The End of Passwords? What Passkeys Mean for Business Security

Passkeys vs Passwords: SMB Security’s First Defense 

Modern businesses are falling victim to various cybercrimes. One of the most common reasons for this is because of weak passwords. They are either reused, shared, or stolen. Hence, making them a classic entry point for attacks on SMB networks. That is why the use of passkeys is currently gaining traction as this is a safer alternative than the former method. In the battle of passkeys vs passwords, SMB security is the primary consideration. Hence, many IT leaders ask the core question: What do passkeys mean for SMB security, and how do they compare in the debate over passkeys versus passwords for SMB security? 

Passkeys vs Passwords SMB Security

Here at EB Solution, access control is an important part of having a robust cybersecurity posture. Hence, let us take a look at the difference between passkeys vs passwords, SMB security, and their importance in identity authentication. 

Why Passwords No Longer Work for SMB Security 

The purpose of passwords is to control access. Recently, however, they are becoming a risk rather than preventing it. This is because of the bad habits of most users who continue to use short and predictable passwords. Coupled with ignored policies on password security and phishing, hackers therefore take advantage of this and attack through the weakened gateway. 

What Passkeys Change for the Modern Workplace 

In response to the issues faced from using passwords, passkeys are gaining popularity in use. This eliminates the necessity to type but rather apply secure device-bound credentials. This ensures that the login process is safer and easier. This is because passkeys rely on strong standards like FIDO2 authentication. This removes the need to store secrets on servers. FIDO2 authentication uses cryptography, passkeys, and even biometrics to strengthen identity confirmation. This makes for an easy yet effective means of logging in.

The Role of Biometric Access in Zero-Password Login 

Biometric access is a major part of zero-password login. It is also the reason passkeys work so well. With this, users can login through face or touch ID, Windows Hello, and hardware tokens. Through this zero-password login, the attack surface is significantly reduced and cannot be stolen or broken. Additionally, it also enhances the user experience with quicker logins. This leads to SMB teams accomplishing more work without the hassle of resets or lockouts. 

Why Passkeys Strengthen MFA Evolution 

Aside from the use of biometric access, Multi-Factor Authentication or MFA evolution is also strengthened by FIDO2 authentication. This is because passkeys eliminate weak steps in MFA, making it light, tough, and automatic. Hence, leading companies to enjoy security without complexity. 

Passkeys vs Passwords SMB Security: What Teams Must Consider 

The shift in passwords to passkeys is something that requires proper planning. Businesses need to analyze access policies, devices, as well as user roles. Moreover, IT admins need to trace the placement of passkeys and identify the systems that continue to rely on older methods of logging in. In comparing passkeys vs passwords, the difference lies in the passkeys’ ability to provide stronger protection, strengthened MFA evolution, less risk, and faster access. Furthermore, it also helps decrease help desk load and improve user experience as there is no need to reset or remember passwords.  

Passkey Challenges to Prepare For 

Although the use of passkeys gives promising benefits, changing towards the use of this must be planned as it also comes with challenges such as having systems that are incompatible or lacks FIDO2 support, presence of mixed device environments, as well as unmanageable hardware of remote workers. Moreover, this also needs non-technical training requirements to educate staff on how this is done properly. Considering these gaps will help your business implement this change with less resistance and risk. 

EB Solution Access Control: Guiding SMBs Towards Passkey Adoption 

Here at EB Solution, access control is something we are serious about. Hence, we assist businesses move towards the newest, most convenient and strongest security methods without affecting operations. We collaborate with your IT teams to check systems, map passkey readiness, and revise authentication flows. On top of this, EB Solution access control also continuously develops access control strategies that facilitate long-term expansion. Our process includes: 

• Identification of existing logins. 

• Device and identity audits 

• Zero-password policy design 

• Phased adoption and pilot rollouts. 

• Support and training of all departments. 

Should SMBs Move to Passkeys Today? 

The short answer is yes, but with the correct strategy. This is because passkeys are not supported by all systems despite the majority of modern platforms supporting them now. Here at EB Solution, we can assist your company in creating a safe and easy path to take, should it decide to begin this transition. 

Start your transition by calling us today!