This video explains passkeys as a secure and convenient alternative to passwords. It differentiates passkeys from passwords and passphrases, detailing how passkeys utilize public key cryptography for authentication. The video aims to simplify the concept of passkeys and their implementation.
Passkeys vs. Passwords/Passphrases: Passkeys differ significantly from traditional passwords and passphrases. Passwords are single words or character strings, while passphrases use multiple words. Passkeys leverage public-key cryptography for a more secure and automated login process.
Public Key Cryptography: Passkeys utilize public and private key pairs. The public key is accessible to the service, while the private key remains securely stored on the user's device. Encryption and decryption are only possible using the corresponding keys.
Passkey Setup and Usage: Setting up passkeys involves generating a key pair; the public key is stored by the service, and the private key is securely stored on the user's device (OS, password manager, or hardware key). Using a passkey requires unlocking the device; this process is transparent to the user.
Security Advantages: Passkeys are more secure than passwords because they are resistant to data breaches, phishing, malware, keyloggers, and password reuse. Compromising a passkey requires physical access to the device and bypassing its security measures.
Passkeys and Two-Factor Authentication: Passkeys are not the same as two-factor authentication. Two-factor authentication might be needed initially to set up a passkey on a new device, but passkeys replace passwords for future logins on that device.
