Back

Definition
Passwordless authentication is a login method that verifies a user’s identity without requiring them to enter a password. It can use biometrics, passkeys, one-time codes, magic links, or hardware security keys to confirm access securely.

Why it matters
Passwordless authentication matters because passwords are often weak, reused, forgotten, or stolen in phishing attacks. Removing passwords can reduce account takeover risk, improve user experience, and make login flows faster across websites, apps, and enterprise systems.

Example use case
A user opens a banking app and signs in with a fingerprint or device passkey instead of typing a password. The system verifies the user through the trusted device and grants access without exposing reusable login credentials.