The first line of defense to an online account is a username and a password. However, malicious actors sprawling the internet have made the traditional account security combo unreliable and risky per se.
Therefore, SMS-based two-factor authentication (2FA) has been heavily utilized to provide another layer of security. Unfortunately, skilled hackers can still find a way to intercept SMS codes.
To detach account security from the monopoly of software-focused methods, universal second-factor (U2F) authentication was developed. The technology uses open standards under the Fast Identity Online (FIDO) Alliance.
Check out our video explaining what is YubiKey, and its pros and cons.
Table of Contents
The key is available in different shapes and connectivity functionalities. While earlier versions only support physical insertions into USB ports on a host device, the YubiKey five series accommodates connection through near field communication (NFC). NFC allows interaction with the device without physically plugging it into a port. However, the key and the host device must be near each other. From the reviews left by buyers on Amazon and other platforms, it is evident that the key is a must-have for security-conscious internet users. In fact, over 80% of buyers left a five star score for the YubiKey. One of the reviewers recommended the Yubico YubiKey to developers, IT pros, and “security-minded users.” Furthermore, they praised its manufacturer for providing GUI-enabled YubiKey manager for those having a hard time on where to start. Others attributed their happiness to the key’s support for password managers such as LastPass. YubiKey users hail it for ease of use as a smart card and its compliance to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). Unfortunately, not everyone is happy with their hardware key. Although the negative reviews are minimal, some raise valid concerns. Among the main problems is documentation, which isn’t user-friendly. Additionally, a buyer on Amazon notes that the key “is still too complicated for the average consumer, as it’s not exactly a plug and play device.” The process of enjoying world-class security on your online accounts starts with purchasing the hardware piece from a reliable platform. After receiving a key, visit Yubico’s website, and choose your key from the list. Specifying the purchase key from the list helps filter the services where it can be used to provide security. On the services list, select the account you need YubiKey’s hand in boosting its security. Each service is followed by step-by-step instructions on how to connect to the hardware security key. For example Binance lets you use your YubiKey with their cryptocurrency exchange. This means that your YubiKey is required for authentication before approving any transactions. Note however that Yubikey authentication is not supported on Binance’s Apps and mobile websites. YubiKey works with a host of services such as cloud-based systems, password managers, email platforms, social media, gaming developer tools, cryptocurrency platforms, offline computers, among others. Examples of cloud-based systems compatible with the security key include Dropbox, DigiCert PKI Platform, DocuSign. Cryptocurrency platforms that support YubiKey include Binance, Coinbase, Kraken, Bitfinex, and Gemini. Social media platforms with inbuilt support for the hardware key include Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube. For developers and offline computer users, YubiKey is enabled for popular services such as Github and Bitbucket for developers and can be used to login into Mac and Windows computers. The hardware piece is developed in sets, with keys in one batch having additional features than those in previous models. From the reviews, it’s clear the YubiKey hardware security key is effectively guarding users against account takeovers. However, which Yubico YubiKey is best suited for your needs depends on its cluster. The newer the series, the more the features and services it can provide. Despite some users citing complicated documentation, exerting effort to set this up can indeed give that extra layer of security that would keep your accounts safe and give you peace of mind.YubiKey Reviews on Amazon
How to Start Using YubiKey
How to set up your YubiKey on Binance
Examples of YubiKey-Supported Services
Latest YubiKey Series
Conclusion
Related