Introducing Passkeys: A Secure and Convenient Way to Authenticate

Recently, you may have noticed that your phone now offers the option to create a passkey when logging in to websites that require authentication.

In this short article, I’ll explain what a passkey is, how it works, and why it’s a secure alternative to traditional passwords.

What is a Passkey?

• A passkey is a new technology designed to replace both passwords and multi-factor authentication.
• It’s essentially the passwordless solution of the future.
• Developed by the FIDO Alliance, which includes major companies like Apple, Google, Microsoft, Amazon, and more.
• passkeys offer a streamlined and secure way to access your account.

How Does It Work?

• When you create a passkey for a website or mobile app, your device generates a pair of keys: a private key and a public key.
• Your device shares the public key with the website or app during the initial setup.
• The next time you log in, your device only prompts you for your usual authentication method (e.g., fingerprint, face recognition, or PIN).
• The website then challenges your device with a code created using the public key you provided earlier.
• Only your private key can decrypt this challenge and provide the correct response, allowing you access.

Why Choose Passkeys?

• Passkeys offer several advantages:
• Enhanced Security: Unlike passwords, which can be easily guessed or stolen, passkeys rely on strong encryption.
• Ease of Use: No need to remember complex passwords or wait for SMS codes.
• Multi-Device Support: You can log in from multiple devices using a QR code.For example, if you’re logging in from a new device, the website generates a QR code. Simply scan it using the original device where you created the passkey to gain access

Current Challenges

• Signing across multiple sites OS compatibility : the three major current implementations are Apple , Microsoft and Google are not compatible with each other.
• While passkey support is being introduced for devices, it also requires activation by websites, apps, and other services. Although passkeys are expected to become the norm for critical accounts, achieving universal adoption will take considerable time.