Passkeys

Passkeys are a modern, passwordless authentication method designed to improve security and convenience. They are based on public-key cryptography and are meant to replace traditional passwords. Here’s how they work and why they’re beneficial:

How Passkeys Work

1. Key Pair Generation:

• When you create a passkey for a website or app, your device generates a public and private key.

• The public key is stored by the website, while the private key remains securely on your device.

2. Authentication Process:

• When you log in, the website sends a challenge that your device signs using the private key.

• This signed response is verified with the public key stored by the website.

• Since only your device has the private key, the authentication is secure.

3. Biometric or Device Authentication:

• Instead of entering a password, you authenticate using Face ID, Touch ID, Windows Hello, or a PIN.

Benefits of Passkeys

More Secure – No passwords to steal via phishing or data breaches.

Convenient – No need to remember or type passwords.

Resistant to Phishing – Passkeys are tied to specific websites and can’t be used elsewhere.

Multi-Device Support – Can sync across devices via iCloud Keychain, Google Password Manager, etc.

Where Are Passkeys Used?

• Apple, Google, and Microsoft support passkeys in their ecosystems.

• Websites and services like PayPal, eBay, and some banks are adopting them.

How to Use Passkeys

• When signing up or logging in to a service, choose “Sign in with a passkey” instead of a password.

• Authenticate using your fingerprint, face scan, or PIN.

• Passkeys can be synced across devices or transferred via QR codes.

Developed by ChatGPT

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