What is Passwordless Authentication?
What is passwordless authentication?
The term “passwordless authentication” is one that is relatively new in the world of logins and passwords. With traditional logins, users are required to generate a unique password for each account they use. Having this many passwords can be a very cumbersome and risky process as it leaves weak spots for hackers and others to exploit. Passwordless authentication provides a safer and more secure option for those looking to login without the need of a password at all.
Why do we need passwordless authentication?
In the wake of many data breaches and password leaks, security has been a major topic in the public eye. Passwordless authentication is a way to skip passwords and go straight for a username to log in. This eliminates the need for memorizing a password or writing it down somewhere. Plus, if your username is leaked there’s not much damage that can be done because the attacker only has access to your username which you have already given them.
How does passwordless authentication work?
In the digital age, the use of passwords is ubiquitous. Regardless of what site it is, from a company’s customer login page to a bank account on a personal computer, passwords are commonly expected. However, chances are that if you haven’t been passwordless in some time, you have forgotten your password more than once. Passwordless authentication is a new way to log into your account that some companies are starting to implement. Instead of using a password, all you need to do is verify your identity with two or more authenticators like biometrics, voice recognition, SMS text message, email, or security code.
Technical implementation: What software do you need?
Unlike previous systems, there is no client software for users to download, install, and configure. It can be installed rapidly and expanded to accommodate any big user base since it is centralized and managed by the webserver.
Implementation: How to set up the system in your organization.
As a result of deploying Passwordless Authentication, there is no need for users to submit credentials again once they have access. When using a smartphone or tablet, the system automatically detects the device and logs the user in. When using a computer workstation, the user just waves their phone in front of the screen to communicate. Access is granted in a secure manner right away. A Proof-of-Presence popup appears if the WebAuthn option is selected and the user enters their PIN number.
Conclusion:
As a result of deploying Passwordless Authentication, there is no need for users to submit credentials again once they have access. When using a smartphone or tablet, the system automatically detects the device and logs the user in. When using a computer workstation, the user just waves their phone in front of the screen to communicate. Access is granted in a secure manner right away. A Proof-of-Presence popup appears if the WebAuthn option is selected and the user enters their PIN number.
