OAuth Authorization Server Overview
An OAuth authorization server authenticates users and grants client applications permission to access protected resources on their behalf. SecureAuth includes a built-in authorization server in every workspace, supporting multiple OAuth and OIDC standards for secure API access and single sign-on.
What OAuth authorization server is
An OAuth authorization server lets users grant one app permission to access their data on another app, without sharing passwords. It handles user authentication and controls which apps can access what resources.
Example: A photo-sharing app asks you to upload photos from your Google Drive. Instead of giving the app your Google password, you authenticate to Google's OAuth server, which grants the photo app temporary permission to access only your photos. You maintain control, and your password stays secure.
Why you need an authorization server
Authorization servers provide these key benefits:
- Centralized control - Manage authentication and access in one place instead of across multiple apps.
- Granular permissions - Control which apps can access which resources and under what conditions.
- Scalability - Support multiple apps and users without adding security complexity.
- Reduced unauthorized access - Enforce consistent policies across all applications.
- User transparency - Users know exactly what they're approving and can revoke access anytime.