Since the advent of multi-user computer systems, passwords have been the authentication method of choice. Enter your username, enter your password, and you are ready to use most systems, services and websites.
However, there’s a catch to this fairly easy method of logging in. While computers can easily create and use cryptographically sound and secure passwords, human psychology and memory are insufficient to generate and remember good passwords.
Consequently, we have seen several attempts to augment or replace passwords. Most have not yet led to widespread adoption, whether it’s SMS, apps or lists of PINs. With passkeys, though, there is a cross-platform, multi-company replacement for passwords on the horizon.
Will passkeys really be a game-changer? Without careful consideration, they might fizzle out like previous attempts. Join me on Forbes to look at three problems and three solutions!