The Benefits of Using Passwordless Logins

The security of IT services has been reduced over the years. This is due to traditional authentication methods like usernames and passwords. While this has been considered the best security strategy for decades, the increased susceptibility to cyber-attacks means it is time to switch lanes. Passwordless authentication is one of the go-to security options in recent times. According to research in 2021, it has positively impacted the security of many companies in the U.S. and Canada. Why is it creating such a buzz?

What is Passwordless Authentication?

Passwordless authentication is a stronger, faster and safer method of granting employees access to a company’s applications and systems without a password. In an organization that adopts passwordless logins, verifying the employee requires adopting a different identification strategy like biometric data. 

More common is the use of tokens or registered devices. Some companies also try to blend single sign-on options, multi-factor authentication and passwordless logins to strengthen their security further and ensure workers get the best experience.

How Does Passwordless Authentication Work?

Passwordless logins adopt a different and safer authentication strategy by showing the world the risks of a password. A user’s unique features like the voice, eyes, face or fingerprints are compared with those listed on a database. As opposed to a password, the numerical data from these peculiar characteristics will be recorded and used for verification when employees require access. 

Another method of passwordless authentication is the use of passcodes. In this case, the system will send a one-time passcode via an SMS to the employee’s mobile device. They fill the login box with this code and wait for a second while the system confirms whether it is right or wrong. 

The Benefits of Passwordless Logins

1. Safeguards Important Information from Phishing and Password Lists

Phishers are cyber-burglars that steal data by setting traps for internet users and tricking them into enabling an attack. They act like a trusted company and often send fake emails requesting their victim’s username and password. When the information has been received, the individual loses essential data and confidential information. Legitimate emails are also exploited in the case of reply-chain phishing.

In other cases, password lists can be used. This is where the attacker tries to use a password that gives them access to a company’s cloud account while hoping that the user manages all services with a single password. 

Solving this problem is best achieved simply by eradicating the need for passwords. Welcoming passwordless authentication will undoubtedly be effective in bolstering a company’s security. 

2. Simple and Safe Signup Processes

Taking minutes to get through a signup process was the norm before people started having contrary opinions. Today it appears that simple and fast signups are in high demand since people seem to have much better things to do. 

While Multi-Factor Authentication ensures the protection of sensitive information, it is time-consuming. Users must enter the passwords, wait for passcodes to be sent to their mobile phone and then confirm their identity using a biometric factor. When you misspell the password, you will ultimately have to start the process all over. 

On the flip side, Passwordless Logins are straightforward, faster and safer. This will take the burdens of MFAs off the employees and create time for other tasks. 

3. Enhanced User Experiences

Passwordless authentication eliminates the need for employees to get stressed about forgotten passwords or misspellings. It offers a seamless user experience since users are free of constant password resets and the frustration of needing to remember them always. 

It is a two-factor authentication method that includes the employee’s device and the employee’s distinctive feature (a face, voice or fingerprint). Verification will require just a single action that doesn’t involve inputting complex passwords. 

4. Reduced Need for IT Support

Most organizations spend hours replying to lost password tickets since most users have difficulty remembering login details. This got worse when strong passwords became essential to mitigate cyberattacks. Users need to use lengthier words, include special characters, and change their passwords now and then.

This has strengthened security but nothing has been done about its burden on employees. Support is always trying to fix accounts closed due to forgotten passwords. All of these can be taken care of simply by eliminating password authentication. Passwordless Logins will reduce the need for IT support and increase overall productivity.

5. Reduced Time Spent on Managing Login Rules

Managing password rules takes a lot of time and human resources. Companies must train employees, manage and document password rules and ensure that everyone complies with the specificity of complex passwords. They must also be within the working capacity of all of the company’s systems. Some organizations spend hours confirming compliance with these rules and reviewing the policies. 

With passwordless authentication, the time spent on password management can be eradicated and used to complete more important tasks.

Get Help Improving Your Authentication Process

Adopting and successfully implementing passwordless logins require an in-depth strategy. However, this can be easily sorted by our professionals at Sound Computers.