Back

Definition
WebAuthn, short for Web Authentication, is a browser-based authentication standard that supports secure passwordless sign-in. It allows websites and apps to verify a user’s identity with public key cryptography through passkeys, biometrics, device PINs, or hardware security keys.

Why it matters
WebAuthn matters because it makes web logins more resistant to phishing, credential theft, and password reuse. It gives websites a standard way to support stronger authentication while making sign-in faster and easier for users across supported browsers and devices.

Example use case
A user signs in to a website with a passkey stored on their laptop or phone. The browser uses WebAuthn to confirm the user through a fingerprint, face scan, or device PIN, then securely authenticates them without sending a password.