In today’s fast-paced world, where you’ve made life so convenient for this generation with technological advancements, you need to keep in mind the times when technology can backstab you with its demerits. With cybercrime on the rise and hacking being a deadly disease in today’s social community, there is a dire need for safety instruments to protect our information and privacy. YubiKey is one of the popular devices that sends a one-time password and verifies the same user with two-factor authentication. It safeguards the user’s login and prevents cyber hacking and other online problems that have increased in today’s text-savvy world. Here we will see about YubiKey alternatives
With multiple social media and online accounts, people have lost track of their passwords. Hence, one must be vigilant while selecting their passwords and most importantly, must use devices that protect the accounts by two factors: authentication. YubiKey is one such genuine authentication purpose app that has become very popular.
There are many alternatives available to YubiKey in the market on all platforms and for all types of devices. People often tend to store valuable files in their cloud or drive. These folders often contain personal and sensitive information. It is best that people use a hardware device commonly available today for protecting their accounts and files. It is easily available on e-commerce sites for reasonable prices.
What is yubikey?
YubiKey is a type of security key that is safer than the SMS-based system of authentication. Thus, they protect you from phishing and other cyber-crimes. YubiKey does not require a battery or network connectivity so it is always on and accessible. YubiKey has a popular alternative that is free and amazing. It goes by the name of Authy. Other similar apps like YubiKey are and OTP, Nitrokey, and Microsoft authenticator. Authy is available on all devices and is an excellent alternative to YubiKey. A hardware security key that is at power with YubiKey is Thetis Fedo and Google Titan security keys. Kensington Verimark is a unique type of security key that uses fingerprinting technology to protect data. These security keys are today’s fashionable equipment that people wear with pride. It has indeed gained high popularity in a very little period of time.
YubiKey Alternatives-
As mentioned above, there are a few security keys that are considered as good as YubiKey. These days the security keys are available in many ways- like USBs, Lightning for Apple users, and even Bluetooth using keys. The most important ones are described briefly below. The Yubico Security Key, which is available for both USB A and USB C ports, has the best combination of compatibility, usability, and security of any key we tested. All these alternatives are almost similar in function and structure to YubiKey. Though all of them have their own advantages and disadvantages.
Alternatives to Yubico YubiKey
- Duo Access.
- Microsoft Azure Active Directory.
- Okta Adaptive Multi-Factor Authentication.
- Imprivata OneSign.
- Secure AUTH Identity Platform.
- Ping Intelligent Identity Platform.
- RSA Adaptive Authentication.
- Bio-key ID Director
Thetis Fido U2F Security key-
The main distinguishing feature of this key is that it can turn the device 360 degrees. This is possible because it has been made of an alloy of aluminium. It is less expensive than other security keys available on the market. The only disadvantages it has are that it is heavier than others and it doesn’t connect to mobile devices.
Google Titan Key-
It has two types of keys- one is a USB type and the other one is a Bluetooth type. The keys are relatively small in size and can be easily attached. It supports mobile devices which is a good inclusion. The disadvantages that are prominent in the Google Titan Key are that it takes time for the Bluetooth to set. It is susceptible to white paint that causes damage to the Bluetooth component.
Thetis BLE U2F Security Key-
This security key is another good alternative to YubiKey. It is made of aluminum alloy that allows complete movement to the device. It supports mobile devices as well. The disadvantage it has is that it needs an application to function on mobile phones.
Kensington Verimark Security key-
This security key is a unique key that is getting quite popular. It has a fingerprint recognizing technology. It is very small and pocket friendly.
However, it cannot be used with mobiles. It is made of a cheap material that easily breaks. Hence, though new and unique, it is not preferred.
Conclusion–
With the advent of these tiny devices that can act as a shield to your life and privacy, life has become so much easier. These are commonly called the lifeline keys or savior keys. With just a simple touch, a lot can happen. This statement is indeed very true. An entire configuration is set up to protect your devices. You don’t need your phone anymore for authentication purposes. This security key will do the needful for you! It stops the online hacking of accounts that took place prevalently earlier. With changing winds, you need to learn to adapt and secure your future. With every invention comes a disadvantage that should be taken care of. It supports biometric login and access to accounts and devices without a password. This is unbelievable yet awesome!
FAQ’s
Q) Which is the safest security key?
A) The best security key that has been preferred and liked by many is Yubico YubiKey 5 NFC. YubiKey Bio is also a favorite.
Q) Can hackers bypass the two-step authentication process?
A) Yes, nowadays it is easy to do so. Therefore, the usage of such hardware devices to safeguard information and data plays a crucial role in today’s world. These security keys are very pocket friendly, safe, and highly protective.
Q) Does your data get lost when you lose your Yubikey?
A) When you lose your YubiKey, you can still continue to use the authenticator app on your phone. This situation will take care of the privacy of your data and won’t cause any damage to your files.
