For small and mid-sized companies, security is a top priority.
With the increasing number of cyber threats and data breaches, it's essential to stay ahead of the game and implement robust security measures.
One way to do this is by using passkeys, a secure authentication feature that uses proximity-based technology, biometrics, and device-specific credentials to log users into an application.
In this article, you’ll learn how to:
Passkeys are a type of passwordless credential that can be used to access digital accounts.
They are phishing-resistant, broadly supported by major tech manufacturers, and have seen growing acceptance in consumer applications. Passkeys are now available on more than 7 billion online accounts.
Passkeys are private keys tied to an individual's device or account on a specific service or application.
To authenticate with a passkey, users unlock the device where it's stored through a user verification method (like a PIN or biometric identifier), and a cryptographic protocol is performed in the background to prove that they still own the passkey. If it's successful, they're granted access.
Passkeys offer several benefits, including:
Increased Security - Passkeys are more secure than traditional passwords and are resistant to phishing attacks
Streamlined User Experience - Passkeys eliminate the need for usernames and passwords, making it easier for users to access digital accounts.
Improved Productivity - With Passkeys, users don't need to worry about remembering complex passwords or changing them regularly.
There are two ways to deploy Passkeys: Synced Passkeys and Device-Bound Passkeys.
Synced Passkeys are stored in cloud-based managers and can be accessed on multiple devices. Device-bound passkeys are bound to a specific device, such as a smart card or USB key.
While Passkeys offer several benefits, there are also some challenges to consider:
Management Issues- Synced Passkeys can be difficult to manage, especially in BYOD environments.
Device Loss - If a user loses or replaces a device used for Passkey authentication, they may need to reset their Passkey settings.
To get the most out of Passkeys, it's essential to implement them correctly. Here are some best practices to consider:
Use Device-Bound Passkeys - Device-Bound Passkeys offer a higher degree of protection and can increase operational efficiency.
Implement a Robust Backup Plan - In case of device loss or replacement, have a plan in place to reset Passkey settings.
Educate Users- Help users understand how and why Passkeys fit into the company's security strategy.
Passkeys are a secure and convenient way to authenticate users and enhance enterprise security. By understanding how passkeys work and implementing them correctly, mid-sized companies can improve their security posture and reduce the risk of cyber threats.
Recommendations:
By following these recommendations, companies can enhance their security performance and stay ahead of the game in the ever-evolving world of cybersecurity.