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Chapter 18: Setting Up a Members-Only, Password-Protected Web Site

Overview

The problem with JavaScript security is that it is neither secure nor part of JavaScript. Many solutions for creating a secure Web site using only HTML and JavaScript (that is, using no server-side languages or native programs) have circulated the Internet, but very few of them have actually accomplished what they set out to do.

Fortunately, there exists a very simple solution that uses only the basic JavaScript commands to create a very secure Web page or Web site. This chapter will show you that simple solution to the JavaScript security problem. It will also present many other possible solutions, so that you'll be completely aware of the issues associated with making a site secure.

What does security have to do with the Center Park School? In the context of the school, "security" means both ensuring only authorized persons have access, but also—once they log in to the site—presenting them with information that only they should see. In this context, "only they should see" is not meant to imply they are being unfairly blocked from full access, but rather that the information presented to them is customized to their specific interests (or in the case of a student, information pertaining to their specific curriculum). You will recall from Chapter 15 and the discussion of calendars, a key functionality requirement of the Center Park Web site is being able to organize and neatly present information to those who utilize the site. By also including a secure login, this adds to the ability to customize the information presented, and, in general, makes the site more user-friendly.


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