What is FIDO?
A new way to log in securely without passwords — using your smartphone or a security key. Explained in plain language.
What is FIDO (passkeys)?
FIDO is a new way to log in without relying on passwords. You verify your identity with your smartphone's fingerprint/face recognition, or with a dedicated "security key." The login credential created this way is called a "passkey." Major services worldwide — including Apple, Google, and Microsoft — are adopting it.
The FIDO standards are developed and promoted by the industry association FIDO Alliance.
Why FIDO is safe
Fake sites can't fool it
Login only succeeds on the genuine site, so phishing (fake-site) scams simply don't work.
No secret to know or type
Your secret stays well protected, and no person needs to know or enter it.
Easy to log in
Log in instantly with a fingerprint, face, PIN, or touch — nothing long to memorize.
No expertise needed
If you have your everyday smartphone or a security key, you can start right away.
How logging in works
Register once
Register your smartphone or security key with the service one time. A "key that's uniquely yours" is created inside the device.
Verify with fingerprint or face
From then on, just verify with a fingerprint, face, or PIN.
Log in safely
No password is exchanged, so there's no risk of snooping or password reuse.
Smartphone or security key — what's the difference?
FIDO (passkeys) can be used in two main ways. Choose what fits your needs.
Smartphone passkey
Your everyday smartphone becomes the key. Passkeys are tied to your Apple or Google account, so even if you change phones you can carry them over to the new device.
- No extra hardware needed
- Account-linked, so changing phones is no problem
- Great for personal use and everyday web services
Security key
A small dedicated device used over USB or NFC. The key is stored only inside one physical device — the most robust option.
- Works anywhere, independent of the device
- Ideal for shared PCs and high-security environments
- Even if lost, it can't be misused without the PIN
What is a security key?
A security key is a small physical device used for FIDO authentication. With a USB connector, NFC, or a fingerprint sensor, you verify your identity simply by plugging it in or tapping it. YubiOn carries several brands to suit different needs.
A security key requires setting a PIN the first time you use it. Models with a fingerprint sensor also need fingerprint enrollment. See the guides below for setup steps.
It works for PC login too
FIDO (passkeys) isn't just for web services — it can also be used to log in to your PC. With YubiOn FIDO Logon, you can make Windows logon passwordless and multi-factor using passkeys / security keys.
Supported browsers & OSes
You can check the latest support status for passkey (FIDO)-compatible browsers, OSes, and devices on the site below.
Check device support (passkeys.dev)Ready to get started with FIDO?
YubiOn provides FIDO2 authentication products and services together with compatible security keys — all in one place. Feel free to ask us how to choose.