Security
security
authentication
api
What is Bearer Token?
Definition
A bearer token is an access credential included in API requests via the Authorization header (Authorization: Bearer <token>). Any party that possesses ('bears') the token can use it — no additional proof of identity is required.
Why It Matters
Bearer tokens are the standard way to authenticate API requests in OAuth 2.0 and JWT-based systems. They are simple but must be protected — if stolen, they grant the attacker full access until they expire.