Passkey Authentication: What Is It & How to Implement It

Passkey authentication, developed by the Fast Identity Online (FIDO) Alliance, offers a secure alternative to traditional passwords by utilizing asymmetric cryptography involving a public and private key pair, enhancing defenses against threats like phishing and brute force attacks. Unlike passwordless authentication, which relies on alternative factors like magic links or one-time codes, passkeys are stored on physical or digital platforms and provide a unique mechanism for user verification. Passkey authentication not only improves security and reduces password fatigue but also aligns with regulatory standards like GDPR and PCII, making it a scalable and flexible option for applications with growing user bases. While implementation may pose challenges due to its complexity and potential performance impacts, developers are encouraged to leverage resources like NIST’s cryptography overview and hardware acceleration features to optimize efficiency. Monitoring and incident response are crucial for maintaining security, and tools like SuperTokens can simplify the integration process, allowing developers to focus on protecting user data and building trust.