Best Practices for Managing Bearer Tokens in Thunder Client
Tags: api, token, bearer
Published: 2024-02-02 09:42:29

## Understanding Bearer Tokens and OAuth 2.0 in Thunder Client

Thunder Client serves as a lightweight yet powerful REST and **[GraphQL](https://apidog.com/blog/what-is-graphql/)** API client that simplifies the process of testing and debugging APIs. Key highlights about Thunder Client include:

-   It is an open-source tool available as a browser extension or desktop application, providing flexibility in testing APIs.
-   The intuitive GUI facilitates easy request composition, response inspection, code snippet generation, and more, eliminating the need for manual code creation.
-   Features like environment and global variables, seamless import of requests from Postman, authentication support, and other functionalities enhance the overall user experience.

The primary purpose of setting a Bearer Token for requests within Thunder Client is for authentication purposes. Many web APIs rely on OAuth 2.0 Bearer tokens for authentication and authorization.

By configuring Thunder Client to automatically include the Bearer token obtained from an identity provider in the Authorization header of each request, users can seamlessly access authorized resources without the hassle of repeatedly managing the token manually.

## Simplifying OAuth 2.0 Integration in Thunder Client

Thunder Client offers a user-friendly interface that caters to users of all skill levels, including beginners. By following the intuitive steps within the interface and referencing API documentation, generating an OAuth 2.0 token becomes a streamlined process.

![img](https://assets.apidog.com/blog/2023/12/image-15.png)

The token generation journey within Thunder Client involves inputting essential details into the designated fields, enabling users to swiftly obtain the required token for authentication in API interactions. This user-centric design approach ensures a hassle-free experience for developers, regardless of their expertise level.

To streamline the token generation process further, Thunder Client simplifies the access code retrieval from the auth server by utilizing the provided callback URL. Users can leverage default URLs like `https://www.thunderclient.com/oauth/callback` or `http://localhost:6789/callback` for this purpose. Additionally, the Callback URL needs to be included in the OAuth server's authorized callback list.

For detailed instructions on OAuth 2.0 token generation within Thunder Client, refer to the documentation [here](https://github.com/rangav/thunder-client-support#auth).

## Automatic Refresh of Tokens

Thunder Client ensures that OAuth 2 tokens refresh automatically at the request, folder, and collection levels. These token values are stored locally rather than in JSON files, enhancing security.

Users also have the option to save tokens per environment by enabling the VS Code setting "Save Token Per Environment." In case of any token-related issues, simply click the "Generate Token" button to trigger the refresh process and resolve any authentication concerns efficiently.

By leveraging Thunder Client's seamless integration of **[Bearer Tokens](https://apidog.com/articles/what-is-bearer-token/)** and OAuth 2.0, developers can enhance API security measures and streamline authentication processes within their projects effectively.