Start with PortSwigger Web Security Academy’s JWT topic and deliberately vulnerable labs, then use Burp Suite Community Edition to inspect and edit tokens in the lab. Add jwt_tool for standalone command-line work, or OWASP PTK when you want to examine JWTs in a live browser session. Practise only in the Academy labs or on systems you have explicit permission to test.
What to learn before testing a JWT
A JSON Web Token (JWT) commonly carries a header and a payload encoded as base64url-encoded JSON, followed by a signature. Decoding the first two sections reveals their contents; it does not prove that the token is authentic. The application must verify the signature and validate the token correctly before trusting its claims. PortSwigger’s Web Security Academy explains these fundamentals alongside common implementation flaws and guided exercises: Web Security Academy JWT topic.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
The Academy material covers several distinct failure types: broken signature verification, weak signing secrets, unsafe handling of header parameters, and algorithm confusion. These are not interchangeable tricks. Each depends on how the application creates and validates tokens, so a changed claim or a tool-generated token matters only if the application accepts it.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Which free JWT testing resources should you use?
| Resource | Best fit | What it does | Limits and context |
|---|---|---|---|
| PortSwigger Web Security Academy JWT topic | Learning concepts and practising first | Explains JWT behavior and provides intentionally vulnerable labs for selected implementation flaws. | Lab results demonstrate particular scenarios; they are not a complete assessment of a real application. |
| Burp Suite with JWT Editor | Inspecting and modifying requests during lab practice | Inspector decodes token sections; JWT Editor can edit header or payload JSON and re-sign with a selected key. | Burp Community Edition is identified in the documentation as available for this workflow. Some extension features, including Collaborator payload functionality, require Burp Professional. |
| jwt_tool | Standalone command-line token work | A Python toolkit for validating, scanning, forging, and tampering with JWTs; its project also points to a repeatable testing playbook. | It cannot tell you, by itself, how a particular application validates tokens. Use it only within authorized scope. |
| OWASP PTK | Browser-based authenticated workflows | An open-source extension for inspecting and replaying traffic and testing JWTs in the live browser session. | OWASP describes it as complementary to full interception proxies, not a replacement for them or other testing tools. |
| PortSwigger JWT Scanner BApp | Automated checks inside Burp | Its listing describes automatic JWT detection and scans for several JWT weaknesses. | The listing reports version 2.1.0, last updated May 29, 2025. It is a third-party extension, and PortSwigger disclaims warranty; verify compatibility before relying on it. |
There is no controlled head-to-head evaluation in the available documentation, so these tools should not be ranked by speed or detection accuracy. Choose by workflow: guided learning, proxy-based request editing, command-line testing, or browser-session inspection.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
A practical beginner workflow
- Work through the Academy JWT explanations and labs. Start at PortSwigger Web Security Academy’s JWT topic. Read about token structure, signatures, weak secrets, header parameter injection, and algorithm confusion, then practise the associated vulnerable scenarios.
- Inspect a lab request in Burp. Send the lab’s authenticated request through Burp and use Inspector to decode the JWT sections. Note which claims and header fields are present before changing anything. The current Burp Inspector documentation describes decoding token sections.
- Make one controlled change at a time. Use JWT Editor to edit header or payload JSON and, when the exercise calls for it, re-sign using a selected key. Compare the application’s response with the original request. An altered claim is evidence only if the lab application accepts the token; a decoded or edited token alone does not establish a vulnerability. See Burp’s JWT Editor workflow documentation.
- Add jwt_tool if you want a terminal workflow. The jwt_tool project covers validation, scanning, token manipulation, and known vulnerability checks. Its playbook provides a repeatable methodology. Begin with a lab token and consult the project’s usage guidance rather than pointing commands at an unapproved service.
- Use OWASP PTK when testing in a browser session. Its workflow can help inspect and replay browser traffic while exercising JWT behavior. OWASP positions PTK as a complement to full interception proxies, so retain a proxy-based workflow when it is needed for broader request analysis. See OWASP Pentest Kit (PTK).
How to practise weak signing-secret recovery safely
PortSwigger’s weak-signing-key lab demonstrates how a weak secret can undermine JWT integrity and recommends hashcat as part of the exercise: JWT authentication bypass via weak signing key lab. Keep this activity inside that deliberately vulnerable lab. Recovering or guessing a signing secret against a real service is not an acceptable extension of the exercise unless it is explicitly included in your authorization and agreed scope.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Keep testing authorized and bounded
Use Academy labs for hands-on attack mechanics. For any other target, obtain explicit authorization, define the permitted systems and activities, and stop at the boundary of that scope. The jwt_tool project’s playbook also cautions that testing services without ownership or permission may be unlawful. A lab exercise teaches a technique; it does not grant permission to use it elsewhere.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
