Token
In plain terms
A digital credential proving identity or granting access.
Going deeper
A token is a string issued after authentication that a client presents to access resources without resending credentials. It carries proof of authorization.
Under the hood
Access and refresh tokens, often JWTs; short lifetimes and secure storage limit theft impact.
Examples
JWTs, OAuth access tokens, session tokens, API tokens, bearer tokens.
Think of it like...
Like a wristband at an event proving you've paid and can enter.