Despite the increasing complexity of passwords, over 17 million login credentials are compromised every day! It's no wonder that many platforms, services, and servers encourage users to set up a second way to authenticate, such as email verification codes, text messages, one-time passwords, or biometric data.

Many users find using 2-Factor Authentication for every account to be a hassle. When you add up the social media platforms, banking and email accounts, messaging applications, crypto wallets, forums, and more, the passwords add up.

Enter Yubico Security Key. The YubiKey by Yubico makes accessing password-protected accounts a breeze. Simply hold the YubiKey up to your phone to enter instead of going through 2-Factor Authentication! Here, we'll get into the specifics about Yubico.

What Sets Yubico Apart

YubiKey is a small USB and RFC authentication key that provides secure access to devices and applications. Developed by Yubico, a Swedish founded company, the device offers a simpler and much more secure way to authenticate and access computers, networks, and online servers. Unlike other forms of authentication, Yubico devices don't require you to memorize, manage or update passwords, nor install authentication apps. 

It's much more effective than standard authentication methods. In the 11 years in existence, there has never been an account takeover from a YubiKey. This is because it's a physical key and requires a human touch that can't be faked or phished. 

The YubiKey is small, durable, crush resistant and waterproof. It has a great design, and in some variations, includes a place to easily put a key-ring. The great thing is, as long as you have it, you can log in to any of your commonly used applications. No more memorizing passwords or dealing with 2FA verification.

Yubico offers a 1-year warranty on products. Additionally, US customers who order two or more keys will receive free shipping! Before purchasing, make sure to see what other Yubico coupon codes you can find to save on your order.

How Does YubiKey Work?

When accessing a computer, simply plugin in the YubiKey to a USB port. You will see a clickable YubiKey field on your screen which can be activated to input your password. You can use your fingerprint right on the YubiKey to unlock your accounts! 

If using a smartphone, simply tap it with the RFC sensor to authenticate access to email servers like Gmail. Yubico is compatible with services like Github, Dropbox, Google, Facebook, Windows and Mac OS. It also supports a variety of security standards, like OTP, Smart Card, OpenPGP, FIDO U2F, and FIDO2.

Yubico provides a helpful online guide that makes setting up and using a new YubiKey super simple. Just select your key, select the service or application you'd like to authenticate for and follow the setup instructions or video.

Security is more important than ever in a world full of phishing attempts, mass data breaches, and identity theft. Whether you're protecting a personal computer, a government server, or simply your email account - YubiKey is a sensible, secure, and easy to use option. Here are the Yubico products available to help you secure your accounts.

Yubico Security Keys

5 Series - Compatible with Lightning keychain, USB-C, USB-A and nano form factors, these are the most feature-rich keys available from Yubico. The YubiKey 5 Series starts at $45 for the YubiKey 5 NFC up to $70 for the YubiKey 5Ci.

Security Key Series - Works reliably, out-of-the-box, with Gmail and Facebook, as well as hundreds other platform. This is the most budget-friendly security key available from Yubico, starting at only $20.

FIPS Series - For the most secure protection - think classified-level government work - these keys comply with the most strict security protocols. The FIPS YubiKey Series starts at $46 for the YubiKey FIPS up to $69 for the YubiKey C Nano FIPS.

Yubico Pros and Cons

-PROS-

• Makes managing multiple online accounts easier
• Provides password protection
• Budget-friendly options
• 1-year warranty

-CONS-

• Shipping not available to some countries
• Some users may experience difficulty in setting up and learning to use

Overall Yubico Review - 4.5/5

YubiKeys from Yubico are a worthy choice for anyone looking for a little more security with their online accounts. They are small and discreet, but provide a wealth of value. Avoid 2-Factor Authentication and secure your passwords with one of the YubiKeys listed above. From budget options up to government-level security, Yubico has a security key for any level of use.