API Security Best Practices for 2026

Introduction

APIs are the backbone of modern applications, but they're also a prime target for attackers. This guide covers essential security practices for API development.

Authentication & Authorization

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Use OAuth 2.0 / OpenID Connect

Implement industry-standard authentication protocols.

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JWT Best Practices

• Use short expiration times
• Implement token refresh
• Store tokens securely

  Rate Limiting

  Protect against abuse with rate limiting:

  ``javascript

const rateLimit = require('express-rate-limit');

const limiter = rateLimit({ windowMs: 15 * 60 * 1000, // 15 minutes max: 100, // limit each IP to 100 requests per window });

app.use('/api/', limiter); `

Input Validation

Never trust client input:

`javascript const { z } = require('zod');

const userSchema = z.object({ email: z.string().email(), age: z.number().min(18).max(120), });

const validated = userSchema.parse(req.body); ``

Conclusion

API security requires a defense-in-depth approach. Implement multiple layers of protection and regularly audit your APIs for vulnerabilities.