How to build a public LinkedIn Ads integration: Building the Auth Flow

Aug 1, 2024 • 6 minute read

Hey there, fellow JavaScript devs! Ready to dive into the world of LinkedIn Ads API integration? Let's focus on the crucial part: building a rock-solid authorization flow. Buckle up, because we're about to make your integration dreams come true!

Introduction

LinkedIn Ads API is a powerful tool, but without proper authorization, it's like having a sports car without the keys. We'll walk you through setting up a smooth, secure auth flow that'll have your users zooming through your integration in no time.

Prerequisites

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

A LinkedIn Developer account (if you don't have one, what are you waiting for?)
A registered application (your ticket to the API party)
The required scopes for LinkedIn Ads API (think of these as your VIP pass)

OAuth 2.0 Flow Overview

We're using the Authorization Code Flow here. It's like a secret handshake between your app and LinkedIn. You'll need your client ID, client secret, and redirect URI – guard these with your life!

Implementing the Authorization Flow

Step 1: Redirect to LinkedIn

First, we need to send users to LinkedIn's authorization page. It's like introducing your app to LinkedIn and asking, "Hey, can we be friends?"

const authUrl = `https://www.linkedin.com/oauth/v2/authorization?response_type=code&client_id=${clientId}&redirect_uri=${redirectUri}&scope=${scope}`;
// Redirect the user to authUrl

Step 2: Handle the Callback

LinkedIn will send the user back to your redirect URI with a special code. It's like LinkedIn saying, "Yeah, we can be friends. Here's my number."

app.get('/callback', (req, res) => {
  const code = req.query.code;
  // Use this code in the next step
});

Step 3: Exchange Code for Access Token

Now, let's trade that code for an access token. It's time to make this friendship official!

const response = await fetch('https://www.linkedin.com/oauth/v2/accessToken', {
  method: 'POST',
  body: new URLSearchParams({
    grant_type: 'authorization_code',
    code,
    client_id: clientId,
    client_secret: clientSecret,
    redirect_uri: redirectUri,
  }),
});
const { access_token } = await response.json();

Token Management

Treat your access tokens like your house keys – keep them safe and know when to get new ones. Store them securely, refresh when needed, and always be prepared for expiration.

Error Handling

Even the best of us face errors. Be ready for common hiccups like invalid codes or expired tokens. Graceful error handling is your best friend here.

try {
  // Your auth code here
} catch (error) {
  console.error('Oops! Something went wrong:', error);
  // Handle the error gracefully
}

Best Practices

Remember, with great power comes great responsibility. Follow LinkedIn's rate limiting guidelines, and always prioritize security. Your users are trusting you with their data, so don't let them down!

Testing the Integration

Time to put on your detective hat! Test your auth flow thoroughly. Try different scenarios, break things (intentionally, of course), and fix them. Your future self will thank you.

Conclusion

And there you have it! You've just built a solid foundation for your LinkedIn Ads integration. The auth flow might seem like a small part, but it's the gatekeeper to all the cool stuff you'll do next.

Additional Resources

Want to dive deeper? Check out:

Now go forth and integrate! Your LinkedIn Ads adventure awaits. Happy coding!