Passwords have long been an excellent way for windows users to secure their devices. But with the surge in cyber attacks and an increasing number of passwords one needs to remember, change is needed.
To solve this problem, windows bring you the Windows Hello feature that eliminates the need for passwords when accessing your device. Instead, you unlock your accounts using your face, a 4-digit pin, or fingerprint.
It’s not just a new way of doing things; it is a secure and fast way of logging into your device, bypassing the need to input a password each time. That means more protection for sensitive data. To companies, this comes as a huge relief.
If you are wondering what it’s all about and if it can benefit your company, read on to find out:
What is Windows Hello for Business?
Windows Hello for Business is a tool designed to provide enhanced security for your device by utilizing biometric authentication or a PIN. It enables users to access their devices using fingerprint, facial, and iris recognition.
Determining the most secure login option between face, iris, fingerprint, password, or PIN logins requires carefully analyzing their security features. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) of Windows Hello Business is employed to ensure adequate device security.
While Windows Hello and Windows Hello for Business may sound similar, Windows Hello for Business offers additional security measures. Therefore, it’s used for on-premise and cloud resources, including Hybrid Azure Active Directory-joined and Azure Active Directory-joined devices. Additionally, this tool can be used on domain-joined devices such as a company intranet.
How the Windows Hello for Business Works
The first phase of using Windows Hello for Business is the device registration process with an identity provider (IDP). An IDP is a service that stores and manages your digital identity. For instance, when you use a Google account to log in to a third-party website, Google serves as the identity provider.
Different deployment options for Windows Hello for Business have various identity providers. On-premise deployments typically use Active Directory Federation Services (AD FS) as their identity provider, while Azure Active Directory is the identity provider for cloud and hybrid deployments.
Once the device is registered with the identity provider, you can set up Windows Hello for Business. During this process, you should choose the ideal method of unlocking your device, such as using biometrics or a PIN.
Once the setup is complete, log in to your device using the preferred method, and the selected identity provider will verify your identity each time you log in.
Windows Hello vs. Windows Hello for Business
Windows Hello is intended for individuals and home users. However, for enterprises and organizations, Microsoft offers a more robust solution called Windows Hello for Business. Therefore, Windows Hello for Business increases efficiency and work security.
Here is a comparison table that highlights the main differences between Windows Hello and Windows Hello for Business:
| Feature | Windows Hello | Windows Hello for Business |
| Sign-in | The user creates biometric gestures and PINs. | Sign-in options are configured using mobile device management and group policies. |
| Authentication | Convenience PINs lack a certificate or asymmetric authentication. | Certificate and key-based authentication is used. |
| Security | Reduce phishing and keyloggers possibility. | It’s more secure than Windows Hello. |
Windows Hello for Business configures sign-in and authentication processes through MDM mobile device management or Group Policy. That ensures the devices meet the organization’s security requirements.
When it comes to authentication, Windows Hello for Business typically uses certificate or key-based channel, which is more secure than the convenient PIN used in Windows Hello. With this configuration, credentials are stored and protected by the device’s TPM and not transmitted to the server or network during authentication.
Finally, while Windows Hello is an excellent feature for individuals and home users, Windows Hello for Business provides organizations with enhanced security and greater control over device management.
Benefits of Windows Hello for Business
Windows Hello for Business is a secure and easy-to-use alternative to password-based authentication. Besides its superior security, this technology is compatible with various enterprise infrastructures and functions, making it a preferred choice for many organizations.
Some of the advantages of Windows Hello For Business include the following;
Flexible Deployment Options
Windows Hello for Business can be deployed on-premises, in the cloud, or in a hybrid environment that combines both. Depending on the deployment type, different identity providers and 2FA/MFA factors can be used during the initial provisioning of the strong credential.
Reduced IT Burden
Windows Hello for Business replaces passwords in every common situation except for the initial one-time provisioning of the strong credential, reducing the burden of IT help desks. This technology is more secure, scalable, sustainable, and cost-effective, enabling IT teams to focus on more strategic projects.
Certificates and Customizable Configurations
Windows Hello for Business also supports certificate-based authentication and can be managed through Microsoft Intune. With Intune, admins can create organization policies for device enrollment, specify PIN and biometric requirements, and decide whether TPM chips are the onboard essentials.
SSO and Remote Access
Since Windows Hello for Business authenticates users into Active Directory or Azure Active Directory accounts, it supports SSO. The feature enables you to sign into multiple services with a single set of credentials, eliminating the need for repeated login attempts.
Conclusion
Windows Hello for Business provides numerous benefits beyond its advanced security features, making it an excellent choice for organizations seeking a comprehensive authentication solution.
Windows Hello for Business biometric authentication has a multi-factor authentication feature and an extra layer of security for your device. Furthermore, it offers deployment options for on-premise, cloud, and hybrid environments and domain-joined devices.
Are you looking for a Windows access tool that guarantees total security? Try Windows Hello for business because of its ability to unlock your device quickly only with pre-authorized details.
