What is OAuth?
Open Authorization
TL;DR
OAuth is the technology that lets you log into websites using your Google, Facebook, or other existing accounts instead of creating new passwords.
Example
You've seen OAuth: "Sign in with Google" "Continue with Facebook" "Login with Apple"
How OAuth works (simplified):
- You click "Sign in with Google" on a website
- You're redirected to Google's login page
- Google asks: "Allow this website to see your name and email?"
- You approve
- Google tells the website: "This person is verified, here's their info"
- You're logged in without sharing your password
What's shared:
- Usually: Name, email, profile picture
- Sometimes: Additional info you approve
- Never: Your Google/Facebook password
Why it's called OAuth: OAuth = Open Authorization It's a standard protocol that many companies use.
Explanation
OAuth Benefits
For users:
- No new passwords to remember
- Faster signup/login process
- Trusted companies handle authentication
- Can revoke access anytime
For businesses:
- Higher conversion (easier signup)
- No password storage responsibility
- Verified email addresses
- Access to basic user info
OAuth vs. OpenID Connect
OAuth: Grants access to resources "Can this app post to my Twitter?"
OpenID Connect: Verifies identity (built on OAuth) "Is this really John Smith?"
Most "Login with..." buttons use OpenID Connect.
Security Considerations
OAuth is secure when implemented correctly:
- Always use HTTPS
- Validate tokens on your server
- Request only necessary permissions
- Allow users to revoke access
Why It Matters
For Business Owners
OAuth increases signup rates. Users are more likely to sign up when they don't need to create another password. Some studies show 20-50% higher conversion.
OAuth shifts security responsibility. Google, Apple, and Microsoft have world-class security teams. When you use their login, they handle password security.
OAuth provides verified emails. When someone logs in with Google, you know their email is real. No fake signups with disposable emails.
OAuth enables integrations. Beyond login, OAuth lets your app access user data from other services (with permission). Connect to Google Calendar, Dropbox, etc.
Implementation Tips
- Offer multiple OAuth providers (Google, Apple, Microsoft)
- Always keep traditional email/password as backup
- Be transparent about what data you access
- Make it easy for users to disconnect accounts
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