BIO-key Unveils New FIDO Security Keys

BIO-key is entering the security key market with the release of a full lineup of cryptographic hardware tokens. The appropriately named FIDO-keys were built to be compliant with the FIDO Alliance’s FIDO2 and FIDO U2F authentication protocols, and provide organizations and individuals with a slew of options based on their particular security needs.

In that regard, the FIDO-key portfolio includes an NFC key, a Nano USB-A key, and several different USB-C keys, one of which supports the use of fingerprint biometrics (that would be the BIO USB-C key). The other USB-C keys are a Nano USB-C key, an NFC USB-C key, and a Lightning USB-C key for iOS devices.

All of the FIDO-keys offer support for both FIDO U2F and FIDO2, and are compatible with BIO-key’s PortalGuard Identity-as-a-Service platform. The BIO USB-C, meanwhile, is additionally compliant with the FIPS 140-2 standard for biometric authentication. Those using the biometric option can store their template locally on the device itself.

Like other security keys, the FIDO-keys help guard against phishing, and eliminate the security threat associated with passwords. They can be used as part of a Multi-factor Authentication or Single Sign On program, or to initiate a password reset in situations in which a password has been compromised. The FIDO-keys can also be used when logging into the Windows 10 and Azure platforms, or with any website or app that already supports the FIDO2 protocol.

“Customers want choices, not limitations, when implementing multi-factor authentication for their workforce and consumer users,” said BIO-key Chairman and CEO Michael DePasquale. “Adding FIDO2 security keys to our solutions set expands the breadth of strong authentication methods we make available to our customers, providing them a competitively-priced alternative to single-choice hardware vendors.”

While BIO-key has spent much of the past year focusing on its PortalGuard platform, it has introduced new hardware offerings in the past few months. The company released a new mobile Point-of-Sale terminal in August, and followed that with the launch of an updated EcoID USB fingerprint scanner. BIO-key also picked up a 2021 Technology Innovation Award with its contactless PalmPositive solution.

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September 27, 2021 – by Eric Weiss