How to Implement Passwordless Authentication

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Written By Laura Scott

A security experts Transmit Security explains, passwordless authentication is a process that involves verifying a person’s identity without using a password. There are various authentication methods, so if you’re wondering how to implement passwordless authentication then read on.

It could also be verification using a unique biometric feature such as the person’s fingerprint or face.

This authentication method reduces security risks for individuals and organisations. As a result, more people seem to be buying into the idea, and it’s expected to become popular in the near future.

Therefore, businesses should start learning about passwordless authentication because it’s the new trend. Here is why passwordless authentication is good for your organisation and how you can easily implement it.

Different Types of Passwordless Authentication

Almost everyone has used the traditional password authentication process. So, you probably know that this option requires you to enter something you know (the password) to verify your identity.

On the contrary, for passwordless authentication, you need to show that you’re in possession of something that isn’t easily available to everyone. It could be a secondary mobile device or a desktop.

These are some of the common methods used for passwordless authentication:

1. Biometrics

Every individual has some unique biological traits. Therefore, technology takes advantage of this by incorporating a person’s traits into the verification process.

Therefore, an individual can verify their identity using traits such as their face, fingerprint and retina.

2. A One-time Password or Code

One-Time Codes (OTC) or One-Time Passwords (OTP) work like magical links (to be discussed below). All that’s needed is for the user to input a code or password sent to them via an SMS or email.

The code or password is usually auto-generated by the website or page, and the individual has to repeat the process with each new log-in.

3. Magic Links

This is another form of an authentication process that doesn’t require a password. Instead, the user enters their email address into a login box, and an email is sent to them.

The email contains a special link that you have to click for you to log in.

Push Notifications

The user will get a push notification via an authenticator app such as Google Authenticator. The next step is to open the app via the push notification to verify the identity.

What are the Benefits of Using Passwordless Authentication?

Passwordless authentication has many benefits, the main ones being better customer experience and improved security.

Here are some of the benefits you’ll enjoy from implementing the passwordless authentication:
• It offers improved security that reduces the theft risk common with password log-ins.
• Better and improved customer experience because the verification methods are easier to navigate and use.
• Easy management of elements due to the decreased complexity in the identity elements.
• Cuts the extra cost needed for a password-based authentication system, such as IT support and upkeep payments.

How to Use Passwordless Authentication Safely

If you’re considering the idea of incorporating this form of authentication in your organisation, there are several things you should have in mind.

For starters, ensure you review your authentication processes and have an inventory of how people in the organisation use the feature.

Before diving into the idea, ensure you understand the verification methods and their safety and reliability.

You should also conduct a program to test the authentication methods before implementing them. As you do this, have the participants come from different sectors, i.e. they should be from various job roles, age groups and business functions.

Once you’ve tested the methods, listen to the participants’ views to determine the effective passwordless authentication process.

How to Implement Passwordless Authentication: Final Thoughts

It’s no doubt that passwords have become unsafe in recent years. There are increasing cases of passwords being hacked in different organisations.

Companies can eliminate such vulnerabilities with passwordless authentication by implementing unique and secure verification methods.

The adoption of this new authentication method is increasing as more companies are enlightened on its importance.

The method is easier, friendlier and more secure than the traditional verification processes that require a password.

Therefore, if you want to boost your organisation’s security, you should consider passwordless authentication.

Laura Scott