PingOne Platform APIs

Client Authentication Methods

This comprehensive collection demonstrates all major OAuth 2.0 and OpenID Connect client authentication methods supported by PingOne. This is an educational resource for understanding when and how to use each authentication approach.

Authentication methods comparison

Method Security Level Use Case Client Type Notes

CLIENT_SECRET_BASIC

Medium

Traditional server-side apps

Confidential

  • Standard HTTP Basic Authentication

  • Secret in Authorization header

CLIENT_SECRET_POST

Medium

Server-side apps, legacy systems

Confidential

  • Client credentials sent in POST body

  • Easier to process for some frameworks

CLIENT_SECRET_JWT

High

Modern server apps requiring enhanced security

Confidential

  • JWT signed with client secret

  • Provides non-repudiation

PRIVATE_KEY_JWT

Very High

Enterprise apps with PKI infrastructure

Confidential

  • JWT signed with private key

  • Highest security, no shared secrets

NONE

Low

Public clients (SPAs, mobile apps)

Public

  • No authentication

  • Must use PKCE for security

When to use each method

CLIENT_SECRET_BASIC (Most Common)

  • Best for: Traditional web applications, backend services

  • Pros: Industry standard, widely supported, simple to implement

  • Cons: Credentials in header (base64 encoded, not encrypted)

  • Example: Node.js backend, Java Spring applications

CLIENT_SECRET_POST

  • Best for: Applications where header manipulation is difficult

  • Pros: Easier for some frameworks, credentials in body

  • Cons: Less standard than Basic auth

  • Example: Legacy systems, certain API gateways

CLIENT_SECRET_JWT

  • Best For: Applications requiring enhanced security and audit trails

  • Pros: Non-repudiation, tamperproof, includes expiration

  • Cons: More complex implementation, requires JWT library

  • Example: Financial applications, healthcare systems

PRIVATE_KEY_JWT

  • Best for: Enterprise applications with PKI infrastructure

  • Pros: Highest security, no shared secrets, certificate-based

  • Cons: Complex setup, certificate management overhead

  • Example: Banking applications, government systems

NONE (Public Clients)

  • Best for: Single page applications (SPAs), mobile apps, native apps

  • Pros: No secret management needed

  • Cons: Must use PKCE, limited to certain grant types

  • Example: React/Angular SPAs, iOS/Android apps

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