Salesforce Commerce Cloud : Create Client Secret

Obtaining a client secret in Salesforce Commerce Cloud is a crucial step for securely authenticating API requests and integrating external systems. This guide provides detailed instructions to help you generate an API Client ID and retrieve a client secret, ensuring a smooth setup process while following security best practices.

Step 1: Log into Account Manager

Start by logging into the Salesforce Commerce Cloud Account Manager. This portal is your central hub for managing API clients and their configurations.

Step 2: Navigate to API Client Management

Once logged in, navigate to the API Client Management section. Here, you’ll see a list of existing API clients. Each entry displays key details like the client’s ID, display name, and status.

Step 3: Add a New API Client

To create a new API client, follow these steps:

Click the Add API Client button.
Fill in the required fields:
- Display Name: Provide a name that identifies the client’s purpose clearly.
- Password: Set a strong password and confirm it.
- Organizations: Select the relevant organization.
- Roles: Assign appropriate roles, such as Salesforce Commerce API. Include your production instance as a filter to restrict access appropriately.

Step 4: Configure OpenID Connect (Optional)

If you’re planning to use Authorization Code Flow or OpenID Connect, additional configurations are necessary:

Specify the tenant filter and roles in the Default Scopes field, separating each with a new line.
Ensure these configurations align with your organization’s security policies.

Step 5: Select Token Endpoint and Access Token Format

From the Token Endpoint dropdown, select client_secret_post.
For Access Token Format, choose JWT (JSON Web Token). JWTs are widely used for their secure and compact structure.

Step 6: Save the API Client

Click Save to finalize the setup. The new API client will now appear in the list for your organization, with its details available for future reference.

Step 7: Retrieve the Client Secret

To retrieve the client secret:

Locate the newly created API client in the list.
Click on its entry to view details.
Copy the Client Secret displayed and store it securely, as it’s critical for authenticating API requests.

Best Practices for Managing Client Secrets

To maintain security and compliance, implement the following best practices:

1. Secure Storage

Store client secrets in secure locations, such as encrypted environment variables or dedicated secrets management tools like AWS Secrets Manager or HashiCorp Vault.

2. Limited Access

Restrict access to the client secret only to systems or individuals that require it.
Implement Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) for enhanced security.

3. Regular Rotation

Rotate client secrets periodically to minimize the risk of unauthorized access.
Ensure all applications using the secret are updated promptly after each rotation.

4. Monitor Usage

Use tools provided by Salesforce Commerce Cloud to monitor API usage and logs for unauthorized or unusual activity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How can I securely store and manage API client secrets in Salesforce Commerce Cloud?

Use a secrets management tool or encrypted storage mechanisms. Avoid hardcoding secrets in application code or storing them in plain text.

2. What are the best practices for using client certificates in Salesforce Commerce Cloud?

Store client certificates securely, rotate them periodically, and use mutual TLS for enhanced security.

3. How do I configure service credentials in Salesforce B2C Commerce?

Service credentials can be configured through the Account Manager. Assign proper roles and scopes based on the service’s requirements.

Setting up a client secret in Salesforce Commerce Cloud is straightforward if you follow the outlined steps. By adhering to best practices, you can ensure secure and reliable API integrations. Regularly review and update your configurations to address potential vulnerabilities and stay compliant with evolving security standards.

For more insights and guidance on Salesforce Commerce Cloud, explore our blog!