Is Passwordless Authentication Good?

Traditionally, the only way to access an online resource like an account was by logging in using a username and password. However, passwords are no longer safe. Studies have proven that the primary causes of most unwanted credential thefts and cyber-attacks are password-related. For instance, criminals gain access to individuals’ and companies’ credentials thanks to weak, stolen, or compromised passwords.

As cyber security expert Transmit Security explains (https://www.transmitsecurity.com/blog/passwordless-authentication-guide), there are many ways you can authenticate your identity and gain access to your accounts, including passwordless authentication.

What is Passwordless Authentication and how does it work?

Passwordless authentication is a user identity verification method that does not require the use of a password. Instead, it uses securer alternatives like biometrics (fingerprints and retinal scans) and possession factors (registered phones and OTP).

Passwordless authentication works by substituting passwords with other verification factors that are safer and more reliable. Like password-based authentication, the provided verification information is compared with what is stored in the system’s database. However, instead of passwords, the system used specific traits. For instance, the system will capture a user’s face, excerpt arithmetic data from it, and then liken it to verified information in the database. Also, the way passwordless authentication works differs depending on the type.

Types of Passwordless Authentication

There are many ways to achieve passwordless authentication. The most common ones are:

• Magic links- this is where users enter their email addresses, and the system they want to access sends them an email containing a link. So, all they need to do to access the online resource is click on the link.
• Possession factors- this is where users must use something they own or possess to gain access to a site, application, or online account. For instance, when you try to access your account, the system may send a one-time verification passcode generated by a smartphone authenticator app. Other possession authentication factors are OTPs sent via email, SMS, or hardware tokens.
• Biometrics-this type uses physical or generic traits like fingerprint or retina scans. Some systems use behavioral characteristics, like touch screen dynamics, to identify a person’s unique identity.
• Authentication apps- you can also use an app on your device to verify your identity when logging in using another device.

Benefits of Passwordless Authentication

Passwordless authentication has become a trend because of its benefits. So, let’s explore some of the advantages of passwordless authentication:

It improves user experience

Nowadays, you cannot access most websites, applications, and social platforms without an account. Therefore, according to sources, the average internet user has over five dozen passwords. This is frustrating because users must memorize all the passwords and think creatively to create passwords for every account. However, with passwordless authentication, you need not remember the passwords. Therefore passwordless authentication improves convenience for users and eliminates stress. Organizations can benefit from this because users will not have anything hindering them from returning to their websites or completing orders.

It improves security

Passwordless authentication improves security because you need not worry about password theft. Also, unlike passwords, criminals cannot steal your biometrics. Additionally, OTPs and magic links provide better security because they are harder to compromise and complicate accessing accounts.

They help organizations strengthen their cyber security and reduce costs

Several organizations have lost millions due to cyber attacks. Most of the time, these attacks begin with a leaked or compromised password that gives attackers access to an organization’s network. Therefore, passwordless authentication eliminates these issues by taking passwords out of the equation. The safety of passwordless authentication also helps reduce running costs for organizations in the long run.

It simplifies IT operations

The IT department is usually burdened with the challenge of issuing, securing, rotating, and resetting passwords. Additionally, the department must manage the passwords to prevent cyber attacks. Therefore, passwordless authentication helps simplify IT operations by eliminating the need to issue, secure, manage, and rotate passwords.

The downsides of passwordless authentication

While passwordless authentication is highly beneficial, it also has a few downsides. They include:

• Passwordless authentication does not protect users if they lose their devices or swap SIMs
• Sometimes, biometrics are not foolproof
• Many users are hesitant about trusting passwordless authentication

So Is Passwordless Authentication Good?

Passwordless authentication is excellent because it enhances security and better protects you from cyber attacks than passwords. Therefore, it is a technology worth considering.