Tokens are digital representations of identity or access rights in non-human identity management systems.
Description
In the context of Non-Human Identity Management, tokens serve as vital mechanisms for granting and managing access to resources and services. These tokens can represent various forms of identity, such as API keys, OAuth tokens, or cryptographic tokens, and are essential for ensuring that non-human entities, such as applications, services, or devices, can authenticate and interact securely within a network. Unlike traditional human identities, which rely on usernames and passwords, tokens are typically short-lived and can be easily revoked or rotated, enhancing security. They help enforce identity verification without exposing sensitive credentials, allowing for a more streamlined and secure interaction between non-human entities and the systems they access. By utilizing tokens, organizations can implement granular access controls and monitor usage patterns, thereby mitigating risks associated with unauthorized access and ensuring compliance with security policies.
Examples
- API access tokens used by applications to authenticate with web services.
- JWT (JSON Web Tokens) used for secure information exchange between services.
Additional Information
- Tokens can be stateless or stateful, impacting how they store and validate information.
- They often come with expiration times to enhance security and limit potential misuse.