The rise of passwordless authentication refers to the increasing popularity and adoption of authentication methods that do not rely on traditional passwords. Instead, these methods use alternative forms of authentication such as biometrics, security tokens, or one-time codes sent via SMS or email. One of the main benefits of passwordless authentication is increased security. Traditional passwords can be easily guessed, reused, or stolen. By eliminating the need for a password, passwordless authentication eliminates the risk of password reuse and the associated security vulnerabilities.

Another benefit is improved user experience. Passwordless authentication eliminates the need for users to remember and manage multiple passwords, making the authentication process more convenient. In addition, users are less likely to fall victim to phishing scams, because they don't have to enter a password. Passwordless authentication can help organizations comply with regulations such as GDPR and HIPAA by eliminating the need to store and manage sensitive user information. Another benefit is the ability to use the device and biometric authentication capabilities that users already have. This can improve the authentication process for users and IT administrators by removing the need to purchase and manage additional hardware and software.

On the other hand, passwordless authentication methods may not be supported by all devices, operating systems, and browsers, which can create challenges for users and IT administrators. Also, implementing passwordless authentication methods may require additional hardware or software, which can increase costs for organizations. It's important to note that passwordless authentication should be used in conjunction with other security measures, such as encryption and regular backups, to ensure optimal security.