What is passwordless?

Passwordless is a security method that removes the need for traditional passwords in favour of more secure and user-friendly login methods. Instead of memorising complex passwords, users can identify themselves with biometric data (fingerprints, facial recognition), one-time passwords, security keys or devices they already own, such as smartphones.

This approach improves both security and user experience. Passwords are often one of the biggest security risks as they can be stolen, forgotten or reused across multiple services. Passwordless eliminates these issues by making authentication more robust and less vulnerable to attacks like phishing and brute force. Technologies like FIDO2 and WebAuthn have made it easier for organisations to implement passwordless login across devices and platforms.

How passwordless works

Passwordless can be implemented in several ways depending on the chosen method and the user's device:

• Biometrics: The user logs in by scanning a fingerprint, face or iris, ensuring unique and secure access.
• Security keys: A physical device, such as a USB stick (e.g. YubiKey), is used to verify identity.
• One-time passwords (OTP): The user receives a temporary code via SMS, email or an authenticator app to be entered at login.
• Magic links: An email with a unique, time-limited link is sent to the user, who simply clicks on it to log in.
• Trusted devices: A previously authorised device can be used for automatic login without the need for further verification.

What these methods have in common is that they make it more difficult for hackers to gain access to an account as there is no password that can be compromised.

Benefits and limitations of passwordless

Passwordless offers a more secure and user-friendly way to log in, replacing traditional passwords with stronger authentication methods. This reduces many of the risks and challenges associated with passwords, but the technology also has some limitations.

Benefits:

• Increased security: Eliminates the risk of phishing, brute force attacks and data breaches as there are no passwords to steal.
• Improved user experience: Users don't have to remember or reset passwords, making the login process faster and easier.
• Lower support costs: Organisations reduce the need for password-related IT support as fewer users experience login issues.

Limitations:

• Requires specialised hardware: Biometric sensors or security keys may be required, which can limit accessibility.
• Privacy concerns: Some users may be sceptical about sharing biometric data, even if it is only stored locally.
• Recovery challenges: If a user loses their security key or device, it can be difficult to restore access without a backup solution.

Although passwordless has some limitations, the benefits are significant and the technology is increasingly being adopted as a more secure and efficient solution for digital access.

Areas of application for passwordless

Passwordless is increasingly used across industries and digital services. Organisations are using it to protect employee accounts and reduce the risk of cyberattacks. Major tech companies like Google, Microsoft and Apple offer passwordless login to their services to increase security for users. Financial institutions implement it to prevent fraud and secure transactions, while healthcare organisations use it to protect patient data.

E-commerce platforms and social media are also experimenting with passwordless to make the login process faster and more secure. With the emergence of standards like FIDO2, passwordless is becoming an increasingly popular solution that combines convenience and strong security.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions