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adastra_app/docs/decisions/0005-jwt-authentication-localstorage.md
julien c8e2fba13e docs(adr): convert all ADRs to MADR 2.1.2 format
Rewrites all 12 frontend ADRs from a custom structure to the MADR 2.1.2
template required by the VS Code ADR Manager extension: bullet metadata
(Status/Date), standardised section headings, "Chosen option: X, because Y"
wording, and explicit Pros/Cons blocks per option.
2026-04-26 16:50:34 +02:00

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# Store JWT authentication token in localStorage
- Status: accepted
- Date: 2026-04-26
## Context and Problem Statement
The application requires persistent authentication across browser sessions. Where should the JWT token be stored client-side?
## Decision Drivers
- Application is internal — used by a known, controlled user base; not publicly accessible.
- Implementation simplicity.
- Compatibility with Angular functional guards and the APP_INITIALIZER auth bootstrap.
## Considered Options
- Store JWT in localStorage
- Store JWT in an httpOnly cookie
## Decision Outcome
Chosen option: "Store JWT in localStorage", because the application is internal with a controlled user base, making the XSS risk acceptable, and localStorage avoids the additional CSRF complexity of cookie-based auth.
### Positive Consequences
- Simple implementation — no server-side session management.
- Token persists across browser restarts without requiring re-login.
- Works seamlessly with Angular functional guards and `APP_INITIALIZER`.
### Negative Consequences
- Accessible to JavaScript — an XSS attack could exfiltrate the token.
- If the application ever becomes publicly accessible or handles sensitive data, this decision must be revisited.
## Pros and Cons of the Options
### Store JWT in localStorage
- Good, because simple to implement and operate.
- Good, because survives browser restarts.
- Bad, because XSS-vulnerable.
### Store JWT in an httpOnly cookie
- Good, because inaccessible to JavaScript — XSS-safe.
- Bad, because requires CSRF protection (SameSite cookie policy or CSRF tokens).
- Bad, because more complex server-side coordination.