Authentication verifies identity; authorization controls access. Here's how to implement flexible, secure authorization in your applications.
RBAC Basics
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Database Schema
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Permission Checking Service
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Express Middleware
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ABAC (Attribute-Based)
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Role Hierarchy
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Frontend Integration
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Best Practices
DO:
✓ Deny by default
✓ Check permissions on both frontend and backend
✓ Cache permissions appropriately
✓ Log access attempts
✓ Use principle of least privilege
✓ Audit permission changes
DON'T:
✗ Trust client-side permission checks alone
✗ Hardcode permissions in code
✗ Give admin access by default
✗ Forget to invalidate cache on changes
Conclusion
Start with simple RBAC, evolve to ABAC if needed. Always enforce authorization on the server, cache permissions for performance, and audit access for security.
The best authorization system is one that's strict by default and flexible when needed.