
What is a Passkey?
Passkey
A Passkey is a modern, secure method of user authentication that replaces traditional passwords with cryptographic key pairs. Designed to be phishing-resistant and user-friendly, passkeys allow users to sign into websites and applications using biometric verification (like Face ID or fingerprint), a device PIN, or a security key—without ever having to type or remember a password.
Passkeys are part of the FIDO2 and WebAuthn standards and are backed by major tech companies including Apple, Google, and Microsoft. They offer a safer and more convenient alternative to passwords by eliminating common vulnerabilities such as weak passwords, reuse across sites, and exposure to phishing or credential theft.
Passkeys are stored on a user’s device and are encrypted, making them inaccessible to unauthorized applications or attackers.
How Do Passkeys Work?
A passkey uses a public-private key pair generated during account registration. Here's how it works:
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Registration:
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The user registers with a service (website/app) using a biometric or PIN-based verification.
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A public-private key pair is created. The public key is sent to the service, while the private key stays securely on the user's device.
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Authentication:
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When logging in, the service sends a challenge.
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The user unlocks their device with biometrics or PIN.
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The device signs the challenge with the private key.
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The service verifies the response using the stored public key.
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This process confirms the user's identity without transmitting sensitive secrets across the internet.
Structure of Passkey Authentication Systems
A typical passkey system includes:
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Credential Manager: Manages and stores the passkeys locally or in a secure cloud vault (e.g., iCloud Keychain, Google Password Manager).
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Authenticator: The device or component (e.g., biometric sensor, security key) used to unlock and sign authentication requests.
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Relying Party: The website or application that receives and verifies the passkey-based login.
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FIDO2/WebAuthn APIs: Standards that enable passkey creation, registration, and authentication in supported browsers and apps.
Benefits of Passkeys
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Phishing-Resistant: Cannot be tricked by fake websites because no password is typed or shared.
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Device-Based Security: Private keys never leave the device, reducing risk of theft.
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User Convenience: No need to remember or enter complex passwords.
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Cross-Platform Syncing: Many systems support syncing passkeys across devices through secure cloud services.
Examples of Where Passkeys Are Used
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Apple Devices: Face ID or Touch ID with iCloud-synced passkeys.
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Google Accounts: Passkey logins using Android devices or security keys.
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Passwordless Login for Apps: Increasingly adopted in finance, healthcare, and enterprise platforms.
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