Passkey
Passkey definition
A passkey is an authentication method aimed to replace passwords. It’s designed to enhance security and user convenience for accessing online accounts and information. Passkeys operate using WebAuthn technology, which employs public-key cryptography to authenticate a user’s identity.
See also: password authentication protocol, biometric authentication, passwordless
Benefits of Passkey Security
Protection against fraud. Passkeys significantly reduce the risk of phishing attacks — since the user doesn’t have to remember a password, they can’t accidentally give it away.
Unique and secure. Each passkey is uniquely created and linked to an account.
User convenience. Once devices are synced, there’s no need to remember login details.
Passkey vs. Password
Creation method. Passkeys are automatically generated using public-key cryptography. In contrast, passwords are user-generated and are more vulnerable to social engineering and brute force attacks.
Access control. Each login with a passkey involves generating a unique cryptographic key, whereas passwords require entering the same credentials each time.
Security risks. Passkeys are resistant to common attacks like phishing, brute force, and keylogging, unlike passwords.
Authentication process. Authenticating with a passkey is a two-step process (identity verification and private key), while passwords can involve more (with two-factor authentication).