Password Free Is Coming

Passwords have been the bedrock of digital security for as long as I can remember.  However, they are often insecure, frustrating to manage, and are growing outdated.  Lost passwords to weak "Password123" combinations, logins are a pain and potential risk for businesses.  However, there is hope:  password-free authentication is here.

Password Problems

• Security Risks - Weak and reused passwords are the leading cause of small business breaches.
• Productivity Losses - Resetting passwords or searching for credentials can cost time and money
• Complexity - Managing multiple passwords across devices and apps is often a nightmare

What is Password Free, and How Does it Work?

Examples of password free solutions include Biometric Authentication, where a user signs in with facial recognition or their finger print.  If you have a smart phone, likely you have been using one of those options to sign in for years. 

Single Sign On (SSO) is another option that has become increasingly popular.  The ability to access multiple applications with one secure login reduces friction and the need for frequent IT intervention.

Finally, Token based authentication, where the end user is asked to provide an authentication code from an app like Authy or texted / emailed a single use code without the use of traditional passwords.  You may have noticed a recent increase in the usage of tokens, frequently with healthcare and banking.

How Does This Benefit My Small Business?

• Stronger Security - Unique Biometrics and Tokens are harder to hack
• Productivity - Spending less time looking for logins and more time working
• Lowered IT Cost - Fewer passwords = less password reset overhead

How Do I Get Started?

First, evaluate your current setup, focusing on whether current apps and systems support a password-less option.  Once you've made that determination, research the best solution for your team, company, or industry.  Set up a pilot group (a handful of users from different teams or departments) to test any solutions you come up with.  After a successful testing period, take the lessons learned and train your team on best practices for these new methods.

Passwords are becoming a relic of the past.  Embracing password-free authentication will streamline operations, give you better security, and give your employees a smoother digital experience.  The future is coming, don't get left behind.

Need help evaluating and developing password-free solutions for your business?  I'm here to help.  Feel free to shoot me an email at aaron@flworkplace.com or grab a slot on my calendar for a free consultation!

Cheers!

Aaron