Passkey Error Fixing: A Guide for Devs and Users
Tags: cybersecurity, webdev, authentication, passkeys
Published: 2023-11-17 08:00:00

## Introduction to Passkeys

Passkeys are swiftly becoming a norm for secure and streamlined user authentication, with major players like [Amazon](https://www.corbado.com/blog/amazon-passkeys-launch), [WhatsApp](https://www.corbado.com/blog/whatsapp-passkeys), [Coinbase](https://www.corbado.com/blog/coinbase-passkey), and [TikTok](https://www.corbado.com/blog/tiktok-passkeys)a lready adopting this technology. As this technology emerges, users often encounter new types of errors like "**there are no matching passkeys**" or "**passkeys not working**", which can vary as many relying parties have their unique error messages​​.


**_[Read the full passkey troubleshooting guide here](https://www.corbado.com/blog/passkey-troubleshooting-solutions)_**


## How Passkeys Work

[Passkeys](https://www.corbado.com/glossary/passkey) mark a significant advance in [passwordless authentication](https://www.corbado.com/glossary/passwordless-authentication), leveraging the [WebAuthn](https://www.corbado.com/glossary/webauthn) API. They are underpinned by public key cryptography principles, aligning with the standards set by the FIDO Alliance and the W3C​​.

## Key Requirements for Passkeys

To effectively use passkeys, there are specific requirements that must be met across different platforms. For example, iOS and macOS devices need certain version updates and appropriate settings enabled to support passkey usage. Similarly, on Windows and Android devices, there are version prerequisites and configuration settings that are crucial for passkey functionality. These requirements ensure that the devices can securely generate, store, and use the cryptographic keys necessary for passkey authentication. Understanding these requirements is key to ensuring a smooth and secure user experience with passkeys.

## Common Passkey Errors and Solutions

Users often encounter errors like "there are no matching passkeys" or "passkeys not working" when using passkeys. For instance, the "no matching passkeys" error typically occurs if the user's device lacks the required passkey or faces synchronization issues. To resolve these, users should check device compatibility, ensure that passkeys are properly synchronized across devices, and verify that all software is up to date. These solutions are crucial for enhancing the user experience with passkeys, providing a smooth transition to this advanced authentication technology and bolstering user confidence in its reliability and security.

## Conclusion: Enhancing User Confidence in Passkeys

Passkeys are transforming the digital landscape towards enhanced security and user-friendliness. The ability to troubleshoot common errors is vital for boosting user confidence and encouraging wider adoption of this technology​​.

_For a more in-depth exploration of passkey troubleshooting, [read the full article here](https://www.corbado.com/blog/passkey-troubleshooting-solutions) and to stay current with all updates related to passkeys, including error handling, join our [passkeys community](https://join.slack.com/t/corbado/shared_invite/zt-1b7867yz8-V~Xr~ngmSGbt7IA~g16ZsQ) on Slack or subscribe to our [passkeys Substack](https://passkeys.substack.com/)._