What’s OpenID Connect (OIDC) and Why Should You Care?

OpenID Connect (OIDC) serves as a modern authentication protocol that enhances OAuth 2.0 by adding an identity layer, thereby enabling applications to verify user identities without managing passwords directly. By leveraging trusted Identity Providers (IdPs) such as Google, Microsoft, or Okta, applications like SSOJet enable users to log in via familiar platforms, which simplifies and secures the authentication process. The OIDC login flow involves redirecting users to an IdP's login page, obtaining authorization, and exchanging codes for tokens that verify user identity and access rights. This standardized process ensures that developers do not need to create unique flows for different IdPs, making it easier to handle authentication across various platforms. The integration of OIDC into applications can be achieved through specific steps involving configuration, use of libraries, and token management, ensuring that user sessions are handled securely and efficiently.