What is a common practice for securing APIs in MuleSoft?

Applying a token-based authentication method is a common practice for securing APIs in MuleSoft because it provides a secure way to authenticate users and services without the need to transmit sensitive information repeatedly. Token-based authentication involves issuing a token to a user after they log in, which can then be used for subsequent requests, essentially acting as a proof of identity.

This approach enhances security by ensuring that credentials are not sent repeatedly over the network, significantly reducing the risk of credential theft. Moreover, it supports various authentication flows, such as OAuth 2.0, which is widely adopted for its flexibility and security features. Token-based methods also allow for better management of access rights and can provide tokens with limited lifetimes, further securing the API by minimizing the window of vulnerability.

In contrast, relying solely on HTTP protocols does not inherently provide security features, and limiting API access to internal users only restricts scalability and usability of the API for external applications or partners, which may hinder business needs. Minimizing the use of API keys can be beneficial for reducing the surface area of potential attacks, but it would not provide the robust security features that a token-based system offers.