OAuth2 Protocol Overview
Learn the core concepts of OAuth2, its different roles (client, resource owner, authorization server), and its purpose.
What is OAuth2?
Welcome to OAuth2! It's a widely used open standard for delegated authorization. This means it allows an application to access resources on behalf of a user without needing their actual credentials.
Think of it as giving a valet key to a parking attendant, instead of your master key. They can park your car, but can't open your house.
Authorization, Not Authentication
This is a crucial distinction! OAuth2 is primarily about authorization, not authentication.
- Authentication: Verifying who you are (e.g., logging in with username/password).
- Authorization: What you are allowed to do (e.g., access your photos).
OAuth2 helps you grant permission for an app to do things on your behalf, without telling the app who you are.
All lessons in this course
- OAuth2 Protocol Overview
- OpenID Connect Introduction
- Common OAuth2 Grant Types
- PKCE and Securing Public Clients