How to Set Up and Use Security Keys for Your Apple ID on an iPhone
Security keys are physical keys that safeguard your Apple ID and all your personal data. When you enable two-factor authentication, you can use these physical keys as your secondary authentication method (your Apple ID password being the first) to replace the verification code your iPhone usually requires to log in.
This ensures no one else can intercept authentication since the key is only in your possession, adding a firm layer of protection for your information. This article will discuss how you may set up and use security keys with your iPhone.
Requirements to Use Security Keys for Your Apple ID
The first thing you’ll need to do is get your hands on the physical security keys that you can use with your iPhone. You will need at least twoFIDO-certified security keyscompatible with Apple devices.
For those who don’t know, the FIDO Alliance is an industry that seeks to standardize authentication and reduce reliance on passwords. The security keys can work over NFC (near-field communication) or a USB-C connection. There are multiple great options, with the likes of YubiKey 5C NFC and YubiKey 5Ci, that Apple recommends.
Once you have your security keys, the next step is to make suretwo-factor authentication is enabled for your Apple IDand your iPhone is running iOS 16.3 or later.
How to Add Security Keys to Your Apple ID
Once you’ve got everything you need, the process from here on out is relatively easy. All you need to do is set up your physical FIDO-certified keys on your iPhone’s settings to begin using them. Here are the steps:
Tap onAdd Security Keys. PressContinue, enter your passcode, and follow the on-screen instructions to add your security keys.
During your prompts, Apple will ask you to sign out of your inactive devices, i.e., ones that haven’t been used in more than 90 days, before you can add your security key. You can add up to a maximum of six security keys on your iPhone.
How to Use Security Keys on Your iPhone
You’ve worked your way through the entire setup, and now it’s time to put your brand-new security keys to use. it’s possible to use them to sign in to your Apple ID on a new device or the web,reset your Apple ID password, and remove or add another security key.
For whatever purpose you want to use it, all you need to do is plug in your security key to your iPhone or take your NFC key and place it at the top of your device.
For example, if you want to log into your Apple account anywhere, you’ll enter your Apple ID username and password as usual. You will then be prompted to plug in or place your security key on the device. Once you do so, you’ll have access to your account.
An Extra Security Layer for Your Apple ID
Hardware security keys are your best bet if you’re looking for extra protection from phishing attacks and scams. Apple introduced this feature alongside iOS 16.3, and it’s a brilliant replacement for the verification code customarily used.
As long as you have two FIDO-certified keys to pair with your device, you can follow this guide to bolster your Apple account’s security. Make sure you don’t lose them anywhere, as that will result in you being permanently locked out of your account, which will be a really big problem.
confirm your Apple ID account is using the latest security measures by upgrading from two-step verification to two-factor authentication.
Don’t let aging hardware force you into buying expensive upgrades.
Your phone’s camera app doesn’t show this, so it’s easy to miss.
It’s not super flashy, but it can help to keep your computer up and running.
Who asked for these upgrades?
Windows is great, but adding this makes it unstoppable.
