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

Hey there, fellow JavaScript enthusiasts! Ready to dive into the world of Squarespace integrations? Today, we're going to tackle one of the most crucial aspects of building a public integration: the authorization flow. Buckle up, because we're about to make your integration secure and user-friendly in no time!

The Lowdown on Squarespace Integrations

Before we jump in, let's quickly touch on why Squarespace integrations are so cool. They allow you to extend the functionality of Squarespace sites, giving users access to your awesome tools and services. And at the heart of any good integration is a rock-solid auth flow. It's like the bouncer at an exclusive club – it keeps the right people in and the wrong people out.

What You'll Need

Alright, let's make sure you've got all your ducks in a row:

• A Squarespace developer account (if you don't have one, go grab it!)
• A decent understanding of OAuth 2.0 (don't worry, we'll refresh your memory)
• Node.js and Express.js set up and ready to roll

Got all that? Great! Let's get this party started.

Setting Up Your Integration in Squarespace

First things first, let's get your integration registered with Squarespace:

1. Head over to your Squarespace developer account and create a new integration.
2. Set up your redirect URIs. This is where Squarespace will send users after they authorize your app.
3. Grab your client ID and client secret. Guard these with your life!

Building the Auth Flow

Now for the main event – implementing the authorization flow. Here's how it goes down:

Step 1: Kick Off the Auth Request

const authUrl = `https://login.squarespace.com/api/1/login/oauth/provider/authorize?client_id=${clientId}&redirect_uri=${redirectUri}&state=${state}&response_type=code`;
res.redirect(authUrl);

This sends your user on a field trip to Squarespace to grant permissions.

Step 2: Handle the Callback

app.get('/callback', async (req, res) => {
  const { code, state } = req.query;
  // Verify state to prevent CSRF attacks
  if (state !== expectedState) {
    return res.status(400).send('Invalid state');
  }
  
  // Exchange code for tokens
  const tokens = await exchangeCodeForTokens(code);
  // Store tokens securely
  await storeTokens(tokens);
  
  res.send('Authorization successful!');
});

Step 3: Exchange Code for Tokens

async function exchangeCodeForTokens(code) {
  const response = await axios.post('https://login.squarespace.com/api/1/login/oauth/provider/tokens', {
    grant_type: 'authorization_code',
    code,
    client_id: clientId,
    client_secret: clientSecret,
    redirect_uri: redirectUri
  });
  
  return response.data;
}

Keeping Things Fresh: Token Refresh

Don't let those tokens go stale! Implement a refresh mechanism:

async function refreshAccessToken(refreshToken) {
  const response = await axios.post('https://login.squarespace.com/api/1/login/oauth/provider/tokens', {
    grant_type: 'refresh_token',
    refresh_token: refreshToken,
    client_id: clientId,
    client_secret: clientSecret
  });
  
  return response.data;
}

Making Authenticated Requests

Now that you've got your shiny new access token, put it to work:

async function makeApiRequest(endpoint) {
  const response = await axios.get(`https://api.squarespace.com/${endpoint}`, {
    headers: {
      'Authorization': `Bearer ${accessToken}`
    }
  });
  
  return response.data;
}

Handling the Curveballs

Life isn't always sunshine and rainbows. Be prepared for:

• Invalid or expired tokens (refresh 'em!)
• Users changing their minds and denying authorization (handle it gracefully)
• Network hiccups (retry with exponential backoff)

Keeping It Secure

Security isn't just a buzzword, it's your best friend:

• HTTPS everywhere – no exceptions!
• Store tokens securely (please, not in plain text)
• Implement CSRF protection (that 'state' parameter isn't just for show)

Take It for a Spin

Before you pop the champagne, give your integration a thorough test drive:

1. Try the happy path (everything works perfectly)
2. Throw some wrenches in the works (expired tokens, network errors)
3. Automate your tests (your future self will thank you)

Wrapping Up

And there you have it, folks! You've just built a secure, user-friendly authorization flow for your Squarespace integration. Pat yourself on the back – you've earned it!

Remember, this is just the beginning. From here, you can expand your integration to do all sorts of cool stuff. The sky's the limit!

Now go forth and integrate! And don't forget to share your awesome creations with the world. Happy coding! 🚀