GitHub Passkey Implementation Analyzed
Tags: passkeys, userexperience, login, cybersecurity
Published: 2023-07-20 13:06:36

This is part 1/X of our ongoing analysis of passkey implementations. We already analyzed [several password managers](https://www.corbado.com/blog/will-passkeys-kill-password-managers) and [Apple's iOS 17](https://www.corbado.com/blog/apple-goes-all-in-with-passkeys).

GitHub's passkey implementation is a benchmark for password-free authentication. It showcases the potential and benefits of passkeys, setting a new standard for others to follow.

**GitHub's Passkey Implementation: A New Standard**

GitHub's passkey implementation has set a new benchmark in the tech industry. Available across major platforms and browsers, including iOS, macOS, Windows, and Android, GitHub's passkey system offers a seamless user experience that streamlines the login process. The implementation of passkeys not only enhances security but also reduces the number of clicks required, resulting in a more efficient user experience.

**The Power of Conditional UI**

One of the standout features of GitHub's passkey implementation is the integration of Conditional UI. This feature leverages the autofill function that passkeys provide, automatically suggesting and pre-filling stored passkeys when users click on the username input field. This eliminates the need for manual credential search or entry, further enhancing user convenience.

**Mobile App Integration**

GitHub's mobile app integration is another noteworthy aspect of its passkey implementation. This functionality allows users to log into their GitHub accounts using passkeys directly through the app, eliminating the need to visit the GitHub website. This feature significantly enhances the user experience, particularly for mobile users.

**Insightful Passkey Properties**

GitHub's passkey system provides insightful properties of the passkeys. These include badges that indicate the browser-operating system combination where the passkey was created and whether it has been synchronized. Additionally, timestamps are provided to indicate the creation and retrieval of the passkey. These features offer users a deeper understanding of their passkey usage and security.

**User Education and Support**

GitHub has made significant efforts to educate users about the concept and benefits of passkeys. Comprehensive descriptions are provided during the passkey creation process, explaining the underlying concept of biometric authentication. This emphasis on user education underscores GitHub's commitment to promoting passwordless authentication.

**Potential Areas for Improvement**

Despite the many benefits of GitHub's passkey implementation, there are areas for improvement. For instance, each time a user attempts to log into the GitHub app, they are directed to a WebView screen, which can make the login experience somewhat tedious. Direct login to the app is currently not possible, indicating potential for enhancing the user experience in the native app.

**Conclusion**

GitHub's passkey implementation is a pioneering step towards password-free authentication. It showcases the potential and benefits of passkeys, setting a new standard for others to follow. However, as with any new technology, there are areas for improvement. As GitHub continues to refine its passkey system, we can expect to see further enhancements in user convenience and security.

For a more detailed exploration of GitHub's passkey implementation and insights into how it compares to other tech giants, visit the [full analysis on our blog](https://www.corbado.com/blog/github-passkeys-best-practices-analysis).