U2Fcapable

U2Fcapable is a term used to describe devices, browsers, or software that support the FIDO Universal 2nd Factor (U2F) authentication protocol. U2F is a security standard that allows users to authenticate to online services using a physical security key, such as a USB token. This protocol enhances security by moving authentication away from passwords and towards a more robust, hardware-based solution.

When a service or platform is U2Fcapable, it means it can register and verify a U2F security key as a second factor of authentication. This typically involves a user registering their security key with the service. During subsequent logins, after entering their password, the user is prompted to insert and activate their U2F key. The key then cryptographically proves the user's identity to the service without transmitting any sensitive information over the network.

Browsers like Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox are U2Fcapable, meaning they can facilitate the U2F authentication process between a website and a security key. Operating systems and specific applications can also be U2Fcapable, expanding the reach of this secure authentication method. The primary benefit of U2Fcapable systems is their defense against phishing attacks, as the security key verifies the origin of the authentication request, preventing credentials from being stolen by malicious websites.