As I continue to learn and utilize the AngularJS framework, I have noticed that while some of its features are impressive, some key aspects make it challenging for authentication-based applications.
For example, let's consider a scenario where a website requires user login before accessing a dashboard with private data. Traditionally, I would handle this on the server side by running a script to determine if a user is authenticated before serving HTML content or redirecting them elsewhere. However, AngularJS suggests using the route feature, like so:
when('/dashboard', {
templateUrl: 'dashboard.html',
controller: 'DashboardController'
})
This approach involves fetching the template HTML first, then validating authentication in the controller, and potentially redirecting the route. There are several drawbacks to this method:
1) Exposing HTML to all users raises security concerns, as sensitive information may be visible without proper authentication.
2) With multiple requests to fetch template, validate authentication, and handle redirection, there can be unnecessary strain on the server. Comparatively, processing these tasks on the server-side limits it to a single request.
3) Ensuring consistency between server-side and client-side routing configurations adds complexity and reduces code modularity, making maintenance more cumbersome.
Given these considerations, should AngularJS be used selectively based on application needs? Is it better to leverage certain AngularJS features like controllers and variable binding while avoiding others such as routing?
Am I approaching this issue from the wrong perspective?