How to use FIDO security keys with your favorite online applications?

FIDO security keys are physical devices that provide secure and convenient authentication for users. They leverage public-key cryptography to verify user identities and offer an additional layer of protection against phishing attacks and password-related vulnerabilities. In this article, we will explain what FIDO security keys are, how they work, and how to use them with some of the most popular online applications.

What are FIDO security keys?

FIDO security keys are based on the FIDO (Fast Identity Online) standards, which are developed by the FIDO Alliance, a consortium of technology companies and organizations that aim to provide simpler and stronger authentication solutions. There are two main types of FIDO standards: FIDO U2F and FIDO2.

• FIDO U2F (Universal 2nd Factor) is a standard that enables two-factor authentication (2FA) using a hardware device that supports the U2F protocol. The device generates a unique cryptographic key pair for each online service and registers the public key with the service. The private key is never shared or stored online. When the user wants to log in to the service, they insert the device into their computer and press a button to authenticate. The device signs a challenge from the service with the private key and sends it back to the service, which verifies it with the public key and grants access.
• FIDO2 is an evolution of FIDO U2F that consists of two components: WebAuthn and CTAP. WebAuthn (Web Authentication) is a web standard that allows web browsers to support passwordless and username-less authentication using public-key cryptography. CTAP (Client to Authenticator Protocol) is a protocol that enables communication between a client (browser or platform) and an external authenticator (such as a FIDO security key). FIDO2 supports three authentication options: passwordless, two-factor, and multi-factor. Passwordless authentication uses a hardware device as the sole factor to log in to a service, eliminating the need for passwords. Two-factor authentication uses a hardware device as an extra layer of protection beyond a password. Multi-factor authentication uses a hardware device and a PIN or biometric to meet high assurance requirements.

How to use FIDO security keys with online applications?

To use FIDO security key with online applications, you need to have a compatible device that supports the FIDO standards, such as a USB, NFC, or Bluetooth security key. You also need to enable the FIDO option in the settings of the online service that you want to use. The exact steps may vary depending on the service and the device, but the general process is as follows:

• Register your FIDO security key with the online service. This usually involves logging in to your account, going to the security settings, and choosing the option to add a FIDO security key. You will be prompted to insert or tap your device and follow the instructions on the screen. The service will generate a unique key pair for your account and device and store the public key on its server. You may need to repeat this step for each service and device that you want to use.
• Use your FIDO security key to log in to the online service. This usually involves entering your username and password (if required), and then inserting or tapping your device when prompted. You may also need to press a button or enter a PIN or biometric on your device to verify your identity. The device will sign a challenge from the service with the private key and send it back to the service, which will verify it with the public key and grant access.

Why Cryptnox Fido 2 Card is the best FIDO security key?

Among the various FIDO security keys available in the market, we recommend the Cryptnox Fido 2 Card as the best one for the following reasons:

• It supports both FIDO U2F and FIDO2 standards, which means it can work with a wide range of online services and authentication options.
• It has a unique form factor: it is a smartcard that can connect to your devices via NFC communication, as well as compatible contact smartcard readers. This makes it very convenient and portable, as you can simply tap it against your phone to authenticate. It also has a sleek and durable design that can fit in your wallet or pocket.
• It is level 1 certified by the FIDO Alliance, which means it meets the security and interoperability requirements of the FIDO2 protocol. It also has a secure element that stores the cryptographic keys and performs the cryptographic operations, ensuring the highest level of protection for your online accounts.
• It can also be used as a FIDO U2F security key for your AppleID account, as well as for Microsoft Windows sign-in. This means you can use the same device to secure your Apple and Microsoft accounts, as well as other online services that support FIDO standards.

The Cryptnox Fido 2 Card is our top pick for the best security key for multi-factor authentication. It is a hardware-based authenticator that supports the FIDO2 standard, which allows for passwordless and username-less login to compatible websites and services.

Conclusion

FIDO security keys are a great way to enhance your online security and convenience. They use public-key cryptography to verify your identity and prevent phishing and password-related attacks. They can work with many online services that support the FIDO standards, such as Google, Facebook, Twitter, Dropbox, Microsoft, and more. They can also offer different authentication options, such as passwordless, two-factor, and multi-factor. Among the various FIDO security keys available, we recommend the Cryptnox Fido 2 Card as the best one, as it supports both FIDO U2F and FIDO2 standards, has a unique and convenient form factor, and is certified by the FIDO Alliance.