Secure your Online account with Physical Key

Pushpendra Dwivedi
3 min readJun 7, 2021
Image source: https://theconversation.com

Generally, you have heard about the two-factor authentication method to secure your online account but you can also use the physical key to securely access your account.

You just have to insert the physical key into your device and your account will be opened. Let’s check how this works.

The two-factor authentication method is a recognized way to access online accounts securely as in this method if someone tries to access your account without your permission it will need OTP also along with a username and password to access the account which makes it difficult to hack your account.

In today’s time, most people are using a physical key to log in to their accounts. This key works as a USB dongle that is plugged into the device, So it will allow access to the account only after verifying your identity.

Why Physical Key is considered much secure?

Using a physical key is also better because you are using a physical object instead of a code. With this, there is no possibility of theft by any fraudulent website or app or being activated by any person. Although authentication apps are secure, they can be tracked remotely.

However, this is not the case with physical keys, It is not easy for the physical key to reach you or open an account without obtaining the key from you.
In this, you do not need to open the app or type the code to unlock the device.

Just Plugin and verify your identity and boom, your account is open.

How Physical key works?

A physical key fills in as a reinforcement to your secret key for confirming your character. The correct kind of key can work with your PC and cell phone, through a physical or remote association. Regardless of whether somebody was to find the secret key for one of your records, they wouldn’t have the option to sign in without the actual key. However long the key is free from any and all harm, your private data is secured.

Steps:

  1. Open account security page
  2. Enable the Two Factor Authentication factor.
  3. To add a physical key click on add.
  4. Fill in your account password.
  5. Plug your Physical key after receiving the signal.
  6. Click on Key inserted.
  7. Click on “Key” to make the connection with the physical key.
  8. Name your key a special name so that you can easily remember it.
  9. Now to login into another device you just have to insert your key into the device and click on “Key”.
  10. If the account recognizes your key USB dongle as you verified it, it will open your account.

What to do if you lost your Physical key?

There will also be a question in your mind that if you lose your physical key, then how will you open the account.
There is an option of backup in such a case. There are many types of cases available in the market.
According to the specifications and standards, Fido 2 is considered to be the safest key ever.
It is based on old technology like Universal Second Factor USF. Also, such keys are secure, encrypted, and private. These physical keys can also be used offline.

From where to purchase these keys?

While buying physical keys, make sure to check whether they support Fido 2 standard or not. Surely you would like to get a key that works well with your computer and laptop as well.
However, not all devices and accounts will be able to be opened using this physical key. Whereas some such big apps and services accept this method of authenticators. These include Microsoft Google, Twitter, Dropbox, twitch, etc.

Cheers!

Pushpendra Dwivedi

Digital Advertising Coach & Online Business Consultant

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Pushpendra Dwivedi

A passionate Marketer and experienced digital coach. Well-established record of growing diverse businesses,with experience in managing cross-function channels.