What Is Fast Identity Online (FIDO) and How Does It Work?

 FIDO (Fast Identity Online)

Fast Identity Online (FIDO) is an open standard for online authentication that replaces traditional password-based systems with stronger, more straightforward, and more secure methods. Here’s a detailed explanation:

1. What is FIDO?

• FIDO stands for Fast Identity Online.
• It is developed by the FIDO Alliance, a consortium of tech companies (including Google, Microsoft, PayPal, etc.) focused on creating authentication standards that reduce reliance on passwords.
• The goal: secure, user-friendly, interoperable passwordless authentication across devices and platforms.

2. Why FIDO Exists

• Passwords are vulnerable to phishing, credential stuffing, and data breaches.
• FIDO addresses these issues by using public key cryptography and device-based authentication, making it resistant to common attacks.

3. How FIDO Works

• Public Key Infrastructure (PKI):
• When a user registers with a service, their device creates a key pair:
• Private key: Stored securely on the user’s device.
• Public key: Shared with the service.
• Authentication:
• The service sends a challenge.
• The device signs the challenge with the private key.
• The service verifies the signature using the public key.
• No shared secrets (like passwords) are transmitted, reducing risk.

4. FIDO Protocols

• FIDO UAF (Universal Authentication Framework):
• Passwordless login using biometrics or PIN.
• FIDO U2F (Universal 2nd Factor):
• Adds a physical security key as a second factor.
• FIDO2:
• Combines WebAuthn (a W3C standard for browsers) and CTAP (Client to Authenticator Protocol).
• Enables passwordless authentication across web and mobile.

5. Key Features

• Strong Security: Based on asymmetric cryptography.
• Privacy: No biometric data or private keys leave the device.
• Interoperability: Works across platforms and browsers.
• User Convenience: Supports biometrics, PINs, and hardware tokens.

6. Benefits

• Eliminates password-related risks.
• Reduces phishing and credential theft.
• Improves user experience with faster, easier login.

7. Common Use Cases

• Logging into websites without passwords.
• Multi-factor authentication using security keys.
• Enterprise authentication for employees.