Password vs Passkey
Passwords have long been the standard for accessing accounts and services. However, passkeys are emerging as a modern and more secure alternative.
What Is a Password?
A password is a combination of characters that a user selects to identify themselves. It is typed, stored, and used to verify that the person attempting access is who they claim to be.
The problem with passwords lies in their vulnerabilities. Brute force attacks, phishing, and compromised databases are just some of the risks they face. Additionally, the need to remember long and unique passwords for every account makes them impractical and often insecure.
What Is a Passkey?
A passkey, on the other hand, is an authentication method based on public key cryptography. Instead of a combination the user remembers and types, a passkey is generated and managed automatically on secure devices. The process uses two keys:
- A public key stored by the service.
- A private key that stays on the user’s device and is never shared.
To authenticate, the user relies on biometrics or a local PIN, eliminating the need to remember or type anything.
How the Experience Looks
With a password, logging in requires typing your email address and a character combination. Something like:
Email: marta@gmail.com
Password: MyKittens2023!
[Log In]This is manual, and mistakes or forgotten passwords can lead to issues.
In contrast, with a passkey, you only need your device. When attempting to log in, you’ll see a button like:
Email: marta@gmail.com
[Log In with Passkey]You click it, confirm your identity with your fingerprint or facial recognition, and that’s it. The magic happens in the background: your device uses its private key to prove to the service that you are indeed you.
Benefits of Passkeys
Security is the standout feature here. Since they don’t rely on something you can type, passkeys are resistant to phishing and brute force attacks. Additionally, being based on hardware or biometrics makes them far more convenient.
If you’ve ever struggled to remember a complicated password or worried about reusing them across services, passkeys offer a significant relief. Everything is designed to be secure and frictionless.
Please read the article about password managers
Are We Ready to Leave Passwords Behind?
While passkeys are a clear improvement, their adoption depends on support from services and devices. The good news is that many major technologies are already implementing them, bringing the future of authentication closer.
In summary, passkeys offer security and convenience in a digital world that desperately needs both. If you have the chance to use this method, don’t hesitate to try it and enjoy a safer, smoother experience.