Passwords have been a staple in data security and user authentication for many years, to the point where the idea of using a password has become nearly synonymous with the concept of security. Data has increasingly shown, however, that alternative options are in fact more secure. Let’s examine some of these passwordless authentication methods and their pros and cons.
What is Passwordless Authentication?
True to its name, passwordless authentication is identity authentication that operates without relying on a password. You can think of it like two-factor authentication (2FA), with the password factor skipped over.
Instead of using a password, passwordless authentication omits it and focuses on what would be the second factor—a hardware token, biometric, or code generated on demand through an owned device or sent to an email, among other options.
But Why Eliminate Passwords?
Let’s consider a few options that businesses have in terms of their cybersecurity:
- Use a password
- Use a password and supplement it with 2FA
- Use a passwordless authentication system
Passwords, when considered objectively, aren’t really a great option. First, how likely is it that the average user is going to be able to remember multiple unique and complex passwords? They aren’t. As a result, your IT team is either going to be inundated with password reset requests, or your users are going to take shortcuts that undermine your security. So, while a password may be a convenient option on a macro scale, it comes at the cost of your security. Not good.
Next, we might consider adding 2FA to our authentication requirements. This certainly boosts security, but it can also frustrate users and disrupt their experience. Also, not good.
Passwordless authentication measures eliminate both pain points. Not only are they secure, they make it far easier for your users to access what they need to do their jobs.
Options for Passwordless Authentication
There are a few drawbacks to passwordless authentication that may take some time to resolve. For instance, if you go the security key route, they can be easy to lose and potentially expensive to replace. Cost is a factor for most forms of passwordless authentication.
On top of this, some malware attacks are particularly effective against these measures. Time will only tell if businesses ultimately see the benefits of passwordless authentication to be worth the risks.
In the meantime, Advisors Tech is here to assist you with every aspect of your organization’s IT, including its security. Give us a call at 844.671.6071 to learn more.