How to build a public Copper integration: Building the Auth Flow

Hey there, fellow JavaScript enthusiasts! Ready to dive into the world of Copper integrations? Today, we're going to walk through building a rock-solid authorization flow for your public Copper integration. Buckle up, because we're about to make API magic happen!

Introduction

Copper's API is a powerhouse for CRM integrations, but before we can tap into that goldmine of data, we need to set up a secure authorization flow. This is crucial for keeping your users' data safe and sound. Trust me, it's worth the effort!

Prerequisites

Before we jump in, make sure you've got:

• Your favorite JavaScript environment set up
• A Copper developer account with API credentials
• A good cup of coffee (optional, but recommended)

OAuth 2.0 Flow Overview

We'll be using the Authorization Code Grant flow, which is perfect for server-side applications. Here's what you need to know:

• Client ID: Your app's unique identifier
• Client Secret: Keep this under wraps!
• Redirect URI: Where Copper sends the user after authorization

Setting up the Authorization Request

Let's kick things off by constructing the authorization URL:

const authUrl = 'https://app.copper.com/oauth/authorize';
const params = new URLSearchParams({
  client_id: YOUR_CLIENT_ID,
  redirect_uri: YOUR_REDIRECT_URI,
  response_type: 'code',
  scope: 'all'
});

const fullAuthUrl = `${authUrl}?${params.toString()}`;

Now, redirect your user to fullAuthUrl. They'll authenticate with Copper, and you'll get a shiny authorization code in return.

Exchanging the Authorization Code for Access Token

Once you've got the code, it's time to swap it for an access token:

const tokenUrl = 'https://app.copper.com/oauth/token';
const response = await fetch(tokenUrl, {
  method: 'POST',
  headers: { 'Content-Type': 'application/json' },
  body: JSON.stringify({
    client_id: YOUR_CLIENT_ID,
    client_secret: YOUR_CLIENT_SECRET,
    code: AUTH_CODE,
    grant_type: 'authorization_code',
    redirect_uri: YOUR_REDIRECT_URI
  })
});

const { access_token, refresh_token } = await response.json();

Store these tokens securely. Your server's memory or a secure database are good options.

Refreshing the Access Token

Access tokens don't last forever. When they expire, use the refresh token to get a new one:

const refreshResponse = await fetch(tokenUrl, {
  method: 'POST',
  headers: { 'Content-Type': 'application/json' },
  body: JSON.stringify({
    client_id: YOUR_CLIENT_ID,
    client_secret: YOUR_CLIENT_SECRET,
    refresh_token: STORED_REFRESH_TOKEN,
    grant_type: 'refresh_token'
  })
});

const { access_token: new_access_token } = await refreshResponse.json();

Making Authenticated Requests to Copper API

Now for the fun part! Let's make an API call:

const apiUrl = 'https://api.copper.com/developer_api/v1/leads';
const apiResponse = await fetch(apiUrl, {
  headers: {
    'X-PW-AccessToken': access_token,
    'X-PW-Application': 'developer_api',
    'X-PW-UserEmail': USER_EMAIL,
    'Content-Type': 'application/json'
  }
});

const leads = await apiResponse.json();

Error Handling and Edge Cases

Always be prepared for things to go sideways. Here's a quick error handling snippet:

try {
  // Your API call here
} catch (error) {
  if (error.response && error.response.status === 401) {
    // Time to refresh that token!
  } else {
    console.error('API call failed:', error);
  }
}

Security Considerations

Remember:

• Never expose your client secret on the client-side
• Always use HTTPS
• Store tokens securely, and never in local storage

Testing the Auth Flow

Manual testing is great, but automated tests are even better. Consider writing tests for:

• The initial authorization request
• Token exchange
• Token refresh
• API calls with the access token

Conclusion

And there you have it! You've just built a robust authorization flow for your Copper integration. Pat yourself on the back – you're now ready to create some seriously cool CRM integrations.

Remember, the key to a great integration is attention to detail and a focus on security. Keep iterating, keep learning, and most importantly, keep coding!

Happy integrating, folks! 🚀