Table of contents
The problem with passwords
Passwords have long been the cornerstone of digital security, however, they come with significant drawbacks. Users often struggle to remember complex passwords, leading to weak password choices or the reuse of passwords across multiple sites. This behavior increases vulnerability to attacks such as phishing and credential stuffing. As organizations seek to enhance security while improving user experience, the shift towards passwordless login is becoming increasingly relevant.
What is passwordless authentication?
Passwordless authentication eliminates the need for traditional passwords, offering a more secure and user-friendly alternative. Instead of relying on something a user knows (a password), it utilizes methods that involve something the user has (like a mobile device or hardware token) or something the user is (biometric data). This transition not only enhances security but also streamlines the login process, making it easier for users to access their accounts without the hassle of remembering passwords.
Passwordless authentication vs MFA - What's the difference?
| Basis | Passwordless authentication | Multi-factor authentication (MFA) |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Authentication method that eliminates the need for passwords. | Authentication method that requires two or more verification factors. |
| Primary method | Utilizes biometric data (e.g., fingerprint, facial recognition), hardware tokens (e.g., FIDO2 keys), or mobile devices for authentication. | Combines multiple factors, such as a password, SMS code, and biometric verification. |
| User experience | Provides a seamless and faster login process without the need to remember passwords. | Can be more cumbersome due to multiple authentication steps. |
| Implementation complexity | Generally simpler to implement as it replaces traditional password management with a single authentication method. | Can be more complex to set up and manage due to the need for multiple factors and integration of various authentication methods. |
| Common use cases | Ideal for environments prioritizing user convenience and security, such as mobile apps and enterprise systems. | Commonly used in scenarios where sensitive data is accessed, such as banking and corporate systems. |
| Examples | FIDO2 authentication, biometrics (fingerprint, facial recognition). | SMS OTPs, email codes, hardware tokens combined with passwords. |
How does passwordless authentication work?
login
A user attempts to log in to Identity360, SSO-enabled cloud applications, or a VPN with their username, either from the identity portal or the client software.
Identity360 verifies the given username with Universal Directory and prompts the user for MFA verification.
Note: If the user is logging in to Identity360 for the first time, they will be required to complete email verification.
Here, the user's identity is verified through passwordless authentication method configured by the admin.
Identity360 offers FIDO2 authentication , compatible with both platform authenticators (like Windows Hello, Apple Touch ID, and Android Biometrics) and roaming authenticators (such as YubiKey and Google Titan).
If the identity verification is successful, the user is logged in to the application or endpoint.
Benefits of passwordless authentication
Organizations adopting passwordless authentication solutions, particularly through FIDO2, can benefit in several ways:
Passwordless security
By eliminating passwords, the risk of phishing and credential theft is significantly reduced.
Improved user experience
Users enjoy a seamless login process, reducing frustration associated with password management.
Lower IT costs
Fewer password-related support calls can lead to significant savings for IT departments.
Supported authenticators
Identity360 offers various authentication factors that enhance account security beyond traditional passwords.
passkeys Google Authenticator Microsoft Authenticator Zoho OneAuth TOTP SMS verification