Logging in means proving to an online service that you are authorized to use an account. Usually you enter an email address or username and password; the service may then ask for a verification code or another sign-in method. The exact screens and recovery steps depend on the service.
How do I log in?
- Open the official site or app. Use the service’s known address or its official app rather than a link in an unexpected message.
- Enter the account identifier. This is commonly an email address or username. Check that it belongs to the account you intend to use.
- Enter the password. A password manager can help create and use strong, unique passwords; CISA recommends using one alongside strong passwords in its password guidance.
- Complete any additional check. If the service asks for a code or security key, use a method you previously configured.
- Wait for the service to finish. A successful sign-in may return you to the page or app you were trying to access.
Some services use federated sign-in: you authenticate with an identity provider, then return to the destination service. For example, NIST’s iEdison guide describes signing in through Login.gov and requires the email address on the Login.gov account to match the address on the iEdison account. That is a requirement for this particular flow, not a general rule for all accounts: NIST’s iEdison sign-in guide.
Why is it asking me for a verification code?
A verification step is often part of multi-factor authentication (MFA). MFA asks for evidence from more than one category of factor, rather than merely asking for two passwords. For instance, a password is something you know, while a code from an authenticator app or a physical security key is a separate method of proving access. CISA explains that MFA can help protect an account even if a password is stolen and gives examples such as texted codes and authenticator-app codes in its MFA guidance.
Turn on MFA for important accounts when the service offers it. CISA specifically recommends checking email, banking, healthcare, shopping, and social media accounts. The FTC also explains that security keys use encryption to confirm the key is associated with an account: FTC guidance on two-factor authentication.
#1 Best Overall
- POWERFUL SECURITY KEY: The Security Key C NFC is the essential physical passkey for protecting your digital life from phishing attacks. It ensures only you can access your accounts.
- WORKS WITH 1000+ ACCOUNTS: Compatible with Google, Microsoft, and Apple. A single Security Key C NFC secures 100 of your favorite accounts, including email, password managers, and more.
- FAST & CONVENIENT LOGIN: Plug in your Security Key C NFC via USB-C and tap it, or tap it against your phone (NFC) to authenticate. No batteries, no internet connection, and no extra fees required.
- TRUSTED PASSKEY TECHNOLOGY: Uses the latest passkey standards (FIDO2/WebAuthn & FIDO U2F) but does not support One-Time Passwords. For complex needs, check out the YubiKey 5 Series.
- BUILT TO LAST: Made from tough, waterproof, and crush-resistant materials. Manufactured in Sweden and programmed in the USA with the highest security standards.
Which sign-in method should I choose?
Services offer different combinations of methods, and not every account supports every option. Login.gov’s documentation describes the following choices and their relative security for Login.gov; treat that comparison as specific to its documented options, and check the account you use for its own requirements: NIST’s Login.gov account guide.
| Method | Practical considerations | Security and recovery notes in Login.gov’s guidance |
|---|---|---|
| FIDO security key | A physical authenticator; it does not depend on having your phone. Confirm that your service and device support the key and that it meets the service’s stated standard. | Login.gov describes security keys as offering high protection against phishing and theft. |
| Authenticator app | Generates codes on a device, so you need access to that device when signing in. | Login.gov describes app codes as more secure against phishing, hacking, or interception than calls or texts. |
| Text message or phone call | Convenient if you can receive messages or calls on the registered phone. | Login.gov labels these options less secure than its app and security-key options because of risks such as theft and interception. |
| Backup codes | Useful when another method is unavailable; keep them somewhere secure and accessible to you. | Login.gov describes these as less secure, and each generated code can be used only once. |
Login.gov encourages users to add two authentication methods so a second option is available if the primary method is lost. That is sound recovery planning where a service supports it, but available methods vary by service.
