What is WebAuthn?

Understanding WebAuthn

WebAuthn (Web Authentication) represents a significant advancement in online authentication by enabling websites to offer strong, phishing-resistant authentication without passwords. It leverages public key cryptography instead of shared secrets, with private keys stored securely on user devices rather than on potentially vulnerable servers. When users register with a WebAuthn-enabled site, their device generates a unique public-private key pair for that specific site. During authentication, the site challenges the device to prove possession of the private key, which never leaves the user's device. This approach prevents credential theft through server breaches, phishing, or password reuse. The standard supports various authenticator types, from dedicated security keys to built-in platform authenticators like Windows Hello or Touch ID. Organizations implementing WebAuthn typically see dramatic reductions in account takeovers while improving user experience by eliminating password frustrations. Implementation challenges include providing account recovery options when authenticators are lost, ensuring cross-platform compatibility, and managing the transition from legacy authentication methods.