Difference to Passkeys
TSS vs Passkeys comparison. Why threshold signatures offer better crypto security: multi-device, no single point of failure, true self-custody.
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TSS vs Passkeys comparison. Why threshold signatures offer better crypto security: multi-device, no single point of failure, true self-custody.
A passkey is an advanced method for securely storing sensitive data, developed under the FIDO (Fast IDentity Online) Alliance. Initially adopted by Apple, Microsoft, and Google, passkeys are gaining traction as an alternative to traditional passwords.
Passkeys utilize asymmetric cryptography—a private key and public key pair—similar to cryptocurrencies. Keys are generated locally on the user's device using secure hardware modules (TPM or Secure Enclave).
The public key is stored by the application server, while the private key remains on the user's device, protected by biometric authentication.
During authentication:
The server generates a cryptographic challenge
The device signs the challenge with the private key
The server verifies the signature with the stored public key
The private key is never transmitted, maintaining security and privacy.
While passkeys are secure for general authentication, they have critical limitations for cryptocurrency custody:
Although passkey technology is open source, it relies on centralized authentication platforms operated by large corporations. This raises concerns about data collection and transparency.
The authentication process constitutes a single point of failure. A physical attack on the device holding the private key can lead to complete security compromise.
Lack of Multi-Chain Support: Passkeys aren't designed to operate across multiple blockchain networks
Single Signature Mechanism: Insufficient security for high-stakes transactions that benefit from multi-factor authentication
Recognizing these shortcomings, Vultisig developed a solution tailored for cryptocurrency:
Open Source Everything: Transparency through open-source protocols
Multi-Chain Compatibility: Seamless interoperability across blockchain networks
Multi-Factor Authentication: Multiple devices eliminate single points of failure
Single Point of Failure
Yes (one device)
No (distributed across devices)
Multi-Chain
No
Yes (30+ chains)
Self-Custody
Partial (corporate infrastructure)
Full (no third parties)
Device Loss Recovery
Dependent on platform
Threshold redundancy
Open Source
Partial
Fully open source
While passkeys represent progress in general authentication, they don't meet the security requirements for cryptocurrency custody. Vultisig's threshold signature approach provides the multi-factor, multi-chain, fully self-custodial solution that digital assets require.
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