Passkeys are a modern authentication method designed to replace traditional passwords, offering a more secure and user-friendly way to log into apps and websites. They are built on public key cryptography and are part of the FIDO2 (Fast Identity Online) standard. Here’s how they work:
Key Features of Passkeys
Passwordless Authentication:
Instead of typing a password, users authenticate with biometrics (like a fingerprint or facial recognition), a PIN, or other secure methods.
Public Key Cryptography:
Each passkey consists of two components:
A private key, stored securely on the user’s device and never shared.
A public key, shared with the service or application.
When you log in, the service verifies the private key by using the public key.
Device-Based Storage:
Passkeys are stored securely on a user’s device, often in a hardware-protected area (like the Secure Enclave on Apple devices or the TPM on Windows devices).
Cross-Device Syncing:
On supported platforms, passkeys can sync across multiple devices through encrypted cloud services, making them easy to use across ecosystems.
Phishing Resistance:
Because passkeys rely on cryptographic authentication tied to the specific service, they cannot be stolen or reused on malicious websites, unlike traditional passwords.
How Passkeys Work in Practice
When you sign up for a service, your device generates a passkey (private/public key pair).
The private key stays on your device, while the public key is sent to the service.
When logging in, the service sends a challenge to your device.
Your device uses the private key to sign the challenge and send the signed response back to the service.
The service verifies the response using the public key and grants access.
Advantages of Passkeys
Stronger Security: Eliminates weak, reused, or stolen passwords.
Ease of Use: No need to remember or type passwords.
Phishing and Replay Attack Prevention: Authentication happens directly with the service, making it resistant to credential theft.
Cross-Platform Compatibility: Supported by major ecosystems like Apple, Google, and Microsoft.
Where Are Passkeys Used?
Passkeys are increasingly being adopted by major tech companies and services as a replacement for traditional passwords. They’re supported on platforms like:
iOS and macOS
Android
Windows
Browsers like Chrome, Safari, and Edge
As they become more widespread, passkeys are expected to simplify and secure online authentication for both users and developers.