OAuth
OAuth is an open authorization framework that enables applications to obtain limited access to user accounts on third-party services without exposing the user's password.
In Depth
OAuth is the standard for delegated authorization on the web. When you see 'Sign in with Google' or 'Connect your CRM,' OAuth is the protocol making it possible. It works by having the user authorize the requesting application through the service provider (like Google or Salesforce), which then issues an access token with specific permissions.
In customer support, OAuth enables AI agents to connect to business systems on behalf of the organization — accessing CRM data, reading helpdesk tickets, or managing communication channels — without storing sensitive credentials. OAuth tokens can be scoped (limiting what the application can access), time-limited (expiring after a set period), and revocable (access can be removed at any time). This security model is essential for enterprise AI deployments where data access must be carefully controlled and auditable.
Related Terms
SSO
SSO (Single Sign-On) is an authentication protocol that enables users to log in once and gain access to all connected applications without re-entering credentials.
Single Sign-On
Single Sign-On (SSO) is an authentication method that allows users to access multiple applications with one set of login credentials, eliminating the need for separate passwords.
Role-Based Access Control
Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) is a security model that restricts system access based on a user's role within the organization, granting permissions to perform only authorized actions.
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