Alpha Docs
Authentication

Passkey

WebAuthn and Passkey authentication for enhanced security

Passkey Authentication

Use biometrics or hardware security keys for the most secure and convenient sign-in.

Overview

Passkeys are a modern, passwordless authentication method using WebAuthn technology. They provide:

  • Phishing-resistant - Cannot be stolen through fake websites
  • No passwords - Nothing to remember or type
  • Fast sign-in - Use Face ID, Touch ID, or Windows Hello
  • Device-bound - Credentials stay on your device

Supported Passkey Types

TypeExamplesCompatibility
Platform authenticatorFace ID, Touch ID, Windows HelloBuilt into device
Hardware keyYubiKey, Titan KeyUSB, NFC, or Bluetooth
Cloud-syncediCloud Keychain, Google Password ManagerSyncs across devices

Setting Up a Passkey

Prerequisites

  • Modern browser (Chrome 108+, Safari 16+, Firefox 122+)
  • Device with biometric or PIN capability
  • Existing Alpha account

Step 1: Navigate to Security Settings

  1. Sign in to Alpha Platform
  2. Click your Profile avatar
  3. Select Security
  4. Find Passkeys section

Step 2: Add Passkey

  1. Click Add Passkey
  2. Choose authenticator type:
    • This device - Use built-in biometrics
    • Security key - Use hardware key
  3. Name your passkey (e.g., "MacBook Pro", "YubiKey")

Step 3: Complete Registration

Depending on your device:

Face ID / Touch ID (Apple):

  1. Prompt appears for biometric
  2. Use Face ID or Touch ID
  3. Passkey is registered

Windows Hello:

  1. Windows security prompt appears
  2. Use face, fingerprint, or PIN
  3. Passkey is registered

Hardware Key:

  1. Insert or tap your security key
  2. Touch the key when it blinks
  3. Passkey is registered

You can register multiple passkeys for redundancy (recommended).

Signing In with Passkey

Step 1: Navigate to Login

  1. Go to your organization's login page
  2. Click Sign in with Passkey

Step 2: Select Passkey

Your browser shows available passkeys:

  • Recently used passkeys appear first
  • Select the appropriate account
  • Or insert your hardware key

Step 3: Authenticate

Complete the biometric or PIN:

  • Look at camera (Face ID)
  • Place finger on sensor (Touch ID)
  • Enter Windows Hello PIN
  • Touch hardware key

Step 4: Access Granted

  • Instant sign-in upon verification
  • No password required
  • Session established

Managing Passkeys

Viewing Registered Passkeys

  1. Go to Profile > Security
  2. See all registered passkeys:
    • Name
    • Type
    • Last used date
    • Creation date

Renaming a Passkey

  1. Find the passkey in the list
  2. Click the Edit icon
  3. Enter new name
  4. Save changes

Removing a Passkey

  1. Find the passkey to remove
  2. Click Remove or trash icon
  3. Confirm removal

Ensure you have another sign-in method before removing all passkeys.

Security Best Practices

For optimal security and convenience:

  1. Primary device passkey - Face ID/Touch ID on your main device
  2. Backup passkey - Hardware security key stored safely
  3. Secondary device - Passkey on another personal device

Hardware Key Recommendations

For hardware security keys:

KeyFeaturesPrice Range
YubiKey 5USB-A/C, NFC, multiple protocols$45-70
YubiKey 5C NanoUltra-small USB-C$55
Google TitanUSB-A/C, Bluetooth$30-35

Lost Device Procedure

If you lose a device with a passkey:

  1. Sign in using alternative method
  2. Go to Profile > Security
  3. Remove the lost device's passkey
  4. Remotely wipe device if possible

Troubleshooting

Passkey Not Working

Common issues and solutions:

  1. Browser outdated - Update to latest version
  2. Biometrics disabled - Enable Face ID/Touch ID in system settings
  3. Platform not supported - Try different device or browser

"No Passkeys Found"

If sign-in shows no passkeys:

  1. Ensure you're on the correct account
  2. Check if passkey is registered for this site
  3. Try different device with registered passkey
  4. Fall back to email/password

Hardware Key Issues

For hardware key problems:

  1. Not detected - Try different USB port
  2. NFC not working - Hold key closer to device
  3. Key unresponsive - May need firmware update

Browser Support

BrowserVersionNotes
Chrome108+Full support
Safari16+Full support
Firefox122+Full support
Edge108+Full support

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