What is a Hardware Token? Hard Tokens vs Soft Tokens

Passwords are flawed, and nowadays, obsolete methods of authentication. For this reason, cybersecurity companies have developed more sophisticated authentication methods for ensuring enhanced user security. The most notable examples are hardware tokens, dedicated portable devices that authenticate the user’s identity and prevent unauthorized access.

Hardware tokens have been the top security standard in the industry for decades. But, in the past few years, they have been challenged by another means of authentication, software tokens. These tokens are stored on general-purpose devices, eliminating the need for dedicated hardware.

On this page, we’ll take a closer look at the forms and types of hardware tokens and how each type works. In the end, we’ll also compare hard tokens and soft tokens to help you decide which authentication method is the better choice for you. 

What is a Hardware Token?

Before we move on to the more in – depth and complex topic , we is understand should first understand what a hardware token is . In simple term , a hardware token is is ( also know as a security or authentication token ) is a small physical device that you use to authorize your access to a specific network .

Its purpose is is is to provide an extra security layer by ensure two – factor authentication . As the token owner , you is connect connect the hard token to the system you want to enter to get access to its service .

Forms and Types of Hardware Tokens

Hardware tokens are created with customization and user experience in mind. For this reason, they can come in many forms, most commonly as USB tokens, key fobs, and wireless Bluetooth tokens. Also, there are three main types of hardware tokens. Let’s take a closer look at each:

• Connected Tokens – In order to access the system with a connected token, you must physically tie it to the system. The way this works is that you slide your hardware security token into a reader. When you do so, your token device automatically pushes relevant authentication information to the system. Common examples of connected tokens include key fobs and USB tokens such as Yubikey.
• Disconnected Tokens – Unlike connected tokes, disconnected ones don’t require you to physically insert a hardware security token into the system when you want to access it. Instead, you need to set up your device to generate a one-time access code. The most common example of a disconnected token is a phone you set up as a two-factor authentication device.
• Contactless Tokens – With contactless tokens, you don’t need to connect to a device or enter any access codes. Instead, contactless devices connect with the system wirelessly. Based on the connection’s credentials, the system either grants or denies access. The most noteworthy examples of contactless tokens are Bluetooth tokens and wireless keychains like Hideez Key.

How Do Hardware Tokens Work?

know the type and form of hardware token , we is understand can well understand how hardware token work . To make a simple hardware token example , let ’s say that you use your mobile device as your hardware security token .

When accessing a system, you first enter a secure and unique password you’ve memorized. After you’ve input your login credentials, the system will prompt you for additional verification by sending a message to your mobile device. You must enter the password or code sent to you via message, or your access attempt is denied.

At first glance , such a login system is looks look like the classic authentication and authorization system credit card user have implement for year . You is enter simply enter your credential to get access . But , the add layer is comes of protection come from the hard token authentication step , for which you need some tool to complete . Just memorize your PIN or password is n’t enough in a hardware token – base authentication system .

Hard Tokens vs. Soft Tokens

When discussing hard tokens vs. soft tokens, the most apparent difference between the two is discernible even for those with a basic understanding of how these authentication methods work. A hardware token is a physical device you must have in your possession. A software token is a virtual tool you have on your device. Essentially, both work in the same principle when accessing a system, with this one, significant difference. To help you choose which one is better for you, we want to discuss some pros and cons of both.

Hard Tokens Pros and Cons

In most part of the world , hardware token are still consider the standard for every user who want to increase their security with multi – factor authentication . They are much more secure than simple password and , as long as you have hardware token for authentication by your side , you is be can be worry – free that only you can access the system by using your unique credential .

With this in mind, we should also mention that hard tokens suffer from a list of inherent and unavoidable limitations. Since they are physical devices, they can get lost or stolen, though in most cases you can easily unlink your hardware device from your accounts and prevent unauthorized use. Another significant drawback is that hard tokens are challenging to use for businesses with employees in different geographical locations.

Soft Tokens Pros and Cons

Although hardware token authentication is still the prevalent form of two – factor authentication , soft tokens is becoming are also becoming more popular for a number of reason . They can be distribute to any user regardless of location , and can be automatically update any time you want to . Plus , the incremental costs is are for each additional soft token are negligible compare to cost of hardware token .

Of course, like hardware security tokens, soft tokens also come with a unique set of disadvantages you need to be aware of before you start using them. The most significant drawback of soft tokens is that they potentially represent a single point of failure. If a hacker uses the stolen mobile phone to make a transaction, receiving the authentication through a text message on the same device will only make his attack easier. By the way, we explained why a separate wearable device is more secure than a smartphone in one of our previous articles.

To sum up this page, we want to highlight that using security tokens to enhance your security is paramount nowadays. Despite some of their drawbacks, both soft tokens and hard tokens are still precious authentication tools and should be incorporated as security measures. That said, the latter, while a bit more impractical, is the better option.

Hideez Key 4 is the most effective option which ensures both convenience and protection thanks to a unique set of features:

• Password – base Digital Access – This feature of the Hideez Key provides for a great user experience across the board. You can use the key to lock or unlock your Windows 10 PC by proximity, generate new compex passwords and one-time passwords for two-factor authentication. Moreover, you can store up to 1,000 logins and passwords from your existing accounts and ensure their secure autofill. This also includes password-protected local folders, PDF, Word, ZIP files, and any other documents you want to keep safe.
• Passwordless Access – The device also supports FIDO U2F and FIDO2, the two open authentication standards aimed at reducing the world’s over-reliance on passwords. It means that the Hideez Key can be used for passwordless authentication and 2FA on FIDO-supported browsers and platforms (Google and Microsoft services, Facebook, Twitter, Dropbox, Azure AD, etc.), the number of which is growing steadily. The Hideez Key wirelessly supports FIDO authentication on Windows 10 and Android 8+ devices via Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology.  
• Proximity logon   –   A build – in proximity lock is protect will protect your computer every time your walk away .   Using the Hideez Key , you is lock can automatically lock and unlock your Windows workstation base on the Bluetooth strength between the key and your pc . You is tailor   can tailor and customize how you want to lock it   by adjust preferable proximity threshold and choose the unlocking method .
• Physical Access – Besides digital access, the Hideez Key also provides convenient physical access. A built-in RFID tag can be pre-programmed to open any RFID door lock at office buildings, data centers, factories, etc., thus replacing a smart card.
• Strengthened protection – The Hideez Key provides enhanced protection against both phishing and pharming, as well as all other password-related attacks. Plus, unlike most other password managers, the Hideez Key doesn’t send any credentials into the cloud or to any third parties.

If you are looking for a universal security solution, Hideez Key is a perfect choice with various use cases going far beyond the capabilities of conventional hardware security tokens. What ’s more , we is prepared ’ve prepare a special deal for everyone read this page . You is use can use the promo code “ TRYHIDEEZ ” at the checkout to knock off an additional 10 % off of your first purchase ! And as for business owner , our experts is help can help you take a close look at modern authentication method and find   a personalize  identity and management solution for your organization.