Next.js Protected Routes: Require User Profiles with Kinde (EASY!)

Summary

This video script outlines the process of user onboarding for an application, focusing on the 'Potl Pal' example. It details the importance of collecting complete user profiles post-sign up and demonstrates gating access to certain pages until profiles are fully created. The script covers technical implementations using Next.js, Auth0 for authentication, and Zeta for database management, highlighting the setup of a multi-step form and the significance of required user information like names and usernames for event participation.

Takeaways

• 📝 The video discusses the process of user onboarding in an application called 'Potl Pal', focusing on gating access to certain pages until the user completes their profile after signup.
• 🔒 It emphasizes the importance of collecting essential information like name and username for adding people to events, which is why the rest of the pages are gated until the profile is complete.
• 🔄 The presenter demonstrates the use of Next.js 14 with the App Router for routing and the use of K for authentication, which is a sponsor of the video.
• 🗃️ The video mentions the use of Zeta as the database to store user profile information separately from the authentication data stored in K.
• 🛠️ The presenter shows the setup process in K, including creating a new application and configuring environment variables for authentication callbacks and logout URLs.
• 🔑 The video covers the technical setup required for authentication, including setting up API routes in Next.js to handle login and logout processes with K.
• 🔍 It also discusses the implementation of a loading indicator to check username availability, which is a feature the presenter considers highlighting in a separate video.
• 📝 The script talks about the importance of making the signup process easy and only requiring essential information upfront, with the option to fill out smaller details later.
• 🔄 The video includes a walkthrough of the code setup for the application, including environment variable configuration and the use of the K SDK for authentication.
• 📚 The presenter mentions the possibility of creating a mini-course based on the application, indicating an interest in expanding on the content covered in the video.
• 🔗 The video concludes with an invitation for viewers to subscribe to the presenter's newsletter for updates on the mini-course and other content.

Q & A

What is the purpose of the 'Potl Pal' application mentioned in the script?

The 'Potl Pal' application is designed to facilitate user sign-ups and manage events where users can add their names and request others to bring items. It emphasizes creating a full profile post sign-up to ensure smooth event management.

How does the sign-in process work in the 'Potl Pal' application?

The sign-in process involves using an email to receive a confirmation code, which the user then enters to be redirected back to the application. This initiates the profile completion stage, which is essential for further interaction within the app.

Why is gating access to certain pages until the user completes their profile important in the 'Potl Pal' application?

Gating access ensures that users add essential information like their name and username, which is crucial for adding people to events or requesting items. This process streamlines the user experience and functionality within the app.

What is the role of the loading indicator feature in the 'Potl Pal' application?

The loading indicator is a neat feature that checks the availability of a username. It provides real-time feedback to the user during the profile creation process, enhancing the user interface and experience.

How is user authentication handled in the 'Potl Pal' application?

User authentication is managed through a combination of Next.js 14 with the App Router and K for authentication. K is used to handle login and logout processes, and it integrates with Next.js to manage user sessions effectively.

What is the significance of using Zeta as a database for the 'Potl Pal' application?

Zeta is used as a database to store user profiles separately from the authentication data managed by K. It allows for the storage of additional user information, such as names and usernames, which are essential for the app's functionality.

How does the 'Potl Pal' application ensure that users complete their profiles before accessing other features?

The application uses a redirect mechanism that sends users back to the profile completion page if they attempt to access features like 'My Events' or 'Create an Event' without having completed their profiles.

What is the role of the 'useKindBrowserClient' hook in the 'Potl Pal' application?

The 'useKindBrowserClient' hook is used to access the user object and loading state from the K authentication client. It helps in determining whether a user is logged in and provides the necessary user information for the application.

How does the 'Potl Pal' application manage the sign-up process to make it as easy as possible?

The application simplifies the sign-up process by initially requiring only an email for sign-up. It then focuses on collecting additional necessary information like name and username post sign-up to complete the user profile.

What are the considerations for storing additional user properties in the 'Potl Pal' application?

The application considers whether to store additional user properties within K or in a separate database like Zeta. The decision is based on convenience, control, and how the data will be accessed in relation to other application data.

How does the 'Potl Pal' application handle the creation of user profiles in Zeta?

The application uses the Zeta TypeScript SDK to interact with the Zeta database. It creates a user profile table and stores user information such as the user ID, username, and actual name, ensuring each profile is unique and associated with the correct user.