What Are Passkeys and How to Create Them

·

In an era where digital security is more critical than ever, passkeys have emerged as a revolutionary solution to traditional password-based authentication. Platforms like OKX now support Fast Identity Online (FIDO) passkeys for two-factor authentication (2FA), offering users a seamless, password-free, and code-free verification experience. This advancement not only simplifies login processes but also delivers one of the strongest layers of account protection available today.

Passkeys eliminate the risks associated with weak or reused passwords and phishing attacks by replacing them with cryptographic key pairs stored securely on your device. Backed by the FIDO Alliance standards, this technology enables fast, secure, and user-friendly identity verification across websites and apps.

Preparing to Set Up Your Passkey

Before creating a passkey, ensure your devices and browsers meet the necessary requirements. Compatibility is essential for a smooth setup process.

Supported Devices

You can create a passkey using any of the following:

👉 Discover how easy it is to secure your digital identity with next-gen authentication tools.

Supported Browsers

To use passkeys effectively, you must access your account through a FIDO-compatible browser. The following options are currently supported:

Using an updated browser ensures full functionality during registration and authentication. Older versions may not recognize FIDO protocols, leading to failed setup attempts.

How to Set Up a Passkey for Your Account

Setting up a passkey is straightforward and designed to be completed in just a few minutes. Follow these steps to enhance your account security with modern authentication.

Step 1: Verify Your Identity

  1. Go to the OKX homepage and click on your profile icon in the top-right corner.
  2. Select Security Center from the dropdown menu.
  3. On the new page, locate the Passkey option and click Set Up next to it.
  4. Click Add Passkey, then select Enable.
  5. You'll need to verify your identity before proceeding. Choose a secure method—such as SMS, email, or existing 2FA—to complete this step.

This initial verification confirms that you’re the legitimate account holder and prevents unauthorized changes.

Step 2: Create Your Passkey

Once identity verification is complete, you can create your passkey using one of three convenient methods.

Option 1: Create a Passkey on This Device

Use your current device to generate and store the passkey locally:

This method is ideal for users who primarily access their accounts from a single trusted device.

Option 2: Use Another Device (Mobile or Tablet)

If you want to link a smartphone or tablet as your authentication device:

Make sure your mobile device runs iOS 16.0.0+ or Android 7.0+.
  1. Select Phone or Tablet.
  2. Use your mobile device’s built-in camera to scan the QR code displayed in your browser.
  3. Confirm the connection by approving the prompt on your phone or tablet.
  4. Complete the authentication process using biometrics or device passcode.

This cross-device approach adds flexibility, allowing you to approve logins remotely while maintaining strong security.

👉 Secure your crypto journey with advanced login protection—no passwords needed.

Option 3: Use a Physical USB Security Key

For maximum security, especially for high-value accounts:

This hardware-based method ensures that even if your device is compromised, attackers cannot access your account without the physical key.

Step 3: Manage and Use Your Passkey

After successful creation, you’ll be able to view all registered passkeys in your Security Center. Each entry includes details such as device name, creation date, and status.

You can assign custom names (e.g., “My iPhone” or “Work Laptop”) to easily identify each passkey—especially useful if you manage multiple devices.

When logging in or performing sensitive actions, simply choose Passkey as your verification method. Depending on your setup, you’ll authenticate via:

No codes, no passwords—just fast, secure access.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I register more than one passkey?

Yes, you can link up to 10 passkeys to a single account. Each device can only be registered once, but you can name each passkey for easier identification across different devices.

What happens during an account review?

During manual review processes, certain security functions—including adding, resetting, or deleting passkeys—are temporarily disabled. These restrictions typically last up to 24 hours. Additionally, after changing your authentication method, withdrawal and C2C sell functions are locked for 24 hours to protect your assets.

Why can’t I use facial recognition during setup?

If facial recognition fails, check your lighting conditions—avoid overly bright or dark environments. Also, note that there’s a daily limit on failed attempts. If you’ve reached the maximum tries, wait before retrying. For persistent issues, contact customer support for assistance.

Are passkeys safer than traditional 2FA?

Absolutely. Unlike SMS or authenticator apps, passkeys are immune to phishing, SIM-swapping, and man-in-the-middle attacks. They use public-key cryptography and are bound to specific services, making them far more secure than time-based one-time passwords (TOTP).

Can I use passkeys without internet access?

While initial registration requires an internet connection, some USB security keys allow authentication offline. However, login attempts still require network connectivity to reach the service provider’s servers.

What should I do if I lose my passkey device?

If you lose a device with a registered passkey:

Always maintain at least two registered authentication methods to avoid lockout.

Final Thoughts

Passkeys represent the future of digital identity—offering stronger security, greater convenience, and reduced reliance on passwords. By leveraging FIDO standards and device-native authentication, platforms like OKX are leading the shift toward safer online experiences.

Whether you're protecting cryptocurrency assets or simply streamlining daily logins, adopting passkeys is a smart move toward modern cybersecurity hygiene.

👉 Start using passwordless login today and experience faster, safer access to your digital world.