YubiKey is known as a line of security keys highly recommended by many organizations and prominent brands. Produced by Yubico, this product offers two-factor authentication (U2F), passwordless authentication, and FIDO2 developed by the FIDO Alliance. It is one of the leading solutions that is both convenient and secure for both enterprises and individuals.
YubiKey comes in various designs and different options for connection ports. This article aims to assist you in selecting the YubiKey model that best suits your needs.
1. Choosing Keys Based on Connection Ports
YubiKey security keys are designed with three types of connection ports that are quite popular in the market:
- USB – A:YubiKey 5 NFC , YubiKey 5 Nano, YubiKey BIO, Yubico Security Key NFC
- USB – C:YubiKey 5C NFC , YubiKey 5Ci , YubiKey 5C, YubiKey 5C Nano, YubiKey C BIO, YubiKey Security Key C NFC
- Lightning: YubiKey 5Ci
Depending on the devices using the corresponding account connection port, you will choose the appropriate key type
For computers, prioritize keys with USB – A or USB – C ports, while Lightning is the top choice for iPad/iPhone. To use flexibly on both computers and phones, opt for keys with NFC support. At this point, the connection port will be chosen based on the computer's port, while NFC is used for the phone.
2. Design
All YubiKeys have a small and convenient design. In particular, the YubiKey Nano, smaller than a coin, can be permanently attached to a device without needing to reconnect every time the device is turned on/off, providing flexibility and superior connectivity.
The Yubico YubiKey 5 Nano security key features an incredibly compact design, safeguarding hundreds of different online accounts
3. Investing in Backup Keys
Yubico always advises users to purchase additional backup keys in case the primary key is lost. The design or connection method of the backup key does not necessarily have to match the key you are using; just ensure that it supports the security protocols you need. Two of the preferred backup key lines are:
NFC security keys
NFC security keys can connect to devices wirelessly, meaning you can complete authentication quickly and securely without necessarily plugging in the key. It's essential to note that not all services support NFC security keys. If a regular NFC security key is incompatible with the services you want, consider switching to YubiKey series 5.
YubiKey BIO product line
For backup purposes, YubiKey BIO keys are favored by many meticulous customers because they are secured with the owner's biometric fingerprint.
*Note that this product line does not support NFC
4. Security Keys Support for Apple Devices
Apple has encouraged users to use at least 2 security keys for the company's iCloud accounts. When choosing keys for both iPhone and iPad, keep in mind:
- iPad: At this time, only products supporting Lightning connections will be compatible with the iPad. Yubico Authenticator USB-C ver. 1.7.0 has added support for models running iPadOS 16.1. However, iPad Pro, which lacks Lightning ports or NFC support, is not compatible with Yubico Authenticator.
- iPhone: Models from iPhone 7 and above fully support NFC for use with YubiKeys. NFC on older iPhone models can only work with Apple Pay.
5. Security Keys for Enterprises
YubiKey 5 FIPS keys are primarily chosen for use in high-tech, data-driven companies, or industries managed by government agencies. Currently, the company has the FIPS YubiKey 5 Series (firmware 5.4.3 and above) that supports OpenPGP and FIDO2. With high-security standards, this is a product that is receiving significant attention from enterprises.
We hope that this article will make it easier for you to choose a security key that fits your usage needs!
Source: Yubico
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HPT is a leading provider of YubiKey solutions for businesses
For security solutions and products for businesses, especially protecting business accounts and assets, a reputable supplier will be the top selection criteria:
- HPT with nearly 30 years of experience in the IT industry is an important guarantee of reputation, understands the challenges in information security, and is committed to providing high-quality security solutions
- Experience in cooperating and closely linking with international partners to bring the best solutions, support customers quickly
- With in-depth expertise, a team of experienced staff, HPT has the ability to meet customer requirements in the most flexible way with many suitable options based on the criteria: "Effective - Safe - Professional - Cost-saving"
>>See details about YUBIKEY TWO-FACTOR AUTHENTICATION SOLUTION here