access token

An access token is an authorization string that provides secure access to content, data, and functionality in ArcGIS location services. The format is either an API key or an OAuth 2.0 token. Access tokens define the scope and permissions available to your application, and their capabilities vary based on the type of authentication used to obtain them.

There are three types of authentication that can be used to obtain an access token:

• API key authentication: This creates a permanent token that grants your application access to location services and, with an ArcGIS developer account, private content.
• User authentication (formerly ArcGIS identity): This generates a short-lived token via OAuth 2.0, authorizing your application to access location services, content, and resources on behalf of a logged in ArcGIS user.
• App credential authentication: This generates a short-lived token via OAuth 2.0, authorizing your application to access ready-to-use services on your behalf.