YubiKey offline settings :: YubiOn Portal Guide (2024)

FAQs

How does YubiKey work offline? ›

Unlike SMS codes and mobile push authentication, YubiKeys do not require a cellular connection to operate. In fact, they don't even require batteries or have any other external dependency. Simply plug the key into a USB port on your device and touch to authenticate.

All the places/applications you'll be required to use your YubiKey will be unavailable without internet access, so you would already need internet access before needing your YubiKey.

The YubiKey supports two methods for Challenge-Response: HMAC-SHA1 and Yubico OTP. HMAC-SHA1 takes a string as a challenge and returns a response created by hashing the string with a stored secret. Yubico OTP takes a challenge and returns a Yubico OTP code based on it encrypted with a stored AES key.

The Yubikey 4 introduces a new touch feature¹that enables a second layer of protection when using a private key stored on the device. The access will be conditioned by a user physically triggering the touch sensor, which detracts malware issuing command on the Yubikey without user knowledge.

The versatile YubiKey requires no software installation or battery so just plug it into a USB port and touch the button, or tap-n-go using NFC for secure authentication.

A Yubikey will essentially last forever, and if you stay clear of the insanity that is Passkeys its Webauthn element can support an infinite number of websites.

However, as the YubiKey does need to be plugged into a mobile device to function, it adds more friction to the user flow - but this can be a positive when using a feature which requires a longer session, such as a PIV smart card. Pros: Supported on all mobile platforms. Ideal for longer authentication sessions.

Do I need to keep my yubikey plugged in all the time? A. No, you only need to insert your yubikey when you are prompted to do so during login. Leaving it plugged in could result in the yubikey being lost or damaged.

So, in short: yes, YubiKey FIDO2 is phishing resistant. Check out this blog on how FIDO2 prevents phishing for an even deeper dive into the topic.

What if YubiKey stops working? ›

Check to see if the YubiKey's LED is lit - if not, the YubiKey may not be receiving power. The issue may be as simple as the YubiKey is inserted upside down for USB-A connectors. Alternatively, the USB port may not be functioning correctly - if that is the case, try on a different USB port or computer.

The YubiKey 5, the most widely used hardware token for two-factor authentication based on the FIDO standard, contains a cryptographic flaw that makes the finger-sized device vulnerable to cloning when an attacker gains temporary physical access to it, researchers said Tuesday.

So, what happens if you lose your YubiKey? In that case, you can still use your Authenticator app (phew!). While you can't create a backup YubiKey, you can always contact Yubico to get a replacement key.

YubiKeys and Security Keys:

Eliminate the need to reach for your phone to open an app, or memorizing and typing in a code—simply touch the YubiKey to verify and you're in. Are trusted—You don't need to use the YubiKey every time you log in. Once an app or service is verified, it can stay verified.

Many services suggest or require the use of a PIN. It is recommended that you set up a PIN before you add services to your YubiKey.

The YubiKey implements the HMAC-based one-time password algorithm (HOTP) and the time-based one-time password algorithm (TOTP), and identifies itself as a keyboard that delivers the one-time password over the USB HID protocol.

Offline authentication allows users to securely login to Windows and RDP services with MFA, even if their computer is not connected to the internet. This means that second-factor credentials can always be provided to ensure that logins are properly authenticated, without needing to rely on a steady internet connection.

No, you only need to insert your yubikey when you are prompted to do so during login.

If you lose your Yubikey, you can still use your phone authenticator app, but you cannot create a backup Yubikey. However, Yubikey also provides methods to recover your account, so you can get a replacement. An advantage to Yubikey is that it comes on a USB that cannot be identified.