FIDO2avain

FIDO2avain is a Norwegian term that translates to "FIDO2 key." It refers to a physical security key that uses the FIDO2 protocol for strong authentication. FIDO2 is a set of open standards developed by the FIDO Alliance, designed to provide a more secure and user-friendly alternative to traditional password-based authentication.

FIDO2 keys, often referred to as hardware authenticators, enable passwordless logins or provide an additional layer of security in multi-factor authentication (MFA) setups. They work by creating a unique cryptographic key pair for each service the user registers with. The private key is stored securely on the FIDO2avain itself and never leaves the device, while the public key is registered with the online service. When a user attempts to log in, the service sends a challenge, and the FIDO2avain uses its private key to sign this challenge, proving the user's identity without transmitting any sensitive credentials over the network.

Common types of FIDO2 keys include USB tokens, NFC-enabled devices, and Bluetooth-enabled devices. These keys typically require a physical interaction, such as touching the key or entering a PIN, to authorize a login, thus mitigating risks associated with phishing, credential stuffing, and man-in-the-middle attacks. Many modern web browsers and operating systems support the FIDO2 protocol, allowing for seamless integration with FIDO2avain devices for enhanced online security.