Authentication in Django Rest Framework: Token vs JWT

Authentication is a critical part of any API. Django Rest Framework (DRF) offers multiple ways to handle it. Two popular methods are Token Authentication and JWT (JSON Web Token) Authentication.

In this article, we'll explore both methods. We'll compare their features, use cases, and implementation. By the end, you'll know which one suits your project best.

What is Token Authentication?

Token Authentication is a simple way to authenticate users. It uses a unique token for each user. This token is generated when the user logs in.

The token is then sent with every request. The server checks the token to verify the user. If the token is valid, the request is processed.

Here's how to set up Token Authentication in DRF:

# settings.py
REST_FRAMEWORK = {
    'DEFAULT_AUTHENTICATION_CLASSES': [
        'rest_framework.authentication.TokenAuthentication',
    ],
}

To generate a token for a user, use the Token.objects.create(user=user) method. This token is stored in the database.

What is JWT Authentication?

JWT Authentication is a more modern approach. It uses JSON Web Tokens to authenticate users. These tokens are self-contained and include user information.

JWTs are signed, not encrypted. This means they can be verified but not tampered with. They are often used in stateless applications.

Here's how to set up JWT Authentication in DRF:

# settings.py
REST_FRAMEWORK = {
    'DEFAULT_AUTHENTICATION_CLASSES': [
        'rest_framework_simplejwt.authentication.JWTAuthentication',
    ],
}

To generate a JWT, use the RefreshToken.for_user(user) method. This token is not stored in the database.

Token vs JWT: Key Differences

Both methods have their pros and cons. Here's a quick comparison:

Token Authentication is simple and easy to implement. It stores tokens in the database, making it easy to revoke them. However, it can be slower for large-scale applications.

JWT Authentication is more scalable. It doesn't store tokens in the database, making it faster. However, revoking tokens is more complex.

For more details on DRF, check out our guide on Django Rest Framework ViewSets and Routers.

When to Use Token Authentication?

Token Authentication is ideal for small to medium-sized applications. It's easy to set up and manage. If you need to revoke tokens often, this is the best choice.

For example, in a blog API, Token Authentication works well. It ensures that only authorized users can create or edit posts.

When to Use JWT Authentication?

JWT Authentication is better for large-scale applications. It's faster and more scalable. If you need stateless authentication, JWT is the way to go.

For example, in a social media API, JWT Authentication is ideal. It handles millions of users efficiently without storing tokens in the database.

Learn more about DRF in our article on Django Rest Framework Serializers and ModelSerializer.

Example Code: Token Authentication

Here's an example of how to implement Token Authentication in DRF:

# views.py
from rest_framework.authtoken.views import ObtainAuthToken
from rest_framework.authtoken.models import Token
from rest_framework.response import Response

class CustomAuthToken(ObtainAuthToken):
    def post(self, request, *args, **kwargs):
        serializer = self.serializer_class(data=request.data,
                                           context={'request': request})
        serializer.is_valid(raise_exception=True)
        user = serializer.validated_data['user']
        token, created = Token.objects.get_or_create(user=user)
        return Response({
            'token': token.key,
            'user_id': user.pk,
            'email': user.email
        })

This code creates a custom token view. It returns the token and user details upon successful login.

Example Code: JWT Authentication

Here's an example of how to implement JWT Authentication in DRF:

# views.py
from rest_framework_simplejwt.views import TokenObtainPairView
from rest_framework_simplejwt.serializers import TokenObtainPairSerializer

class CustomTokenObtainPairSerializer(TokenObtainPairSerializer):
    @classmethod
    def get_token(cls, user):
        token = super().get_token(user)
        token['email'] = user.email
        return token

class CustomTokenObtainPairView(TokenObtainPairView):
    serializer_class = CustomTokenObtainPairSerializer

This code creates a custom JWT view. It adds the user's email to the token payload.

Conclusion

Both Token and JWT Authentication have their strengths. Token Authentication is simple and easy to manage. JWT Authentication is scalable and efficient.

Choose Token Authentication for smaller projects. Use JWT Authentication for larger, stateless applications. Both methods ensure secure API development.

For more tips on DRF, check out our guide on Setting Up Your First API with Django Rest Framework.