netlify-identity

Implement headless user authentication and session management for Netlify-hosted apps.

32|7|Updated Nov 26, 2025
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/netlify/context-and-tools --skill netlify-identity-netlify
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent▼
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: netlify-identity
Source: https://github.com/netlify/context-and-tools/tree/main/codex/skills/netlify-identity
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/netlify/context-and-tools --skill netlify-identity-netlify

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes references (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

Provides a unified, headless API for managing users, signups, logins, OAuth, and role-based access control across browser and server contexts, without relying on deprecated widgets.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Headless API for login, signup, logout, OAuth, and user management.
  • Role-based access control via app_metadata.roles and secure session handling across client and server.
  • OAuth providers and external provider configuration for seamless sign-in flows.

Quick Start

Install @netlify/identity, import the API in your app, and begin authenticating users with login, signup, and OAuth.

Frequently Asked Questions about netlify-identity

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I implement headless authentication for a Netlify app?▼

To implement headless authentication for a Netlify app, use a unified API exposing login, signup, logout, and OAuth functions. This approach manages users and sessions across browser and server contexts without relying on deprecated UI widgets.

How does role-based access control work with Netlify Identity?▼

Role-based access control with Netlify Identity works by assigning user roles through app_metadata.roles. The API securely handles session management across both client and server contexts to enforce these specific access levels.

Can I use OAuth providers for login with Netlify serverless functions?▼

Yes, you can use OAuth providers for login with Netlify serverless functions. The API supports external provider configuration and seamless sign-in flows across both client-side browser applications and serverless backend functions.

What is the best way to manage user sessions across client and server on Netlify?▼

The best way to manage user sessions across client and server on Netlify is using a headless authentication API. It provides robust error handling and secure session management for browser-based apps and serverless Netlify Functions.

Does Netlify Identity support custom signup and login flows without UI widgets?▼

Yes, Netlify Identity supports custom signup and login flows without UI widgets. It exposes a headless API surface allowing direct integration of signup, login, and OAuth processes into your custom application interface.