# Password-Eliminating USB Keys Yubico's YubiKey USB Dongles Now Work With Windows 10 By Joey Haar | Published 2018-04-18 | Tech Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/yubikey-usb References: [techcrunch](https://techcrunch.com/2018/04/16/windows-10-will-soon-get-passwordless-logins-with-yubicos-security-key/) & [yubico](https://www.yubico.com/2018/04/new-security-key-fido2/) Strong passwords are important in keeping one's accounts secure from hackers, but remembering dozens of strong passwords is one of the biggest annoyances of modern-day connectivity; thanks to new compatibility with Windows 10, the [YubiKey](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/yubikey-5) USB dongle from Yubico has the potential to eliminate passwords entirely. The USB device provides a secure, universal login for users, and with Windows 10 capability it can apply to a large portion of PC users around the world. Yubico worked with [Microsoft](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/icloud-1) in order to create FIDO2, a new authentication standard that removes passwords in favor of a physical device like the YubiKey USB. Thanks to this development, the USB can serve as a second factor in a [two-factor authentication solution](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mobile-authentication), a strong first factor, or it can be paired with a PIN to let users into the most high-security systems, like financial transactions. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 3.5/10 - Popularity: 46% | Activity: 52% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [Gadgets](https://www.trendhunter.com/gadgets) ## Key Themes ### What Makes This Trend Stand Out - **Passwordless Authentication:** The trend of using physical devices like Yubico's YubiKey USB dongles for authentication, removing the need for passwords. - **FIDO2 Authentication Standard:** The development of a new authentication standard by Yubico and Microsoft that removes passwords in favor of physical devices like the YubiKey USB. - **Two-factor Authentication Solution:** The increased adoption of using the YubiKey USB as a second or strong first factor in two-factor authentication solutions, or in combination with a PIN for high-security systems. ### Sectors Adopting This - **Cybersecurity:** The cybersecurity industry can capitalize on the trend of passwordless authentication by developing and marketing new solutions that are more secure and user-friendly. - **Financial Services:** The financial services industry can take advantage of the YubiKey USB's high-security features to offer safer and more convenient financial transactions to customers. - **Technology:** The technology industry can benefit from the adoption of the FIDO2 authentication standard by developing compatible devices and applications that enhance user experience and security. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Safe Passwordless Management Services](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/passkey-support.md) - [Enhanced Physical Security Keys](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/yubikey-5.md) - [Physical Multi-Factor Security Devices](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/feitian-multipass-k32.md) - [Biometric Sensor Password Authentication](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/passkey.md) - [Physical Password Security Keys](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cryptnox-fido-card.md) - [Password-Free Validation Services](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/passwordless-authentication.md) - [Passwordless Authentication Platforms](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/passwordless-authentication-platform.md) - [Biometric Password Managers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/1password-passkey.md) - [Offline Password Manager Devices](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/atlancube-passwordpocket.md)