While both passkeys and 2FA enhance account security, they operate with distinct approaches, each with its pros and cons, designed for different levels of protection, convenience, and user benefit. Passkeys eliminate password use entirely and make logins both smooth and highly secure.
In contrast, 2FA (2 Factor Authentication) builds upon traditional login methods by requiring an extra layer of verification, such as a one-time code sent via email or SMS or an authenticator app on top of the username and password for added security.
If you're wondering whether passkeys are better than 2FA, the short answer is yes. Read on to dive deeper and understand the difference between them.
Passkeys are a passwordless authentication method that represents a leap toward an entirely passwordless future, prioritizing simplicity while offering robust protection. They use a combination of public and private cryptographic keys stored securely on a user’s device.
Passkeys are built on standards like FIDO2, an alliance framework that includes the Fast Identity Online (FIDO) protocol, and WebAuthn, a web authentication standard developed by the FIDO Alliance and the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C). These standards enable secure, interoperable authentication across devices and services.
Using passkeys is simple, when logging in to a service, the user's identity is verified by using the device's locking mechanism, such as biometrics, PIN code, and more. Among their advantages are reduced risks associated with password reuse, weak passwords, and password-related attacks.
Learn more about what are passkeys.
Two-factor authentication (2FA) is a security method that enhances online account protection by requiring an extra confirmation of a user's identity. Where usually, logging in requires entering a username and password, with 2FA, there’s an extra verification factor, such as a one-time code sent via SMS or email, an authentication app, or even a biometric scan.
This added security makes it significantly more difficult for attackers to breach accounts, even in cases where they manage to gain access to the password.
2FA is widely adopted across various platforms due to its effectiveness in safeguarding sensitive information, adding an important second line of defense against unauthorized access.
The main difference between Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) and Multifactor Authentication (MFA) lies in the number of verification steps. 2FA requires one additional verification step beyond the username and password, while MFA adds multiple layers of security on top of these credentials. This makes MFA even more secure than 2FA, though it can add more complexity to the login process.
For those looking for a secure alternative to traditional 2FA methods, passkeys can also be implemented, adding an extra layer of security without the hassle of traditional codes or physical encryption tokens. By combining passwords with a passkey 2FA, users have two-factor authentication that is both smooth and secure.
Passkeys streamline verification, reduce the risks of SMS or app-based 2FA, and provide a secure, convenient alternative.
Unlike 2FA methods, which require an additional step, passkeys integrate multiple layers of verification into a single action, effectively adding security while enhancing convenience.
Passkeys eliminate the need to enter a password, unlike 2FA: Once you setup passkeys for your account, passwords are removed from the login process altogether, thereby making your account impervious to password-related attacks, such as phishing and data breaches. Whereas 2FA gives extra security to an account protected by a password, adding another step in verification, that password remains a vulnerability. This added layer makes 2FA critical in safeguarding accounts in the event of password compromise, but passkeys take it a step further by eliminating that risk.
Passkeys cannot be intercepted, unlike several 2FA methods: Due to passkeys being automated and the user not having to manually input anything to authenticate, they eliminate the risk of interception. In comparison, some forms of 2FA, such as codes sent over SMS or email, can be subject to interception attempts by cybercriminals. Though convenient, these options are among the least secure, as they can be hijacked through techniques like SIM swapping or phishing, increasing the risk of account compromise.
Passkeys not only strengthen security but also enhance the user experience: Unlike 2FA, which adds extra steps and can feel cumbersome, with passkeys, login is faster and smooth, as they eliminate passwords and make the authentication process a one-step action. Less friction leads to fewer drop-offs, and higher user completion rates on key actions, such as purchases, form submissions, and other critical 'deal-sealing' actions.
A potential disadvantage of passkeys, however, is that they may not yet be universally supported across all platforms.
The future of login is rapidly changing, with a clear trend towards passwordless solutions. Passkeys represent the next-generation authentication factor and are at the forefront of making passwords obsolete while minimizing the use of traditional 2FA to bring in a much safer, user-friendly experience.
As technology advances, we can expect wider adoption of passkeys and other passwordless technologies across platforms, integrating biometrics and device-based credentials to further enhance security. The ultimate goal is a world where login is effortless yet highly secure, protecting users from breaches and simplifying digital interactions.