Rank #2
- POWERFUL SECURITY KEY: The YubiKey 5C NFC is the most versatile physical passkey, protecting your digital life from phishing attacks. It ensures only you can access your accounts
- WORKS WITH 1000+ ACCOUNTS: Compatible with popular accounts like Google, Microsoft, and Apple. A single YubiKey 5C NFC secures 100+ of your favorite accounts, including email, password managers, and more
- FAST & CONVENIENT LOGIN: Plug in your YubiKey 5C NFC via USB and tap it, or tap it against your phone (NFC), to authenticate. No batteries, no internet connection, and no extra fees required
- MOST SECURE PASSKEY: Supports FIDO2/WebAuthn, FIDO U2F, Yubico OTP, OATH-TOTP/HOTP, Smart card (PIV), and OpenPGP. That means it’s versatile, working almost anywhere you need it
- PRIMARY & SPARE KEYS: Just like having a spare house key, we recommend buying two YubiKeys - one for daily use and one as a spare. That way you’ll never get locked out of your accounts
What should I do if I can’t log in?
- Check the identifier. Confirm you used the email address or username associated with this account, and look for typing errors.
- Make sure you are on the intended service. Return to the official site or app before entering credentials or recovery information.
- Use the service’s official recovery route. Follow its password-reset or account-recovery flow rather than links from unsolicited messages.
- Try another configured factor. If your phone or key is unavailable, select another method only if the service offers one for your account. Use backup codes only as directed and keep unused codes private.
- Check linked-account details when using federated sign-in. In the NIST iEdison/Login.gov example, the email addresses must match; do not assume that condition applies to other services.
If the service offers no usable recovery method, follow its official support instructions. Do not share a password, one-time code, or backup code with someone claiming to help you sign in.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Security Key : Protect your online accounts against unauthorized access by using FIDO2 and U2F authentication with T110. It's the world's most protective security key that works with windows, Mac OS, Linux as well as Chrome, Firefox, Edge and many other major browsers.
- Certified with the new FIDO2 standard, T110 provides the benefit of fast login and strong protection against phishing, account takeover as well as many other online attactks.
- Works with : Bank of America, Github, Google, Microsoft, DUO, Twitter, Facebook, Dropbox, Apple, ebay, BINANCE, mor and more.
- Fits USB-A port : Insert the T110 security key into the USB-A port of each service and log in conveniently with one touch
- For the driver download and user guide, please visit TrustKey Solutions Home support page.
Rank #4
- POWERFUL SECURITY KEY: The Security Key NFC is the essential physical passkey for protecting your digital life from phishing attacks. It ensures only you can access your accounts.
- WORKS WITH 1000+ ACCOUNTS: Compatible with Google, Microsoft, and Apple. A single Security Key NFC secures 100 of your favorite accounts, including email, password managers, and more.
- FAST & CONVENIENT LOGIN: Plug in your Security Key NFC via USB-A and tap it, or tap it against your phone (NFC) to authenticate. No batteries, no internet connection, and no extra fees required.
- TRUSTED PASSKEY TECHNOLOGY: Uses the latest passkey standards (FIDO2/WebAuthn & FIDO U2F) but does not support One-Time Passwords. For complex needs, check out the YubiKey 5 Series.
- BUILT TO LAST: Made from tough, waterproof, and crush-resistant materials. Manufactured in Sweden and programmed in the USA with the highest security standards.
Rank #3
- POWERFUL SECURITY KEY: The YubiKey 5 NFC is the most versatile physical passkey, protecting your digital life from phishing attacks. It ensures only you can access your accounts
- WORKS WITH 1000+ ACCOUNTS: Compatible with popular accounts like Google, Microsoft, and Apple. A single YubiKey 5 NFC secures 100+ of your favorite accounts, including email, password managers, and more
- FAST & CONVENIENT LOGIN: Plug in your YubiKey 5 NFC via USB and tap it, or tap it against your phone (NFC), to authenticate. No batteries, no internet connection, and no extra fees required
- MOST SECURE PASSKEY: Supports FIDO2/WebAuthn, FIDO U2F, Yubico OTP, OATH-TOTP/HOTP, Smart card (PIV), and OpenPGP. That means it’s versatile, working almost anywhere you need it
- PRIMARY & SPARE KEYS: Just like having a spare house key, we recommend buying two YubiKeys - one for daily use and one as a spare. That way you’ll never get locked out of your accounts
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