WebAuthn is a web standard that enables browsers and applications to use public-key authenticators for strong user authentication. It matters because the browser needs a standardized way to talk to modern authenticators safely and consistently.
What is WebAuthn?
WebAuthn is part of the FIDO2 ecosystem and provides the browser-side interface for registering and using authenticators such as security keys, platform authenticators, and passkeys. It helps web apps adopt stronger authentication without handling reusable passwords directly.
What WebAuthn Commonly Supports
Common uses include passwordless web login, phishing-resistant MFA, passkey support, and hardware-backed browser authentication.
WebAuthn vs. Traditional Password Form Login
Traditional login uses typed reusable secrets. WebAuthn uses cryptographic authenticators through a standard browser interface.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is WebAuthn important?
Because it is a key enabling standard for strong, phishing-resistant authentication on the web.
Does WebAuthn require a hardware key?
Not always. It can also work with built-in platform authenticators and passkeys.
