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How do you test cross-device authentication for passkeys?

Vincent Delitz

Vincent

Created: January 8, 2025

Updated: March 21, 2025

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How Do You Test Cross-Device Authentication Scenarios for Passkeys?#

Cross-device authentication is a critical feature of passkeys, ensuring users can seamlessly authenticate across various devices. Here’s how to effectively test cross-device authentication scenarios:

testing cross device authentication passkeys

1. Cover Common Use Cases#

  • Mobile to Desktop: Test scenarios where a passkey created on a mobile device is used to log in on a desktop browser.
  • Desktop to Mobile: Verify authentication using a passkey created on a desktop for access on a mobile device.
  • Platform-Specific Flows: Test transitions between platforms, such as Android to macOS or iOS to Windows.

2. Simulate Cross-Device Challenges#

  • QR Code Authentication: Ensure QR codes for cross-device authentication are scanned and processed correctly.
  • Account Linking: Verify that accounts can be seamlessly accessed across devices without requiring re-registration.

3. Test for Compatibility#

  • Device Variations: Include a range of devices in your testing matrix, such as older and newer models.
  • Browser Interoperability: Ensure passkeys work across all major browsers on each device type.
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4. Validate Fallback Mechanisms#

  • Unavailable Passkeys: Test scenarios where a passkey is unavailable on the current device and ensure users can fall back to other authentication methods.
  • Alternative Flows: Verify the smooth execution of fallback options, such as OTPs or passwords.

5. Address Security Considerations#

  • Data Integrity: Ensure that cross-device authentication protects user credentials and does not expose sensitive data.
  • Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) Attacks: Test for potential vulnerabilities during cross-device communication.

6. Usability Testing#

  • Clear Instructions: Check that users are guided effectively through cross-device authentication processes.
  • Error Feedback: Verify that errors are communicated clearly, helping users resolve issues quickly.

By rigorously testing these scenarios, you can deliver a robust and seamless cross-device authentication experience for passkey users.

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