Once you have obtained a JSON Web Token (JWT), the next steps involve understanding, securely storing, and effectively using it for authentication and communication within your web application. A JWT comprises three parts: the Header, Payload, and Signature. It is crucial to store the JWT securely on the client-side, often in local storage or an HTTP-only cookie, to prevent cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks. For API requests, the JWT should be included in the Authorization header using the Bearer schema. On the server-side, you must verify the token’s signature, check its expiration, and validate its claims to ensure its authenticity and relevance. Handling token expiration through refresh tokens, decoding the JWT to access user information, and protecting your endpoints with role-based access control (RBAC) are essential steps to maintain security. Additionally, monitoring and logging JWT usage are vital for auditing and troubleshooting. Proper handling of JWTs ensures the security and efficiency of your authentication processes, safeguarding your application against potential vulnerabilities.