Every FastAPI application needs authentication, but the security landscape is confusing. OAuth 2.0 has multiple grant types. JWTs have access tokens, refresh tokens, and claims. API keys seem simple but hide complexity. When do you use each? How do you implement them without security holes?
This talk cuts through the confusion with battle-tested patterns from production systems. We'll implement each authentication method live, discussing not just the "how" but the "why" and "when."
JWTs Done Right: Token structure, signing algorithms, refresh token rotation, and the mistakes that get apps hacked. We'll build secure token handling with python-jose and FastAPI's dependency injection.
OAuth 2.0 for Real Applications: Authorization Code flow for web apps, PKCE for mobile and SPAs, and when to use Client Credentials for service-to-service auth. Practical integration patterns with real identity providers.
API Keys That Scale: Why hashing matters, implementing key rotation without downtime, scoping permissions, and rate limiting per key. Simple doesn't mean insecure.
Combining Methods: Many production apps need multiple auth strategies. We'll build middleware that gracefully handles JWT, OAuth, and API key authentication on the same endpoints.
You'll leave with a decision framework for choosing authentication methods, production-ready code patterns, and a security checklist to audit your existing FastAPI applications. Whether you're securing a public API, building internal services, or integrating with third-party platforms, these patterns will keep your users safe.