes using role-based access control.

• Validate all inputs to prevent injection attacks.

This approach ensures secure, scalable user authentication in a full stack Java app.

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