Yubico Simplifies Smart Card Deployment in the Enterprise

In the enterprise, smart cards simplify login to computers, VPNs, and online applications. Smart cards are also used for digitally signing emails and documents. While smart cards are known for delivering strong authentication, they are not simple to deploy. For example, to use a smart card in an enterprise setting, an admin must install client / driver software on every computer and an external smart card reader is typically required. Fortunately, there is a solution for smart card deployment in the enterprise: the YubiKey.

Since 2015, the YubiKey has supported smart card PIV functionality. This means the YubiKey acts as both a smart card reader and a smart card, and requires no extra hardware. Most recently, we have simplified smart card deployment with the introduction of a YubiKey smart card minidriver. The new YubiKey minidriver enables users to simply self-enroll using the native Windows GUI, and even manage their smart card PIN from Windows Ctrl+Alt+Del. Administrators benefit from the YubiKey minidriver through user provisioning using the Microsoft built-in MMC.

Smart card functionality is one of the five authentication protocols supported by the YubiKey, including Yubico and OATH one time password, FIDO U2F, and Open PGP smart card. With multi-protocol support, the YubiKey is suitable for deployment across the enterprise to secure access to computers, networks, and services.

Yubico enterprise authentication setup diagram

Need assistance to roll out or support your YubiKey deployment across the enterprise? Check out our professional services. We are here to support you.

Talk to our teamTalk to our team

Share this article:


  • FIPS certified vs. FIPS compliant: What’s the real difference?“Is your MFA solution FIPS compliant, or is it certified?”  This is a question we hear a lot, and for good reason. In industries where security and compliance are critical (especially in government contracts), understanding the difference between FIPS certified and FIPS compliant isn’t just semantics – it can mean the difference between meeting requirements […]Read moreFIPSNIST
  • 2025 Global State of Authentication survey: A world of difference in cybersecurity habitsIn a world that’s more connected than ever, the landscape of cybersecurity threats is constantly evolving. Bad actors, now supercharged with artificial intelligence (AI), are becoming increasingly adept at exploiting human error through sophisticated phishing and social engineering attacks. This makes robust cybersecurity a universal issue, impacting everyone from individuals to the largest global enterprises. […]Read moreGlobal State of Authenticationsurvey
  • Making digital security a right: Inside Yubico’s Secure it Forward programTechnology can be a great equalizer — but only if the strongest protection is within reach. Since 2022, Yubico has donated more than 65,000 YubiKeys to hundreds of organizations worldwide — a retail value of over $3.3 million. Each key helps strengthen digital protection for those doing vital work in their communities. This isn’t just […]Read more
  • Unlocking trust in enterprise security: Yubico and Okta empowering businesses togetherCollaboration with ecosystem partners is critical for providing our customers with the best cybersecurity solutions. Together, Yubico and Okta have achieved remarkable milestones over the years, including launching innovative solutions and aligning our go-to-market efforts – all aimed at delivering the most impactful cybersecurity solutions and user experience for our customers and partners. At the heart […]Read moreOktaOktane