Secure web services for version 5.x applications using signature authentication
WebSphere Application Server provides several different methods to secure the web services. XML digital signature is one of these methods.
Important: There is an important distinction between Version 5.x and Version 6 and later applications. The information supports Version 5.x applications only used with WAS v6.0.x and later. The information does not apply to Version 6 and later applications.
We can secure the web services using any of the following methods:
- XML digital signature
- XML encryption
- BasicAuth authentication
- Identity assertion authentication
- Signature authentication
- Pluggable token
With the signature authentication method, the request sender generates a signature security token using a callback handler. The security token returned by the callback handler is inserted in the SOAP message. The request receiver retrieves the Signature security token from the SOAP message and validates it using a Java Authentication and Authorization Service (JAAS) login module. To use signature authentication to secure Web services, complete the following tasks:
- Secure the client for signature authentication.
- Configure the client for signature authentication: specifying the method.
- Configure the client for signature authentication: collecting the authentication information.
- Secure the server for signature authentication.
Results
After completing these steps, you have secured the web services using signature authentication.
Related concepts
Secure web services Signature authentication method Security token
Related tasks
Configure the client for signature authentication: specifying the method Configure the client for signature authentication: collecting the authentication information Configure the server to support signature authentication Configure the server to validate signature authentication information