Say goodbye to passwords: New web authentication methods

Passwords have been the primary security barrier in the digital world for decades. However, their vulnerability to cyberattacks and the difficulty of managing them have driven the evolution toward safer and more efficient authentication methods. In this article, we explore the technologies replacing traditional passwords, such as Passkeys and biometric authentication, and how these innovations are redefining web security.

Why are passwords becoming obsolete?

The main problem with passwords lies in their management and security. According to Verizon, 80% of security breaches are related to weak or reused passwords. Factors such as phishing, stolen credentials, and brute force attacks have made traditional methods increasingly unreliable.

Some of the biggest challenges of passwords include:

• Difficulty remembering secure combinations.
• Vulnerability to phishing attacks.
• The need for password managers to store them.
• Risk of credential database breaches.

Passkeys: The evolution of secure authentication

One of the most important advances in eliminating passwords is Passkeys. This authentication method, developed by companies like Apple, Google, and Microsoft, allows users to log in without entering a password. Instead, cryptographic keys linked to personal devices are used.

How do Passkeys work?

Passkeys replace traditional passwords with an encrypted key pair:

1. Private key: Stored on the user's device and never shared with servers.
2. Public key: Stored on the website or service and used to verify the user's authenticity.

The authentication process with Passkeys is much safer and resistant to phishing attacks, as the private key is never exposed online. Organizations like FIDO Alliance are promoting the adoption of this technology globally.

Biometric Authentication: security based on unique identity

Another technology replacing passwords is biometric authentication, which uses unique physical characteristics of users to validate their identity. Some of the most common methods include:

• Facial recognition (Apple’s Face ID, Windows Hello).
• Fingerprint scanning..
• Voice authentication and behavioral patterns..

Biometric authentication is highly secure, as it does not require users to remember passwords and is nearly impossible to replicate. However, its implementation must ensure privacy and the secure storage of biometric data.

Passwordless authentication methods

In addition to Passkeys and biometrics, other authentication methods aim to replace passwords:

• Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Combines methods like SMS codes or authenticators such as Google Authenticator.
• Physical security keys: USB or NFC devices like YubiKey.
• Magic Links: Login through email-based one-time links.

How to prepare for a passwordless future?

Companies and users can start adopting these authentication methods to enhance their digital security. Some recommendations include:

• Enabling biometric authentication on compatible devices.
• Using Passkey managers to simplify account access.
• Implementing multi-factor authentication (MFA) for critical services.
• Evaluating physical security key options for added protection.

Secure your access with Cantalupe

The elimination of traditional passwords marks a new era in digital security. At Cantalupewe help businesses and users implement advanced authentication solutions to ensure secure, password-free access.

Contact us and discover how to enhance your company’s security with the latest web authentication technologies!