Computer login tools (2024)

  • A range of computer login choices for organizations and individuals

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    Secure Windows with strong authentication

    Windows offers multiple login options. Read below to see which one applies to you.

    Computer login tools (1)

    Local accounts

    If your user account is local and not managed by Entra ID, you can add a layer of protection beyond passwords with the YubiKey.

    Before installing the Yubico Login for Windows software, please make a note of your Windows username and password. If you do not have your UN/PW, you will not be able to log in once Yubico Login for Windows has been installed. Secure local accounts now:

    Note: Yubico Login for Windows secures Windows 10 and 11 if not managed by Entra ID. Yubico Login for Windows is only compatible with machines built on the x86 architecture. It is not compatible with Windows on Arm (ARM32, ARM64) based machines.

    *customer will require a YubiKey from the 5 Series for it to function with Yubico Login for Windows.

    Computer login tools (2)

    Entra ID – Going passwordless

    If your user account is managed by Entra ID, you can secure your computer with passwordless login with a YubiKey without needing to install any software.

    Computer login tools (3)

    Entra ID – Smart Card functionality

    If your laptop/desktop (Windows 11 or later) or your Windows Server (2022 and later) is joined to Entra ID, you can use a YubiKey for login using the Smart Card functionality.

    Computer login tools (4)

    Microsoft accounts

    Your Microsoft Account can be configured to usestrong authenticationusing the YubiKey to websites that support Microsoft Account sign-in.

    Secure Macs with strong authentication

    The YubiKey offers smart card authentication for Macs. Read below to learn more.

    Computer login tools (5)

    Secure Mac login

    If you need to secure your Mac you can use a YubiKey for login using the Smart Card functionality.

Computer login tools (2024)

FAQs

Can I use YubiKey to login? ›

Thousands of companies and millions of end-users use YubiKey to simplify and secure logins to computers, internet services, and mobile apps.

Can you use a YubiKey for Windows login? ›

Yubico Login for Windows is only compatible with machines built on the x86 architecture. It is not compatible with Windows on Arm (ARM32, ARM64) based machines. *customer will require a YubiKey from the 5 Series for it to function with Yubico Login for Windows.

Is a YubiKey worth it? ›

Premium features, premium price

The Yubico YubiKey 5C NFC supports many authentication protocols, so it works anywhere security keys are accepted. If you can make the most of its advanced features, such as signing and encrypting with OpenPGP, it's well worth the price.

Why is YubiKey so expensive? ›

It is costly to design, mould, manufacture, sell and support a hardware product, even something as small as this. Since you don't want your 2FA company to go out of business there is good value in knowing they have a stable business model that can actually support a company rather than just burning capital.

What is the difference between YubiKey and security key? ›

The Security Key Series differs from a YubiKey 5 Series in that it comes only with the FIDO (FIDO2/FIDO U2F) protocol and does not have a serial number. It is only available in USB-A + NFC and USB-C + NFC form factors.

Can YubiKey replace passwords? ›

With these new capabilities, the YubiKey enables the replacement of weak username/password credentials with strong hardware-backed cryptographic key pair credentials.

Why is YubiKey not detected in Windows 10? ›

Check to see if the YubiKey's LED is lit - if not, the YubiKey may not be receiving power. The issue may be as simple as the YubiKey is inserted upside down for USB-A connectors. Alternatively, the USB port may not be functioning correctly - if that is the case, try on a different USB port or computer.

Can I use YubiKey for all my passwords? ›

The YubiKey works with Password Safe to protect your passwords using two-factor authentication (2FA). Both a master password and a YubiKey are needed to enable access to your Password Safe file, which contains the usernames, websites, passwords and other information for all of your online accounts.

Is YubiKey safer than authenticator app? ›

Authenticator apps provide a layer of security and are a convenient option for use by many, but they are still vulnerable to phishing due to the 30-second window. Security keys, like the YubiKey, are considered to be both more convenient and more secure. Yubico also provides a use in conjunction with the YubiKey.

What are the downsides of YubiKey? ›

Loss or Damage: Misplacing or damaging YubiKey can lead to losing access to online accounts. Time-consuming Recovery: Restoring access to accounts in case of YubiKey loss or damage can be time-consuming. Risk of Loss or Theft: Due to its small physical size, losing or having YubiKey stolen can pose a security risk.

Should I leave my YubiKey plugged in all the time? ›

If it's your first time using a YubiKey and you're used to Touch ID, we suggest using the Nano key and leaving it plugged in. If you're working from home, you can leave it plugged in.

Can a YubiKey be hacked? ›

While YubiKey is designed to be secure, it is not immune to attacks. There have been instances where YubiKeys have been hacked or compromised. Common attack vectors on hardware keys include physical attacks, side-channel attacks, and firmware vulnerabilities.

What is the lifespan of a YubiKey? ›

However, considering a YubiKey being used five times a day, 365 days per year, it will take 18 years for the counter to get stuck. Furthermore, as this counter only increment the first time after power up / reset, the practical lifetime is even longer.

Can YubiKey get malware? ›

Yubico's YubiKey is built on a foundation of strong authentication. This robust resistance to phishing offers malware protection because it hinges on the ability to detect these attacks before they take place.

What if someone steals my YubiKey? ›

So, what happens if you lose your YubiKey? In that case, you can still use your Authenticator app (phew!). While you can't create a backup YubiKey, you can always contact Yubico to get a replacement key.

How do I log into Windows with a USB key? ›

Open the Windows Settings app, select Accounts, select Sign-in options, select Security Key, and then select Manage. Insert your security key into the USB port or tap your NFC reader to verify your identity. Select Add from the Security Key PIN area, type and confirm your new security key PIN, and then select OK.

Can you use YubiKey for everything? ›

How it works. A single YubiKey has multiple functions for securing your login to email, online services, apps, computers, and even physical spaces. Use any YubiKey feature, or use them all.

How do I use YubiKey as OTP? ›

Touch triggered OTP
  1. Plug the YubiKey directly into the computer.
  2. Place the text cursor in the field where an OTP needs to be entered.
  3. Touch the gold contact on the YubiKey.
  4. The YubiKey will then automatically enter the OTP into the selected field.

Can I use YubiKey for online banking? ›

The YubiKey is a modern and scalable solution that works without additional software and you can easily register your YubiKey with Novum Bank's online banking systems, without visiting a branch. It is one of the best ways to protect your bank account from cyber threats.

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