Series

Hardware Security Keys

The guide to YubiKey and hardware security keys — what they are, how to set one up for 2FA/SSH/passwordless login, device comparisons, alternatives, and how they stack up against passkeys.

Part 1

What Is a YubiKey? Security Keys Explained

A YubiKey is a small hardware device that proves who you are with a single touch. Here's how its phishing resistance actually works, how it compares to authenticator apps and passkeys, and which accounts are worth the €25–€70.

Part 2

How to Set Up a YubiKey: 2FA and SSH

You have the key, now what? A walkthrough for registering GitHub and Google 2FA plus a real FIDO2 SSH login (ssh-keygen -t ed25519-sk), in the order that keeps you from locking yourself out.

Part 3

YubiKey 5 Series: Which Model Do You Need?

Six similarly-named YubiKey SKUs, no obvious pick. Three questions narrow it to one model, with real current pricing and the Bio Series distinction most comparison articles get wrong.

Part 4

YubiKey Alternatives Worth Considering

YubiKey isn't the only hardware security key worth buying. Honest tradeoffs and real pricing for Google Titan, Nitrokey 3, Feitian ePass, OnlyKey, and Thetis Pro — and which one actually fits your setup.

Part 5

Passkey vs Security Key: Which to Use?

Passkeys and hardware security keys use the same FIDO2 standard but solve different problems. What device-bound vs synced passkeys mean, where a physical key still matters, and the setup that covers both.

Part 6

Best Hardware Security Key: A Decision Guide

Every 'best security key' list names the same products in the same order. This one matches your devices, protocols, and budget to a real answer instead — including a cheaper Yubico line most guides skip.

Part 7

YubiKey and Hardware Security Keys: The Guide

A hardware security key stops phishing in a way SMS codes and authenticator apps can't. Start here to find out if you need one, then jump straight to the guide that matches your situation.