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Concepts

Lnav JWT-Based Authentication

Andrios Robert

• 1 min read

What is Lnav JWT-Based Authentication?
Lnav, the powerful log file navigator, can be secured using JSON Web Tokens (JWTs). JWTs are self-contained credentials that prove the identity of a client without repeated password prompts. They carry verified claims, signed with a secret or private key. Lnav uses these tokens to authenticate and authorize sessions without exposing raw credentials to logs, configs, or network traces.

Why Use JWTs with Lnav?

  • Stateless security: No session data stored on the server. The token itself is all that’s required.
  • Fast verification: Digital signatures enable quick, tamper-proof checks.
  • Granular control: Embed specific permissions and expiration times directly inside the token payload.
  • Reduced attack surface: No long-lived cookies or plain-text passwords in transit.

Implementing JWT Authentication in Lnav

  1. Generate a token: Use a library like jsonwebtoken or jwt-go to create tokens including iss (issuer), sub (subject), and exp (expiry) claims.
  2. Sign the token: Apply your private key or HMAC secret.
  3. Configure Lnav: Update your Lnav authentication settings to accept JWTs. Provide the public key or secret used for verification.
  4. Pass the token: Supply the JWT as part of the connection string, CLI arguments, or environment variables—depending on your integration.
  5. Verify and enforce rules: Lnav checks the signature, validates claims, and enforces role-based access before granting log file access.

Best Practices for Secure Lnav JWT Integration

  • Short expiration times: Limit tokens to minutes or hours.
  • Key rotation: Replace signing keys on a schedule.
  • Minimal claims: Include only data necessary for authentication.
  • TLS everywhere: Protect token transmission from interception.
  • Audit logs: Maintain records of successful and failed auth attempts.

Lnav JWT-based authentication offers speed, precision, and safety for log access. With proper design, it can secure operational data without heavy infrastructure.

Start now—connect your Lnav instance to JWT-based authentication in minutes. Visit hoop.dev and see it live before your next deploy.