As cybersecurity threats continue to rise, traditional passwords are no longer enough to protect sensitive accounts and data. Traditional two-factor authentication (2FA) methods like SMS codes or authenticator apps were once considered strong defences, modern cyber threats have exposed their weaknesses. Attackers have learned how to intercept SMS, phish OTP codes, and even hijack authentication tokens. To counter these threats, organizations are moving beyond 2FA and adopting advanced methods like WebAuthn and hardware-backed security keys. WebAuthn, a modern web authentication standard developed by the FIDO Alliance and W3C, enables passwordless login using strong public-key cryptography. When paired with hardware security keys like YubiKey or SoloKey, WebAuthn offers a highly secure, phishing-resistant solution for user authentication.
In this blog post, we’ll explain what WebAuthn is, how hardware security keys work, and how they enhance security for SSH and privileged access environments.
Why go beyond traditional 2FA?
Using 2FA with SMS or OTP apps is definitely safer than just a password, but it still has problems. That’s why many companies move to stronger methods. Here’s why:
1. SMS/OTP Weaknesses
- SMS interception: Attackers can hijack text messages via SIM swapping or network exploits.
- Phishing attacks: Users may still hand over OTPs to fake sites.
- Malware keyloggers: Can capture both credentials and OTPs.
2. User Experience Problems
- Entering OTP codes slows down workflows.
- If users lose their phone or access to the authenticator app, they can get locked out.
3. Scalability & Compliance
- Enterprises handling sensitive data (finance, healthcare, government) face stricter compliance requirements (e.g.PCI DSS, HIPAA, NIST) that demand stronger authentication than basic OTPs.
4. Advanced Threats
- Modern cyberattacks use man-in-the-middle (MitM) and phishing kits that can bypass traditional OTP-based 2FA.
Introducing WebAuthn
WebAuthn was introduced at a time when passwords were failing, 2FA was being bypassed, and both users and companies needed a secure, phishing-resistant, and easy login system
What is WebAuthn?
WebAuthn (Web Authentication API) is a W3C standard that enables passwordless, phishing-resistant authentication on the web. Supported by all major browsers and platforms, it allows users to authenticate with: – Biometric devices (fingerprint readers, Face ID). – Hardware tokens (like YubiKey, SoloKey, or Google Titan). – Trusted platform modules (TPMs) built into laptops and mobile devices.
Key Benefits of WebAuthn
1. Phishing-Resistant – Credentials are tied to specific websites; attackers can’t trick users into giving up codes.
2. Passwordless Option – Eliminates password fatigue by supporting biometric or key-only logins.
3. Public Key Cryptography – Private keys never leave the device, reducing theft risks.
4. Seamless User Experience – One touch or biometric scan is faster than typing an OTP.
5. Cross-Platform Support – Works across modern browsers and operating systems with no extra plugins.
What are Hardware Security Keys and How does it work?
Hardware Security Keys are small physical devices that help you log in securely without using passwords. They use cryptographic keys to verify your identity, making accounts phishing-resistant and easy to access.
Examples: YubiKey, Google Titan, Feitian, and SoloKeys.
How it works?
- The key plugs into a USB port or tap it (USB, NFC or Bluetooth).
- When prompted, the user taps the key to confirm their identity.
- The key signs the authentication request using a private key stored in secure hardware.
Advantages of using Hardware security keys
- Phishing-Resistant – Authentication is domain-bound, meaning keys cannot be tricked into signing for fake sites.
- Strong Compliance Alignment – Meets NIST SP 800-63 and FIDO2 requirements.
- Durability & Portability – Users can carry them like regular keys.
- Offline Authentication – Works without network reliance (unlike SMS).
- Multi-Protocol Support – Many keys (like YubiKey) also support OTP, OpenPGP, PIV, and legacy systems, making them highly versatile.
YubiKey and WebAuthn
YubiKey is a type of hardware security key that supports WebAuthn, the modern web authentication standard. It fully supports WebAuthn and FIDO2 protocols, making it one of the strongest phishing-resistant authentication devices available today.
Why YubiKey Stands Out?
- Multi-Protocol Compatibility: Supports WebAuthn/FIDO2, U2F, OTP, PIV (smart card), and OpenPGP.
- Wide Application Support: Works with SSH gateways, VPNs, cloud providers (AWS, GCP, Azure), and services like Google, Microsoft, and GitHub.
- Ease of Use: A simple touch or insertion provides secure login with minimal user effort.
- High Adoption: Trusted by enterprises, developers, and security professionals worldwide.
WebAuthn & Hardware Keys for SSH and Privileged Access Management
When managing critical infrastructure like servers, databases, or Kubernetes clusters, compromised credentials can be catastrophic. Integrating WebAuthn and hardware keys with SSH gateways (such as Ezeelogin) can:
- Ensure only verified users gain SSH/RDP access.
- Add phishing-resistant MFA on top of key-based logins.
- Reduce reliance on weak OTP systems.
- Help achieve compliance with frameworks like PCI-DSS, ISO 27001, ISO9001, HIPAA and many more.
Best Practices for Deploying WebAuthn & Hardware Keys
- Adopt a Hybrid Strategy: Support both WebAuthn and hardware keys alongside existing MFA methods to maintain flexibility.
- Enroll Backup Keys: Users should register at least two devices (primary and backup) to prevent lockouts.
- Integrate with Identity Providers: Use SSO and IAM platforms (e.g., Okta, Azure AD, Keycloak) for centralized authentication management.
- Educate Users: Train employees on secure handling of hardware keys, never share or duplicate them.
- Monitor & Audit Authentication Events: Track key usage to detect anomalies and ensure compliance reporting.
- Regular Rotation and Testing: Periodically review hardware devices and re-enroll keys as part of the security lifecycle.
Conclusion
The era of relying solely on passwords or SMS-based 2FA is over. WebAuthn and hardware security keys are shaping a future where authentication is stronger, faster, and resistant to phishing. YubiKey and other hardware keys stand out as trusted, multi-protocol solutions that integrate seamlessly with SSH gateways and enterprise IAM systems.
For organizations managing sensitive infrastructure, adopting these technologies isn’t just about staying ahead of hackers — it’s about building resilience, compliance, and trust.
Ready to secure your SSH access? Discover how tools like Ezeelogin integrate WebAuthn and hardware-backed MFA to protect your critical systems from today’s evolving threats.