genesys cloud pkce example

Daniel Parker

3 min read

·

25-02-2025

1

0

Share

Genesys Cloud utilizes the OAuth 2.0 authorization framework to secure access to its APIs. A crucial part of this framework, especially for client-side applications (like those running in a web browser), is the Proof Key for Code Exchange (PKCE) method. This article provides a clear example of how to implement PKCE for secure authorization with Genesys Cloud.

Understanding the Need for PKCE

Traditional authorization codes in OAuth 2.0 are vulnerable when used in client-side applications. An attacker could intercept the authorization code before the application receives it, gaining unauthorized access. PKCE mitigates this risk by adding a layer of security.

Instead of relying solely on a secret client ID, PKCE introduces a code verifier (a random string generated by the client) and a corresponding code challenge (a transformation of the code verifier). The client sends the code challenge to the Genesys Cloud authorization server. After the user authorizes the application, Genesys Cloud returns an authorization code. The client then uses the code verifier to prove its possession of the original code verifier during the token exchange, preventing attackers who only intercepted the authorization code from gaining access.

A Step-by-Step PKCE Example with Genesys Cloud

Let's walk through a simplified example using JavaScript. Remember that this is a conceptual example and requires adaptation to your specific application and Genesys Cloud configuration. You'll need your Genesys Cloud Client ID and Redirect URI.

1. Generate the Code Verifier and Challenge:

// Generate a random code verifier (e.g., using a library like `crypto-js`)
const verifier = generateCodeVerifier();

// Generate the code challenge (using SHA-256 encoding)
const challenge = generateCodeChallenge(verifier);

generateCodeVerifier() and generateCodeChallenge() are placeholder functions; you'll need to implement these using appropriate cryptographic libraries.

2. Construct the Authorization URL:

const authUrl = `https://login.mypurecloud.com/authorize?` +
  `response_type=code&` +
  `client_id=[YOUR_CLIENT_ID]&` +
  `redirect_uri=[YOUR_REDIRECT_URI]&` +
  `code_challenge=${encodeURIComponent(challenge)}&` +
  `code_challenge_method=S256`;  // Use S256 for SHA-256 encoding

Replace [YOUR_CLIENT_ID] and [YOUR_REDIRECT_URI] with your actual values.

3. Redirect the User to the Authorization URL:

This redirects the user to the Genesys Cloud login page. After successful authentication and authorization, Genesys Cloud redirects the user back to your redirect_uri with an authorization code.

window.location.href = authUrl;

4. Handle the Redirect and Extract the Authorization Code:

Once the user is redirected back to your application, extract the authorization code from the URL parameters (e.g., using URLSearchParams).

5. Exchange the Authorization Code for an Access Token:

Use the authorization code and the original code verifier to request an access token from Genesys Cloud's token endpoint:

const tokenUrl = 'https://login.mypurecloud.com/oauth/token';

fetch(tokenUrl, {
  method: 'POST',
  headers: {
    'Content-Type': 'application/x-www-form-urlencoded'
  },
  body: `grant_type=authorization_code&` +
    `code=[AUTHORIZATION_CODE]&` +
    `redirect_uri=[YOUR_REDIRECT_URI]&` +
    `client_id=[YOUR_CLIENT_ID]&` +
    `code_verifier=${verifier}`
})
.then(response => response.json())
.then(data => {
  // Handle the access token
  console.log(data.access_token);
})
.catch(error => {
  console.error('Error fetching access token:', error);
});

Replace placeholders with your actual values. The response will contain the access token, which you can use to access Genesys Cloud APIs.

Important Considerations

• Error Handling: Implement robust error handling to gracefully manage issues like network errors, invalid codes, and authorization failures.
• Security Best Practices: Store the code verifier securely on the client-side. Avoid embedding sensitive information directly in the client-side code.
• Library Usage: Consider using established OAuth 2.0 libraries for your chosen programming language to simplify implementation and improve security. These libraries often handle the cryptographic aspects and complexities of the flow.
• Genesys Cloud Documentation: Always refer to the official Genesys Cloud API documentation for the most up-to-date information and best practices.

This example provides a foundation for implementing PKCE with Genesys Cloud. Remember to adapt and extend it based on your application's specific needs and security requirements. Using a well-tested OAuth library is highly recommended for production environments.