Features Comparison

A brief comparison between the YubiKey and alternative technologies for identification and authentication. The YubiKey supports 21 of 22 security, usability and cost related features listed.

In scenarios where the YubiKey is not available or the users do not have access to a USB port, several customers have implemented SMS authentication as a back-up.

Features	YubiKey Standard	YubiKey OATH- HOTP	Display OTP tokens	Smart card + reader	Mobile phone SMS	Mobile phone software	OTP scratch cards
Security
Guaranteed token singularity	YES	YES	YES	YES	YES	NO	NO
Accurate time sequenced login	YES	NO	NO	YES	NO	NO	NO
Trojan- and virus protection	YES	YES	YES	YES	YES	VARIES	YES
Challenge-response client software	YES	NO	NO	YES	NO	NO	NO
Usability
Automatic entry of OTP	YES	YES	NO	YES	NO	NO	NO
Platform/browser independent	YES	YES	YES	NO	YES	NO	YES
Fits in wallet or key-chain	YES	YES	VARIES	NO	N/A	N/A	YES
Automatic entry of identification	YES	YES	NO	YES	NO	NO	NO
Works without USB-port	NO	NO	YES	NO	YES	YES	YES
Automatic OTP synchronization	YES	NO	NO	YES	NO	NO	NO
For users with sight disabilities	YES	YES	NO	YES	NO	NO	NO
Optional long static password	YES	NO	NO	YES	NO	NO	NO
Optional RFID functionality	YES	YES	VARIES	VARIES	VARIES	VARIES	NO
Optional dual identities	YES	YES	NO	YES	NO	NO	NO
Cost
Free open source server software	YES	YES	NO	VARIES	NO	NO	NO
Zero client installation	YES	YES	YES	NO	YES	NO	YES
Battery free	YES	YES	NO	YES	NO	NO	YES
Ship with standard mail	YES	YES	VARIES	NO	N/A	N/A	YES
NO mobile phone operator cost	YES	YES	YES	YES	NO	YES	YES
Crush and impact resistant	YES	YES	NO	NO	NO	NO	NO
Waterproof and hermetical	YES	YES	NO	NO	NO	NO	VARIES
High speed personalization	YES	YES	NO	NO	NO	NO	YES

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Features Comparison