JWT Generator - HS256 Algorithm
Generate JWT tokens using the HS256 (HMAC with SHA-256) algorithm. This symmetric key algorithm uses the same secret for both signing and verification, making it ideal for server-to-server authentication where both parties can securely share a secret key.
Understanding HS256 JWT Signing
HS256 (HMAC with SHA-256) is one of the most widely used algorithms for signing JWTs. It's a symmetric algorithm, meaning the same secret key is used for both creating and verifying the signature. This makes it simpler to implement than asymmetric alternatives like RS256.
The algorithm works by combining the encoded header and payload with your secret key to produce a unique signature. Any modification to the header, payload, or use of a different secret will result in a different signature, allowing recipients to detect tampering.
When to Use HS256
- Server-to-server communication where secret sharing is feasible
- Single-server applications with no key distribution needs
- Microservices within the same trusted network
- Simpler implementation requirements
- When performance is critical (faster than RSA)
Security Best Practices
Always use a cryptographically strong secret key of at least 256 bits (32 bytes). Never hardcode secrets in source code or expose them in client-side applications. Rotate secrets periodically and use environment variables or secret management systems for storing keys in production.