Enable Auto-Login with Credential Management in JavaScript

In today's fast-paced digital world, users demand speed and convenience, especially when it comes to logging into web applications. One way to enhance user experience is by enabling auto-login. With modern browsers supporting Credential Management API, it's easier for developers to implement seamless login experiences. In this guide, we'll explore how to utilize this API in JavaScript to enable auto-login.

What is Credential Management API?

The Credential Management API is a web API that provides developers the tools to manage and store user credentials. It allows web applications to request, store, and retrieve credentials, streamlining the login process. With this API, users can automatically sign into websites if previously authenticated.

Setting Up the Environment

Before diving into code, ensure your development environment supports the Credential Management API. The API is widely supported in modern versions of Chrome, Edge, and Firefox.

Enabling Auto-Login

Enabling auto-login involves three main steps: registration, storing credentials, and retrieving credentials.

Registering a User

When a user registers or logs into your site, you can store their credentials using the API.

if (navigator.credentials) {
  const credentials = new PasswordCredential({
    id: email.value,
    password: password.value,
    name: userName
  });

  navigator.credentials.store(credentials).then(() => {
    console.log('Credentials are stored successfully');
  }).catch(err => {
    console.error('Error storing credentials', err);
  });
}

In this code snippet, we are creating a new PasswordCredential object with the user’s email and password, then storing it with the navigator.credentials.store method.

Requesting Stored Credentials

Upon a user's return, the application can request stored credentials to log them in automatically.

if (navigator.credentials) {
  navigator.credentials.get({password: true, mediation: 'silent'}).then(credentials => {
    if (credentials) {
      console.log('Auto login with credentials', credentials);
      // Use the credentials to log the user in
      loginWithCredentials(credentials);
    }
  }).catch(err => {
    console.error('Could not retrieve credentials', err);
  });
}

Here, we use the navigator.credentials.get method to automatically fetch stored credentials. The mediation: 'silent' option attempts to retrieve credentials without requiring user interaction, promoting a seamless experience.

Logging in Using Retrieved Credentials

Implement your own method to handle login using the retrieved credentials. A simple example is shown below:

function loginWithCredentials(credentials) {
  fetch('/login', {
    method: 'POST',
    body: JSON.stringify({
      username: credentials.id,
      password: credentials.password
    }),
    headers: {
      'Content-Type': 'application/json'
    }
  }).then(response => {
    if (response.ok) {
      console.log('User logged in successfully');
    } else {
      console.error('Login failed');
    }
  }).catch(err => console.error('Login request failed', err));
}

This function sends the credentials via a POST request to our server for authentication.

Security Considerations

While auto-login enhances user experience, it is essential to secure stored credentials to protect user information. Always use HTTPS to encrypt data and ensure compliance with privacy regulations. Consider implementing two-factor authentication for additional security layers.

Conclusion

The Credential Management API provides a robust framework for simplifying user logins and enhancing overall user experience. By properly implementing this API, we can minimize friction and potentially increase user retention, as users enjoy the hassle-free experience of automatic logins. Remember always to prioritize security and privacy while handling user data.