Django REST framework JWT vs OAuth2: What are the differences?

Key differences between Django REST framework JWT and OAuth2

1. 1. Token Format: The main difference between Django REST framework JWT and OAuth2 lies in the token format used. Django REST framework JWT uses JSON Web Tokens (JWT) as the token format, which are self-contained and digitally signed tokens that can be easily verified. On the other hand, OAuth2 uses a combination of access tokens and refresh tokens. Access tokens are short-lived tokens used to access protected resources, whereas refresh tokens are used to obtain new access tokens without requiring the user to authenticate again.

2. 2. Token Storage: Another difference is the way tokens are stored. In Django REST framework JWT, the JWT tokens are typically stored on the client-side, usually in the browser's local storage or in cookies. This allows the client to send the token along with each request for authentication and authorization. In OAuth2, the tokens are usually stored on the server-side and associated with the user's session. The server then issues access tokens to the client for subsequent API calls.

3. 3. Authentication Flow: The authentication flow differs between Django REST framework JWT and OAuth2. With Django REST framework JWT, the client first sends a POST request to the server with valid credentials. If the credentials are valid, the server returns a JWT token which the client can use to authenticate subsequent requests. In OAuth2, the client redirects the user to the authorization server where they can authenticate and authorize the client to access their resources. Once authorized, the authorization server redirects the user back to the client with an access token.

4. 4. Scopes and Permissions: Django REST framework JWT and OAuth2 also differ in terms of scopes and permissions. With Django REST framework JWT, the permissions for accessing specific resources are typically defined at the level of the view or viewset. This allows for granular control over which users can access certain parts of the API. In OAuth2, scopes are used to define the level of access granted to the client. The authorization server defines the scopes, and the client can request specific scopes during the authorization process.

5. 5. Token Expiration and Renewal: The way tokens are expired and renewed also differs between Django REST framework JWT and OAuth2. In Django REST framework JWT, the tokens have a predefined expiration time. Once the token expires, the client needs to request a new token by reauthenticating. On the other hand, in OAuth2, access tokens have a shorter expiration time, and refresh tokens are used to obtain new access tokens without requiring the user to reauthenticate. This allows the client to have a longer-term authorization while keeping the access tokens short-lived for security purposes.

6. 6. User Management: The user management aspect differs between Django REST framework JWT and OAuth2. With Django REST framework JWT, the user management is typically handled within the Django framework itself. Users are created, authenticated, and authorized through the Django authentication system. In OAuth2, the user management is typically handled by the authorization server. The authorization server is responsible for authenticating and authorizing the user, and the client receives the necessary tokens for subsequent API calls.

In summary, the key differences between Django REST framework JWT and OAuth2 lie in the token format used, storage mechanism, authentication flow, scopes and permissions, token expiration and renewal process, and user management.