What is the YubiKey 5 and What is it Used For?

The YubiKey 5 is a hardware security key that provides multiple functions, including:

1. Two-Factor Authentication: The YubiKey 5 supports a range of standards, including One-Time Passwords (OTP), Universal Second Factor (U2F), and WebAuthn, to verify your identity and secure your accounts and data.
2. Encryption: The YubiKey 5 can be used on computers and mobile devices for encrypting files and emails. It supports encryption standards such as OpenPGP and S/MIME.
3. Password Management: The YubiKey 5 is compatible with password managers like LastPass, KeePass, and Dashlane. You can use the YubiKey 5 to log into these password managers without entering your master password.
4. Remote Access: The YubiKey 5 supports protocols like VPN, SSH, and RDP, facilitating remote access to corporate networks or other protected systems.
5. FIDO2/WebAuthn Authentication: The YubiKey 5 is the first hardware security key to support FIDO2 authentication. It supports WebAuthn, a new browser-based authentication standard that allows for more secure login and identity verification.

In summary, the YubiKey 5 is a powerful hardware security key that offers a variety of security functions to enhance the safety of your accounts and data.

What Are the Differences Between the Versions of YubiKey 5?

The YubiKey 5 is available in six different versions: YubiKey 5C Nano, YubiKey 5C, YubiKey 5 Nano, YubiKey 5 NFC, YubiKey 5Ci, and YubiKey 5C NFC.

All six versions have the same functionality; the primary differences lie in their connectors:

• The versions marked with “C” have a USB-C connector, which is the Type-C interface. This type of connector is commonly found on newer desktops, laptops, the latest Android devices, and next-generation iPhones (recommended for newer devices).
• The ones without a “C” have standard USB 2.0 or 3.0 connectors (recommended for older devices and general computer use).
• The version marked with “Ci” features dual connections, offering both a USB-C and a Lightning connector, making it compatible with iPhones 6 through 14.
• The versions labeled with “NFC” include NFC functionality.

The official distinctions are as follows, from left to right: YubiKey 5C Nano, YubiKey 5C, YubiKey 5 Nano, YubiKey 5 NFC, YubiKey 5Ci, YubiKey 5C NFC.