Modern Authentication in React Applications

Authentication is a critical aspect of web applications. Let's explore modern approaches to implementing secure auth in React.

Authentication Strategies

1. JWT (JSON Web Tokens)

JWTs are widely used for stateless authentication:

// Store JWT securely
const login = async (credentials) => {
  const response = await api.post('/auth/login', credentials);
  const { accessToken, refreshToken } = response.data;
  
  // Store in httpOnly cookies (recommended) or secure storage
  localStorage.setItem('accessToken', accessToken);
};

2. OAuth 2.0 / OpenID Connect

For social logins and enterprise SSO:

Security Best Practices

React Auth Context

Create a robust auth context:

const AuthContext = createContext(null);

export const AuthProvider = ({ children }) => {
  const [user, setUser] = useState(null);
  const [loading, setLoading] = useState(true);

  useEffect(() => {
    checkAuth().then(setUser).finally(() => setLoading(false));
  }, []);

  return (
    <AuthContext.Provider value={{ user, login, logout, loading }}>
      {children}
    </AuthContext.Provider>
  );
};

Conclusion

Security should never be an afterthought. Implement authentication properly from the start.