How Do Passkeys Work Across Devices?

Passkeys can be used on multiple devices by leveraging cloud syncing services, third-party password managers, or WebAuthn hybrid transport via QR code scanning and Bluetooth. This ensures seamless access across all your devices without compromising security.

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To understand how passkeys work across multiple devices, it's important to explore the different methods that enable this functionality.

One of the most common ways passkeys work across devices is through cloud syncing. Services like iCloud Keychain and Google Password Manager automatically synchronize your passkeys across all your connected devices. This means if you create a passkey on one device, it will be available on others without any additional setup. Cloud syncing is convenient and ensures your passkeys are always accessible, but it relies on the security of the cloud service provider.

Another method involves third-party password managers like 1Password, Dashlane, and Bitwarden. These password managers not only store your passwords but also sync your passkeys across devices. They provide an additional layer of security and flexibility, especially if you use multiple devices across different operating systems. With a third-party password manager, your passkeys are encrypted and can be accessed from any device where the manager is installed.

For devices that do not automatically sync passkeys, hybrid transport methods are available. These include QR code scanning and Bluetooth. For instance, you can generate a QR code on one device and scan it with another to use the same passkey. Alternatively, Bluetooth can be used to transfer passkeys securely between devices. These methods are particularly useful in scenarios where cloud syncing is not possible or preferred. This method is also called Cross-Device Authentication (CDA)

By using a combination of these methods, passkeys can be seamlessly used across multiple devices, enhancing both security and convenience for users.

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