OTP Software and the Rise of Passkey Authentication
In the evolving landscape of digital security, authentication methods are rapidly improving to protect users against identity theft and fraud. One widely used solution is OTP (One-Time Password) software, which offers a layer of security through temporary, time-sensitive codes. However, a new, more seamless method of authentication is gaining traction—passkey authentication, especially as supported by FIDO (Fast Identity Online) Alliance protocols. This shift marks a significant move toward a passwordless future.
What is OTP Software?
OTP software generates temporary codes used to verify a user's identity during login or transaction processes. These codes typically expire within 30 to 60 seconds and are used in conjunction with a username and password. Popular OTP apps include Google Authenticator, Microsoft Authenticator, and Authy.
There are two main types of OTPs:
- TOTP (Time-Based One-Time Passwords): Generated using the current time as a factor.
- HOTP (HMAC-Based One-Time Passwords): Generated based on a counter and a secret key.
OTP software is commonly used for two-factor authentication (2FA), offering a second layer of security. Even if an attacker obtains a user's password, they would still need access to the OTP, typically stored on the user's smartphone.
What is Passkey Authentication?
Passkey authentication is an advanced method that eliminates the need for traditional passwords altogether. Instead of relying on something you know (like a password), it uses something you have (a device) and something you are (biometric data) for authentication. Read what is passkey authentication
A passkey is a pair of cryptographic keys:
- Public Key: Stored on the server.
- Private Key: Stored securely on the user's device.
When you log in to a website or app using a passkey, the service sends a challenge that your device signs with the private key. The server then verifies this signature using the public key. This process proves your identity without revealing any sensitive information that can be intercepted or reused. Read Fido passkey login
FIDO and the Role of Passkeys
The FIDO Alliance has been instrumental in standardizing passkey-based login systems through protocols like WebAuthn and CTAP (Client to Authenticator Protocol). These standards support passwordless logins using devices like smartphones, laptops, and hardware security keys (e.g., YubiKeys).
With FIDO passkey login, users can sign in using built-in platform authenticators like Touch ID, Face ID, or Windows Hello. This form of login is:
- Phishing-resistant: No password means nothing to steal via fake login pages.
- User-friendly: Authentication is as simple as a fingerprint or face scan.
- Cross-platform: Passkeys can sync across Apple, Google, and Microsoft ecosystems.
OTP vs. Passkeys: A New Era
While OTP software is still widely used and effective, it is being gradually replaced by passkey authentication for its superior security and convenience. OTPs can still be phished or intercepted, whereas passkeys are tied directly to the device and cannot be reused or shared.
As technology advances, organizations are encouraged to adopt passkey-based authentication through FIDO-compliant systems to create a safer, passwordless user experience.
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