What is passwordless authentication?

Passwordless authentication is a more secure method of granting access to systems. Typically, it works by verifying something unique to a user or something physical that the individual must possess.

In this article, we explore the types of passwordless authentication, their benefits and limitations, and popular solutions.

Passwordless authentication allows users to access a system without providing a password. Instead, users are authenticated based on other factors, such as biometrics, magic links, hardware tokens, and more.

Companies can gain many benefits from this. It is a more secure way to authenticate users, making companies less susceptible to data breaches. Information technology (IT) departments can also spend less time helping users reset passwords, and individual users can have a better experience gaining access to systems.

Types of passwordless authentication methods

With passwordless authentication, users can typically be verified with something that is unique to them or something physical that only they would have. Below are several examples of how passwordless authentication can be implemented to improve security both on-premises and in the cloud.

• Magic links: This is usually a one-time link that is sent to the user's authenticated email or phone. By clicking on the link, the user will be able to access the application.
• Biometrics: This works by verifying something unique to the user. Common examples include fingerprints, voice prints, and facial scans.
• Hardware tabs: This may include USB devices such as FIDO security keys, phones, smart cards, and near field communication (NFC) devices.
• One Time Passwords (OTP): OTPs are codes that can be sent to a user's verified email or phone and are usually only valid for a short period of time.
• Push notifications: Users who are signed in to an account or system on a standalone device can receive a notification to authorize a new sign-in.

Advantages of Passwordless Authentication vs Disadvantages of Passwordless Authentication

Although more secure, passwordless authentication comes at the cost of more difficult reset processes if users become locked out. Despite that, it is becoming increasingly popular and up to 41% of companies plan to adopt or continue using passwordless authentication in the next one to three years.

Benefits of passwordless authentication

• More secure than password-based systems: Since something unique is required for the user's identity or a physical token, it is more secure than password-based systems. Passwords, by comparison, are more susceptible to things like phishing, keylogging, and brute force attacks.
• Smoother user experience: Eliminating the need to remember passwords makes it easier and faster for users to access systems. It can also be used in conjunction with single sign-on (SSO) so you can use a single set of credentials to access multiple services.
• Reduced need to reset user logins: Many passwordless authentication methods, such as those using biometrics and hardware tokens, do not require the user to remember anything. As a result, you can significantly reduce the need to reset an account due to a forgotten password.

Disadvantages of passwordless authentication

Although it has many benefits, businesses should also examine the disadvantages of switching to passwordless authentication systems. Companies should consider the lifecycle of such a change, such as the initial implementation of any ongoing elements necessary to maintain the system.

• May require more initial training: Users may be less familiar with a passwordless system, something that may require more initial training and support time to use smoothly.
• Higher short-term implementation costs: Companies may incur higher hardware and software costs in the short term to implement a new system.
• More difficult to resolve login issues: The task of resetting a password is simple for a company's IT department. Meanwhile, passwordless systems can be more challenging and costly if a user becomes locked out of their account, as they may require replacement hardware tokens or an alternative method to regain access to the account.

Factors affecting the security of passwordless authentication

Businesses can gain many benefits from a passwordless authentication system. While the adoption rate continues to grow over time, some companies may have difficulty with their implementation for the following reasons.

• Costs to obtain the new system: Although businesses can save money in the long run, the initial upfront cost can negatively impact a business's cash flow.
• Time needed to change: Changing systems can disrupt existing workflows and companies may be hesitant to make changes that could disrupt daily business activities.
• Training resources needed: Depending on the complexity, training may be required for the IT team and other employees to use and troubleshoot the new system correctly.

Popular Passwordless Authentication Solutions

There are many providers of passwordless authentication solutions, and the best one for a business will depend on its unique circumstances. Some solutions, like ManageEngine's ADSelfServicePlus product, can provide one-click access to a wide range of applications, while others, like OneLogin, can evaluate the context and risk of each login before granting access.

Test authentication

Used by large enterprises around the world, Prove Auth provides passwordless, OTP-less authentication for mobile, web, and omnichannel experiences using app push notifications and biometrics. Businesses should speak to the sales team for pricing information.

Trusted access to Thales SafeNet

Enterprises can combine multi-factor authentication (MFA) and SSO capabilities while easily managing user access to a wide range of platforms. Adaptive, push, and pattern-based authentication can be performed, and pricing is customized to each individual company.

ManageEngine ADSelfServicePlus

This allows businesses to simplify logins by enabling one-click SSO access to on-premises and cloud applications. Pricing is free for small businesses with up to 50 users and larger businesses can request a custom quote.

A login

Ideal for startups and midsize businesses, OneLogin can evaluate login details such as device type, time of day, and location. It also offers other features such as SSO and MFA. Package pricing starts at $4 per user each month, depending on features selected.

Factors influencing the price of passwordless authentication solution

The price of a passwordless authentication solution generally depends on the specific features and functions provided. Other factors that can affect price include the number of users, the method and length of subscription, and whether the product has any physical hardware requirements.

Should your organization use a passwordless authentication solution?

Passwordless authentication provides businesses with a more secure way to ensure authorized access to systems. While there may be short-term expenses associated with the change, this can avoid costs that could be incurred as a result of a data breach, each of which is estimated to cost $4 million on average.