Section Introduction

The Evolution of Authentication and Authorization

The IT industry is undergoing a significant transformation in how online authentication and authorization are handled. Historically, usernames and passwords have been the cornerstone of user authentication. However, this method is increasingly seen as outdated due to security vulnerabilities and user inconvenience. As we stand on the brink of a new era, it's evident that the traditional username and password approach is being phased out in favor of more secure and user-friendly methods.

Emerging Alternatives

Several alternatives are being explored and implemented by leading tech companies. These alternatives aim to provide both enhanced security and ease of use. Some of the promising methods include:

Biometric Authentication: Utilizes unique physical characteristics, such as facial recognition, fingerprint scanning, or vein pattern recognition.
Hardware Tokens: Encrypted USB keys or devices that can be connected to computers or smartphones.
Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Combines something you know (password) with something you have (a code sent to your phone).
Random Number Generating Devices: Small gadgets that generate a random string of numbers for secure authorization, such as the Pinsentry device.
Big Tech Authentication: Leveraging existing accounts with major tech companies like Google or Facebook for single sign-on (SSO) capabilities.
Combination Approaches: Integrating multiple methods to provide a layered security approach.

Visual Example

Pinsentry Random Number Generating Device — This is a random number generating device (Pinsentry). It’s a compact device, similar to a calculator, that authenticates users by generating a random string of numbers. Users insert their bank card and enter their PIN, and the device produces a secure code for website authentication.

Trongate's Preparedness

Amidst these innovations, big tech authentication currently appears to be the most favored solution. This method allows developers to integrate a few lines of code and delegate authentication responsibilities to giants like Google or Facebook. While this approach is highly convenient, security is ever-evolving, and future shifts are inevitable.

Trongate is designed with this dynamic landscape in mind. The framework is built to be flexible and adaptable, ensuring that it can accommodate various authentication methods as they emerge. Trongate does not confine developers to a single approach; instead, it offers a range of tools to facilitate robust authorization and authentication.

Central to this toolkit is Trongate's token system, which can operate independently or in conjunction with other authentication systems. This chapter will delve into how Trongate implements token-based authentication and authorization, providing you with the knowledge to leverage these features effectively.