Passwordless Authentication: a Win-Win for IAM

Introduction

Passwordless authentication is all the rage these days among different security experts, but what is it, and can it make your users’ experience safer? We invite you to read this primer on this new authentication methodology, how it works, and what benefits it may provide your user base.

What is Passwordless Authentication?

Passwordless authentication is a modern approach to user authentication that eliminates the need for traditional passwords. Instead of relying on users remembering and entering complex passwords, passwordless authentication uses alternative methods to verify a user's identity and grant them access to accounts and systems. This approach aims to improve security, user experience, and authentication efficiency.

Passwordless authentication can enable a higher level of assurance for users without requiring them to remember complex passwords. With a passwordless authentication policy, users can sign in with only a username and a one-time passcode delivered over text message (SMS), push notification, or email. It’s easier for users to provide a fingerprint or speak into a microphone than to remember and keep track of passwords. 

The best part is that the authentication process is done behind the scenes, and the users are unaware it’s happening. Ping Identity, ForgeRock, and Okta are technology vendors that provide passwordless solutions via different authentication methods, such as email magic links, one-time passcodes, and FIDO2 (biometrics, passkeys, and security keys).

How does Passwordless Authentication work?

The specific mechanism may vary depending on the chosen approach, but below is a general overview of how passwordless authentication typically works:

1. User Enrollment: users must enroll in the passwordless authentication system by setting up their account. During this process, they link their identity to an authentication method, such as a mobile device, biometrics (fingerprint or facial recognition), a security key, or an email address.
2. Authentication Request: when users attempt to access a protected resource or log in to an application or service, they provide their username or identifier (such as an email address).
3. Authentication Method Verification: the system identifies the user based on their provided identifier and prompts them to complete the authentication using their chosen passwordless method. The method selected during enrollment will dictate the verification process, for example:
   • Biometric Authentication: the system will request a fingerprint scan, facial recognition, or another biometric scan. The device's hardware or software compares the provided biometric data with the stored biometric template to grant access.
   • One-Time Password (OTP): the system sends a unique, time-sensitive code to the user's registered mobile device or email. The user then enters this code as part of the login process.
   • Authentication Tokens: for methods like security keys or mobile apps generating time-based codes, the user must present the appropriate token. Security keys are typically inserted into a USB port or connected via NFC, while mobile apps generate codes that must be entered.
   • Email Magic Links: the user receives an email containing a special link. Clicking the link directly authenticates the user without requiring a password.
   • Device-based Authentication: trust is established based on the user's device, with the system verifying the device's unique characteristics or secure hardware components.
4. Identity Verification: the system validates the user's identity using the chosen method. This often involves comparing biometric data, verifying OTPs, or confirming the presence of a security key.
5. Access Granted: if the identity verification is successful, the system grants access to the user's account or the requested resource. The user is logged in without the need for a traditional password.
6. Session Management: to maintain security, the system manages user sessions and implements security controls, such as session timeouts or device-based trust mechanisms.

Issues Solved by Passwordless Authentication

Passwordless authentication is aimed directly at addressing convenience and security in the digital age, addressing the following issues associated with traditional password-based systems:

• Password Fatigue: Users often struggle to remember multiple passwords, leading to weak or reused passwords.
• Phishing and Credential Theft: Passwords can be stolen through phishing attacks or data breaches.
• Account Lockouts: Forgotten passwords and multiple failed login attempts can result in account lockouts, causing frustration for users.
• Inefficient Authentication: Password-based authentication can be time-consuming, especially on mobile devices with on-screen keyboards.
• Security Weaknesses: Passwords can be easily cracked through brute force attacks, dictionary attacks, or social engineering.

Benefits of Passwordless Authentication

Passwordless authentication offers several advantages over traditional methods for your users and business. Some of the key benefits obtained from implementing a passwordless authentication methodology include:

• Improved Security: Passwords can be easily stolen, guessed, or forgotten. Passwordless methods are typically more secure, involving biometrics or cryptographic keys that are harder to compromise.
• Enhanced User Experience: Users no longer need to remember and manage complex passwords, leading to a more seamless and user-friendly authentication process.
• Reduced Password-Related Issues: Passwordless authentication eliminates common password-related problems like forgotten passwords, password reuse, and phishing attacks that target passwords.
• Cost Savings: Organizations can reduce support costs related to password resets and account lockouts and enhance security without expensive hardware or software.
• Scalability: Passwordless methods can be easily scaled across various platforms and devices, making it suitable for modern multi-device and multi-platform usage.

Conclusion

To recap, passwordless authentication is a modern and secure approach to user verification that enhances security and user experience while addressing common issues associated with traditional password-based systems. It leverages various methods to grant access without passwords, making it a promising solution for today's digital landscape.

Identity Fusion partners with leading organizations across the United States, offering invaluable expertise in steering them through the complexities and subtleties of establishing a resilient IAM framework. This empowers them to fortify their security posture and enhance operational efficiency.  Reach out to us today to elevate your organization's performance.