Passwords May Be on the Way Out

Have you ever heard of the concept of going passwordless? Considering how passwords have been central to data security and authentication for so long, you might be a little hesitant about the idea. However, data show that there are better options out there. Here are some of the better passwordless options your organization can implement.

What is Passwordless Authentication?

Passwordless authentication is exactly what it sounds like: authentication without a password. Think of it like two-factor authentication, minus the password entry. Rather than using a password, this credential is omitted in favor of a secondary factor, like a hardware token, biometric, or code generated and sent to a secondary device or email.

But Why Eliminate Passwords?

Let's consider a few options that businesses have in terms of their cybersecurity:

• Use a password
• Use a password and supplement it with 2FA
• Use a passwordless authentication system

Passwords are objectively not a great security option simply because people cannot remember multiple complex passwords. Your IT team will more likely than not become overwhelmed by password request options, and as a result, employees will instead choose to make their lives easier by using simple passwords that undermine your security measures.

Two-factor authentication can remedy this somewhat, but it also adds more friction to the mix with your employees. Going passwordless removes these issues and instead provides an alternative method of authentication that is easier and less taxing on the user.

Today, There are Plenty of Options for Passwordless Authentication

There are some passwordless authentication measures that might make sense to implement, but you also need to keep the drawbacks in mind. If you go the security key route, you might lose the device, leading to a pricey replacement. Cost is also important when figuring out your password authentication measures. Furthermore, some malware attacks are effective against these measures, so whether or not your business will benefit from passwordless authentication may take some time to decide as you identify the risks versus the rewards.

Horne & Benik can help you determine the best path forward for your business. To learn more, reach out to us at (603) 499-4400.