About YubiKeys

YubiKey devices support one-time passwords, public-key encryption and authentication, as well as the Universal 2nd Factor (U2F) and FIDO2 Fast Identity Online protocols. YubiKeys provide standard smart card operations, such as logging on to Windows or sending encrypted emails.

A YubiKey can be used with a Windows Mini Driver, with ActivClient, and with other PIV-compliant middleware. It is protected by a PIN, offering a two-factor authentication model.

Note:

  • If using ActivClient, version 7.2.1 or higher is required to support YubiKey devices. However, ActivClient is not required if you are using the ActivID CMS Client with a Chrome or Edge browser.

  • The current version of ActivID CMS is only compatible with YubiKey 4 FIPS, YubiKey 5 or YubiKey 5 FIPS.

  • YubiKey devices issued by CMS use compressed certificates, which are not supported currently by the YubiKey Minidriver. As a result, for the time being, it is not possible to use the YubiKey Minidriver with a YubiKey device issued using CMS.

A YubiKey can be used to secure access to any services that support the OATH Open Authentication-HOTP HMAC-based One-time Password (event) functionality.