Passkeys: What You Need to Know

What are Passkeys?

Passkeys are a form of authentication that replaces passwords. They are based on public-key cryptography and allow users to securely prove their identity when signing in to apps and websites without remembering or typing in passwords. Passkeys use biometrics like fingerprint or face recognition to verify users. This eliminates the vulnerabilities of password reuse or phishing

What are the benefits?

  • More secure than passwords and Multifactor Authentication (MFA)
  • Supported on 80% of mobile devices
  • Faster login – under 5 seconds versus 30 seconds for password and MFA
  • Works on Windows, MacOS, Linux, iOS, Android

Are passkeys the future?

The widespread adoption of passkeys as a complete replacement for passwords depends on several factors, including technological advancements, user acceptance, and industry standards. Additionally, there are ongoing discussions about the ethical and privacy implications of using biometrics.

It remains to be seen whether they will fully replace traditional passwords in all contexts and applications. The evolution of authentication methods will likely continue, driven by the ongoing need for stronger security measures and improved user experiences.