EinmalpasswortGeneratoren

EinmalpasswortGeneratoren, often abbreviated as OTP generators, are software or hardware devices that produce a one-time password or token. These codes are used for authentication purposes and are valid for a single login session or transaction. The primary goal of using an OTP generator is to enhance security by mitigating the risk of password reuse and interception. Traditional passwords, if compromised, can be used repeatedly by attackers. One-time passwords, however, expire after a short period or a single use, significantly reducing the window of opportunity for unauthorized access.

OTP generators typically operate based on one of two main principles: time-based one-time password (TOTP) or counter-based one-time password (HOTP). TOTP algorithms generate a new password at regular intervals, usually every 30 or 60 seconds, synchronized between the generator and the authentication server. HOTP algorithms, on the other hand, generate a new password based on a shared counter. Each time a password is used, the counter increments on both the client and the server.

These generators can be implemented as standalone hardware tokens, such as key fobs, or as software applications installed on smartphones or computers. Many financial institutions and online service providers offer OTP generation as part of their security measures, often integrated into their mobile apps or accessible through a separate hardware device. The use of OTP generators is a common component of multi-factor authentication (MFA) strategies, adding an extra layer of security beyond just a password.