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
| Type | Examples | Compatibility |
|---|---|---|
| Platform authenticator | Face ID, Touch ID, Windows Hello | Built into device |
| Hardware key | YubiKey, Titan Key | USB, NFC, or Bluetooth |
| Cloud-synced | iCloud Keychain, Google Password Manager | Syncs 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
- Sign in to Alpha Platform
- Click your Profile avatar
- Select Security
- Find Passkeys section
Step 2: Add Passkey
- Click Add Passkey
- Choose authenticator type:
- This device - Use built-in biometrics
- Security key - Use hardware key
- Name your passkey (e.g., "MacBook Pro", "YubiKey")
Step 3: Complete Registration
Depending on your device:
Face ID / Touch ID (Apple):
- Prompt appears for biometric
- Use Face ID or Touch ID
- Passkey is registered
Windows Hello:
- Windows security prompt appears
- Use face, fingerprint, or PIN
- Passkey is registered
Hardware Key:
- Insert or tap your security key
- Touch the key when it blinks
- Passkey is registered
You can register multiple passkeys for redundancy (recommended).
Signing In with Passkey
Step 1: Navigate to Login
- Go to your organization's login page
- 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
- Go to Profile > Security
- See all registered passkeys:
- Name
- Type
- Last used date
- Creation date
Renaming a Passkey
- Find the passkey in the list
- Click the Edit icon
- Enter new name
- Save changes
Removing a Passkey
- Find the passkey to remove
- Click Remove or trash icon
- Confirm removal
Ensure you have another sign-in method before removing all passkeys.
Security Best Practices
Recommended Setup
For optimal security and convenience:
- Primary device passkey - Face ID/Touch ID on your main device
- Backup passkey - Hardware security key stored safely
- Secondary device - Passkey on another personal device
Hardware Key Recommendations
For hardware security keys:
| Key | Features | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| YubiKey 5 | USB-A/C, NFC, multiple protocols | $45-70 |
| YubiKey 5C Nano | Ultra-small USB-C | $55 |
| Google Titan | USB-A/C, Bluetooth | $30-35 |
Lost Device Procedure
If you lose a device with a passkey:
- Sign in using alternative method
- Go to Profile > Security
- Remove the lost device's passkey
- Remotely wipe device if possible
Troubleshooting
Passkey Not Working
Common issues and solutions:
- Browser outdated - Update to latest version
- Biometrics disabled - Enable Face ID/Touch ID in system settings
- Platform not supported - Try different device or browser
"No Passkeys Found"
If sign-in shows no passkeys:
- Ensure you're on the correct account
- Check if passkey is registered for this site
- Try different device with registered passkey
- Fall back to email/password
Hardware Key Issues
For hardware key problems:
- Not detected - Try different USB port
- NFC not working - Hold key closer to device
- Key unresponsive - May need firmware update
Browser Support
| Browser | Version | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chrome | 108+ | Full support |
| Safari | 16+ | Full support |
| Firefox | 122+ | Full support |
| Edge | 108+ | Full support |