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Passwordless
Main article: Passwordless authentication
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- Snippet from Wikipedia: Passwordless authentication
Passwordless authentication is an authentication method in which a user can log in to a computer system without entering (and having to remember) a password or any other knowledge-based secret. In most common implementations users are asked to enter their public identifier (username, phone number, email address etc.) and then complete the authentication process by providing a secure proof of identity through a registered device or token.
Passwordless authentication methods typically rely on public-key cryptography infrastructure where the public key is provided during registration to the authenticating service (remote server, application or website) while the private key is kept on a user’s device (PC, smartphone or an external security token) and can be accessed only by providing a biometric signature or another authentication factor which is not knowledge-based.
These factors classically fall into two categories:
- Ownership factors (“Something the user has”) such as a cellular phone, OTP token, smart card or a hardware token.
- Inherence factors (“Something the user is”) like fingerprints, retinal scans, face or voice recognition and other biometric identifiers.
Some designs might also accept a combination of other factors such as geo-location, network address, behavioral patterns and gestures, as long as no memorized passwords are involved.
Passwordless authentication is sometimes confused with multi-factor authentication (MFA), since both use a wide variety of authentication factors, but while MFA is often used as an added layer of security on top of password-based authentication, passwordless authentication does not require a memorized secret and usually uses just one highly secure factor to authenticate identity (i.e., an external security token), making it faster and simpler for users.
"Passwordless MFA" is the term used when both approaches are employed, and the authentication flow is both passwordless and uses multiple factors, providing the highest security level when implemented correctly.
- Definition: Passwordless authentication refers to methods of verifying a user's identity without requiring a password. Instead, it uses alternative authentication factors such as biometrics, hardware tokens, or one-time codes.
- Function: Enhances security and user convenience by eliminating the need for passwords, which can be weak, reused, or forgotten.
- Components:
* '''Biometric Authentication''': Uses fingerprints, facial recognition, or other biometric data to authenticate users. * '''Hardware Tokens''': Physical devices such as YubiKeys that generate or store authentication codes. * '''One-Time Passwords (OTPs)''': Codes that are valid for a single login session or transaction, delivered via SMS, email, or an authenticator app. * '''Magic Links''': Links sent to a user's email or phone that log them in when clicked. * '''Public Key Infrastructure (PKI)''': Uses public and private cryptographic keys for secure authentication.
- Features:
* '''Enhanced Security''': Reduces the risk of password-related attacks such as phishing, brute force, and credential stuffing. * '''User Convenience''': Simplifies the login process by removing the need to remember and enter passwords. * '''Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)''': Often used in conjunction with other factors for added security.
- Usage: Implemented in various applications and systems to improve security and user experience, commonly used in corporate environments, banking, and online services.
Examples
- Using biometric authentication on a smartphone:
* Users can unlock their device and authenticate apps or services using their fingerprint or face recognition.
- Logging in with a hardware token:
* Insert a YubiKey into the USB port and press the button to generate a secure login code.
- Authenticating with a one-time password (OTP):
* Open an authenticator app like Google Authenticator to retrieve a time-based OTP and enter it during the login process.
- Using a magic link:
* Receive an email with a login link, click the link to be automatically logged into the service without needing to enter a password.
- Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) for authentication:
* Use a smart card or digital certificate stored on the device to authenticate to secure systems or services.
Summary
- Passwordless: Refers to authentication methods that do not require passwords, utilizing alternatives like biometrics, hardware tokens, OTPs, magic links, and PKI to enhance security and user convenience.
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